If you’re researching car insurance FAQs before choosing a policy, you’re in the right place. Buying car insurance in South Africa doesn’t have to be confusing. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or looking for better cover, understanding how claims, premiums, excesses and policy features work can make it much easier to find the right insurance for your needs.
We’ve answered the five most common car insurance FAQs to help you compare your options and make an informed decision.
The good news? Car insurance has evolved. Today, many insurers offer digital tools that make getting a quote, managing your policy and submitting claims much simpler than it used to be.
Below, we answer five of the most common questions South Africans ask when comparing car insurance policies and explain how Oneplan Car & Household Insurance makes the process easier.
Why car insurance matters in South Africa
Thousands of accidents happen on South African roads every year, yet many vehicles remain uninsured or underinsured. Without the right cover, even a minor accident can result in significant repair costs that need to come out of your own pocket.
Having the right car insurance means you’re financially protected when the unexpected happens, giving you greater peace of mind every time you get behind the wheel.
Learn more about car insurance basics.
1. How long does a car insurance claim take?
One of the biggest car insurance FAQs and concerns people have is how quickly they’ll receive help after an accident.
While claim turnaround times depend on the circumstances of each claim and whether all required documentation has been received, providing complete and accurate information from the start can help speed up the process.
To help avoid delays:
- Report the incident as soon as possible.
- Submit all requested supporting documents.
- Upload clear photos where required.
- Keep your claim information up to date.
At Oneplan, claims can be submitted digitally through the Oneplan App, making the process quicker and more convenient.
2. Why doesn’t Oneplan offer 100% vehicle cover?
This is probably one of our most frequently asked questions.
Oneplan offers flexible vehicle cover that allows you to choose between 30% and 95% cover using an easy-to-adjust cover slider.
So why not 100%?
The remaining percentage becomes your self-insured portion, commonly known as your excess.
For example:
- 95% covered by Oneplan
- 5% self-insured by you
This approach gives you greater flexibility over your monthly premium while ensuring you understand exactly how your cover works.
3. Can I lower my monthly premium?
Yes.
One of the features that makes Oneplan different is the ability to adjust your vehicle cover using the Oneplan App.
If your financial situation changes, you can adjust your level of cover within the available range. Generally:
- Higher cover = higher premium
- Lower cover = lower premium
This flexibility allows you to manage your insurance according to your budget instead of being locked into the same premium month after month.
4. How is my premium calculated?
Every driver’s premium is unique because every driver’s risk is different.
Insurers typically consider factors such as:
- Your age
- Your driving history
- The make and model of your vehicle
- Where your vehicle is kept
- How often you drive
- Your claims history
- The level of cover you select
These factors help determine your individual premium, ensuring your cover is tailored to your specific circumstances.
5. Do I still need a vehicle inspection?
With Oneplan, there are no traditional vehicle inspections.
Instead, you can validate your vehicle by uploading photos through the Oneplan App.
The process is simple:
- Log into the Oneplan App.
- Open your Car & Household policy.
- Select your vehicle.
- Upload the required images.
- Submit everything in one session.
Typically, you’ll need photographs of:
- Your vehicle from all four sides
- Registration number
- VIN number
- Licence disc
- Odometer reading
- Engine bay (open bonnet)
Once your validation has been completed successfully, your policy status will reflect Covered – Active.
Important: Vehicle validation forms part of activating your cover. Be sure to complete the process as instructed to avoid delays should you need to submit a claim later.
Why choose Oneplan Car & Household Insurance?
At Oneplan, we’ve designed our insurance around convenience and flexibility.
Some of the benefits include:
- No traditional vehicle inspections
- Easy vehicle validation through the Oneplan App
- Flexible cover levels from 30% to 95%
- Simple digital claims process
- Cover you can adjust to suit your budget
- Quick access to your policy information through the app
Whether you’re insuring your first vehicle or switching insurers, choosing cover that fits your needs shouldn’t be complicated.
More Car Insurance FAQs
Is car insurance compulsory in South Africa?
No. Car insurance is not legally required for privately owned vehicles in South Africa, but it is strongly recommended because you’re responsible for accident costs if you aren’t insured.
Can I change my level of cover later?
Yes. Oneplan allows eligible clients to adjust their cover using the Oneplan App, giving you greater flexibility as your needs change.
Can I submit a claim online?
Yes. Claims can be submitted through the Oneplan App, making it easier to manage your policy wherever you are.
Do I need to visit an inspection centre?
No. Vehicle validation is completed digitally through the Oneplan App by uploading the required photographs.
Get Flexible Car Insurance That Fits Your Budget
Finding the right car insurance in South Africa doesn’t have to be stressful. Understanding how premiums, excesses, claims and vehicle validation work can help you make an informed decision and avoid surprises later.
With Oneplan Car & Household Insurance, you get flexible cover, digital convenience and an insurance experience designed around modern South African drivers.
Get a quote today and discover how simple car insurance can be with Oneplan.
Your Insurance Family,
Oneplan.
