Online search tools are great for saving you time and money when it comes to renewing your car insurance policy. However, it also pays to be aware of the variety of different car insurance policies that are available on the market and the range of sources from which they can come. As well as the mainstream insurance companies, the ones we are used to seeing during advertising breaks on primetime television, banks and building societies such as Santander also offer car insurance policies and many local supermarkets are also creating affordable insurance opportunities for their customers. Searching across a wide range of possibilities will help you to find the best deal for you.

There are a range of different companies that specialise in insurance for specific kinds of motor vehicles, from vans to people carriers. Finding a policy designed for your vehicle could provide you with coverage better tailored to meet your needs.

And then there are insurance policies designed to cater for particular groups of people within the motoring population of Britain. There are insurers who offer cover aimed specifically at learner, new or young drivers. Some insurers are available for women only. Others cater for the over 60s.

There are also insurance companies who are keen to offer other incentives, aside from reasonable premium prices. There are companies that offer discounts on mechanics bills or a free MOT when you join. There are a range of new-customer incentives - from satellite navigation systems to in car MP3 players - available from a variety of companies.

Be sure to weigh up the pros and cons of each policy before making a definitive decision. Remember that online search engines may not always give you the full picture and that it always pays to read the small print.