Pop-up headlights were a defining feature of sports and supercars in the late 1970s, ’80s, and ’90s. While many associate them with the neon-soaked era of the 1980s, this iconic design actually dates back to 1936.

The first production car to feature hidden headlamps was the Cord 810 (later rebranded as the 812). Around the same time, Alfa Romeo unveiled the 8C 2900A, featuring its own sophisticated hidden headlight design a masterpiece now displayed at the Musée National de l’Automobile in Mulhouse, France.

Cars That Made Pop-Up Headlights Iconic

From the ’70s through the ’90s, pop-up headlights became a global symbol of performance and futuristic design. The list of cars featuring them is surprisingly diverse, ranging from lightweight roadsters to the world’s most exotic supercars.

Some of the most legendary examples include:

• Mazda MX-5 (Mk1): The lightweight roadster where the “wink” became a cult design feature.
• Porsche 944: A sleek, everyday sports car with unmistakable pop-up flair.
• Honda NSX: The Japanese supercar that blended everyday usability with high-tech design innovation.
• Ferrari Testarossa: A bold, straked icon that defined 1980s excess.
• Lamborghini Countach: The ultimate poster car, made even more dramatic by its hidden lamps.
• BMW 8 Series (E31): One of the last mainstream grand tourers to embrace the design in the early ’90s.

Want to see a full list of cars with pop-up or hidden headlights? [Click here] you might be surprised by how many made the list!

Why Did They Disappear?

While many assume pop-up headlights were flatly banned, that’s not entirely accurate. Their decline was primarily driven by evolving European safety regulations, specifically pedestrian safety laws introduced in the late ‘90s and early 2000s.

Pop-up headlights often featured low, sharp mechanical edges that didn’t comply with new front-end impact absorption standards. As manufacturers shifted their focus to aerodynamics, complex crash-safety zones, and cost-efficiency, the mechanical complexity of pop-up designs simply became impractical.

Are Pop-Up Headlights Illegal Today?

Contrary to popular belief, pop-up headlights aren’t technically illegal. However, the legal hurdles to bring them back are immense. Modern manufacturers must comply with stringent pedestrian impact regulations, which require the front of a car to be “soft” and energy-absorbent to minimize injury in a collision. A rigid, mechanical unit with sharp edges is an engineering nightmare to make “safe” by today’s standards.

Additionally, current laws regarding headlight height and beam stability mean that a light must be ready to illuminate the road instantly. The split-second delay of a motor lifting the lamp, combined with the aerodynamic drag it creates, means mass-market manufacturers now prefer the sleek, fixed LED units we see today. This is why even the most daring concept cars usually opt for digital “light signatures” over moving parts.

Could They Ever Make a Comeback?

While it’s hard to imagine a mainstream, carbon-fibre supercar with 1980s-style pop-ups today, the emotional connection to them is stronger than ever. They represent a “golden era” of automotive design, a time when creativity and personality took precedence over wind-tunnel efficiency and corporate red tape.

We are, however, seeing a glimmer of hope in the bespoke and restomod world. Specialised builders are experimenting with ultra-slim LED “hidden” lights and modern actuators that could, in theory, pass low-volume safety checks. Whether they return in a new, high-tech digital form or remain a cherished relic of the past, their legacy as one of the most beloved features in car culture is permanent. Until a manufacturer finds a way to reinvent the “wink” for the 21st century, we’ll continue to cherish the classics and keep the dream alive.

Recently, we shared a blog about how we gained a new client due to the way their previous broker mishandled a claim. The feedback from that article has been excellent, so we’ve decided to follow up with a piece focusing on replacement vehicles after an accident and what you should be aware of when navigating your options.

Claims – “I’m Not at Fault and I’ve Been Offered a Free Courtesy Car”

If you’re involved in an accident that wasn’t your fault, you’ll often receive multiple calls, texts, or letters from companies offering you a replacement vehicle. This is usually while your own car is being repaired, or while you’re waiting for settlement if your vehicle is beyond econonical to repair or written off (a total loss).

But what are your options when it comes to accepting a replacement vehicle, and what should you consider?

Courtesy Car

If your vehicle is repairable, your insurer may arrange a courtesy car usually provided through one of their approved repairers, subject to availability. This is typically offered at no or minimal cost to the insurer, but it’s not guaranteed.

The courtesy car is usually a small vehicle, such as a Ford Fiesta, so it’s unlikely to match the size, specification, or value of your own car. If your vehicle is written off (declared a total loss), you are unlikely to be offered a courtesy vehicle at all.

With a courtesy car, you’ll only need to cover fuel costs and any insurance excess if the vehicle is damaged or stolen. If you don’t need to travel far or require a like-for-like replacement, this can be a convenient and cost-effective option worth considering.

Scenario	Will the vehicle be available or be provided?	Comments
At fault	If available but not certain	If provided it will be a small vehicle not a like for like. Will be provided by the repairer often the insurer pays nothing or a limited amount. There is also often limited mileage use applied.
Non fault	No	You are likely to be offered a credit hire vehicle or an intervention vehicle from the at fault third party Insurer.
Theft – non repair	No	N/A

Positives	Negatives
You only pay for fuel and any excess if the vehicle is damaged or stolen.	It is not always going to be available. It will be dependent on the repair network.
No financial or legal risk to you.	The vehicle will be small. So not ideal if you use your vehicle every day or travel long distances. If you exceed the limited mileage, additional charges may be applied.
No extra cost, it is included within the terms of your policy.	Will not be provided if the vehicle is not repaired. i.e. a total loss.
	If you are not at fault, you will be offered a like for like vehicle on a credit hire or intervention basis but you still have the option to use a courtesy car if it’s available.

Replacement Car Via Your Own Policy

When you purchase motor insurance, you may be offered the option to include hire car cover either as part of your main policy or as an additional add-on. This type of cover provides access to a replacement vehicle while your own car is being repaired, or if it’s written off, while you wait for a settlement to replace it.

These policies usually offer different levels of cover, which may specify the size or type of vehicle provided and the length of time you can use it typically up to 14 or 21 days.

If you’re at fault for the accident, your replacement vehicle will be arranged according to the terms of your policy. However, if you’re not at fault, you will often be offered a credit hire vehicle, regardless of whether you purchased replacement car cover.

Credit hire can be a useful solution, as it often provides a like-for-like replacement vehicle. If you rely on a larger car or regularly travel long distances, this may be the most suitable option. However, it usually comes at a higher cost and may have certain limitations or conditions to be aware of.

Scenario	Will the vehicle be available or be provided?	Comments
At fault	Yes	The vehicle type will be dependent on the level of cover selected but could be an equivalent, like for like.
Non fault	Yes	You are likely to be offered a credit hire vehicle or an intervention vehicle from the at fault third party insurer.
Theft – Non repair	Yes	Many policies will provide a vehicle for non repair cases also, So will cover a period if your vehicle is stolen and not recovered.

Positives	Negatives
The vehicle will be larger than a courtesy vehicle. Possibly up to a like for like vehicle.	You need to pay an additional premium to access this option.
You only pay for fuel and any excess if the vehicle is damaged or stolen.	The period of hire is limited to up to 14 or 21 days.
You have access to a vehicle even if you are at fault.	If you are non-fault, you will more than likely be offered a credit hire or intervention vehicle solution. If your insurer refers you to credit hire, your Insurer will profit from you.
No financial or legal risk to you on fault cases	If you are not at fault and use credit hire there is a small risk.

Replacement Vehicle Provided By The At Fault, and Liable Third-Party Insurer

It can take time for third-party insurers to investigate an accident and decide who is liable. Because of this, you may not receive an offer of a replacement vehicle immediately and sometimes the offer arrives after you’ve already needed one.

However, once liability is accepted and a vehicle is offered, this is often the best option for most people. The risks are minimal, and you’ll typically receive a like-for-like or equivalent-sized vehicle for the full duration of repairs, or until you receive settlement funds if your car is written off (a total loss).

Scenario	Will the vehicle be available or be provided?	Comments
At fault	No	You will not be offered a vehicle by the third-party insurers.
Non fault	Possibly	If the third-party insurers are proactive and can agree to liability, then they will seek to intervene and offer you. a like for like a replacement vehicle.
Theft – Non repair	No	You will not be offered a vehicle by the third-party insurers.

Positives	Negatives
The vehicle will be offered on a like for like basis.	An offer may not be made to you or long after you need the vehicle.
You only pay for fuel and any excess if the vehicle is damaged or stolen.	You will not be offered a vehicle if you are at fault or if your vehicle is a total loss.
No financial or legal risk

Replacement Vehicle Provided To You When You’re Not At Fault

In many cases, if you’re not at fault for an accident, your insurer, broker, solicitor, or repairer may refer you to a credit hire company. This is often because they receive a commission for the referral, sometimes amounting to several hundred pounds.

If you proceed, you’ll be asked to sign a credit hire agreement, which typically includes:

• Credit terms (usually allowing repayment in up to 12 instalments over 12 months if needed)
• A mitigation statement (confirming your need for the vehicle and agreement to manage costs responsibly)
• A 14-day cancellation period

Your Responsibilities when entering into a credit hire agreement, you have a legal duty to:

• Be honest about your need for the replacement vehicle
• Assist the credit hire company in recovering costs from the at-fault party’s insurer
• Provide necessary documentation, including your driving licence, insurance certificate, vehicle V5, and—if you cannot afford to hire a vehicle privately—proof of financial means (such as bank statements or loan details)

If the credit hire company cannot reach a settlement with the third-party insurer, they may need to issue legal proceedings in your name. You will be required to support this process, though in most cases you won’t have to pay anything unless you fail to cooperate or provide misleading information.

Things to Consider

• Credit hire is a legally binding contract, so it’s essential to read and understand the terms before signing.
• In most cases, credit hire offers access to a like-for-like replacement vehicle, which can be the best option if you need a larger or specialist car.
• If you’re happy to support the recovery process and agree to the terms, credit hire can be a practical solution when you’re not at fault for an accident.

Scenario	Will the vehicle be available or be provided?	Comments
At fault	No	You will not be offered a vehicle by the credit hire firm.
Non fault	Possibly	It is likely your insurer or broker will refer your details to a credit hire firm. If they agree liability is clear and after you have provided details and signed a contract, they will provide a vehicle to you.
Theft – Non repair	No	You will not be offered a vehicle by the credit hire firm.

Positives	Negatives
The vehicle will be offered on a like for like basis.	You will only be offered a vehicle if you sign a credit hire agreement and meet the criteria of the credit hire company and liability is clearly in your favour, at least 50% or more.
	You will not be offered a vehicle if you are at fault or if your vehicle is a total loss.
	You are signing a credit hire agreement, a mitigation statement of truth, so there is a risk.
	You will need to provide evidence and support the recovery process.

We recently welcomed a new client, not because we offered the cheapest premium, but because we did what his previous broker didn’t: we told him the truth about Insurance Broking.

For the purpose of this blog, we’ll call our new client Mr. X.

Mr. X came to us with questions about a credit hire claim he’d been caught up in. After a non-fault accident, his broker arranged a replacement vehicle but failed to explain what credit hire actually meant, what he was signing, or what the risks were in the context of Insurance Broking.

He had no idea he was personally liable if the costs weren’t recovered through his Insurance Broking arrangement.

The Reality of Outsourced Claims

When the credit hire company’s costs were challenged by the third party’s insurer, they turned on Mr. X, stating he was liable for payment due to his Insurance Broking contract.

To us, that’s a clear sign the broker outsourced the entire non-fault claim to a credit hire company, likely pocketing a £200–£300 referral fee from the Insurance Broking deal and closed the file.

With no one else to turn to, his daughter, who knew us at VINTTRO, asked if we could help. Of course, we did. We reviewed the claim, explained his position and guided him through the process. With our claims expertise and some firm direction, the matter was resolved within four weeks.

This is why choosing the right Insurance Broking service is crucial for policyholders.

That single conversation led to a new client and, hopefully, a long-term relationship built on trust in our Insurance Broking services.

Why Informed Consent is Non-Negotiable

In the fast-paced world of motor claims, especially at the high-value end of the market, speed can lead to shortcuts in Insurance Broking.

At first glance, it seems like a helpful solution: your car is off the road and a replacement appears instantly. But behind the scenes, there is a lot more going on that could leave you financially exposed.

What Is Credit Hire?

Credit hire is the provision of a temporary replacement vehicle on a credit basis, with the understanding that the hire costs will be recovered from the at-fault party’s insurer under the guidance of Insurance Broking.

The Problem: Hidden Agreements

Many insurers and brokers instruct credit hire companies without explaining:

• What credit hire actually is (a credit agreement, not a gift).
• The legal and financial responsibilities involved.
• The implications if the claim is disputed or rejected.
• What alternatives might be available (such as a standard courtesy car).

In many cases, the policyholder believes they are driving a straightforward courtesy car, not realizing they have entered a legally binding credit contract.

Why This Matters

1. Your name is on the line: Credit hire contracts are personal credit agreements. If liability is contested or costs aren’t recovered, the policyholder can be left holding the bill.
2. It undermines trust: In the prestige and specialist market, trust is everything. Finding out you were entered into an agreement you didn’t understand destroys that bond.
3. It may not be the best fit: For those with rare or specialist collections, a standard insurer-provided vehicle or negotiated hire might actually be a safer, more appropriate choice.
4. It complicates litigation: If the opposing insurer disputes the cost (which is common), the policyholder may be dragged into lengthy litigation to prove their “need” for the vehicle.

Understanding these risks is part of responsible Insurance Broking.

At VINTTRO, we believe that Insurance Broking is about more than just selling policies; it’s about proactive advocacy and transparency.

At VINTTRO, we believe that Insurance Broking is about more than just selling policies; it’s about proactive advocacy.

“Anything less than full transparency isn’t just bad service, it borders on negligence and fails the standard of modern Consumer Duty regulationsTherefore, a solid understanding of Insurance Broking is essential for every policyholder.

What Should Happen Instead? A policyholder should be told exactly what is being proposed, what it means in plain English and what their responsibilities are. Only then should an agreement be signed.

We offer full accident management and claims services for all our policyholders. That is the major difference between VINTTRO, run-of-the-mill brokers, and comparison websites. When we set up your policy, we always have one eye on what could happen on the day you actually need to use it.

This underscores the importance of knowledgeable Insurance Broking in navigating such agreements.

It’s a common request for niche car owners: “Would you mind taking my son to his prom in your beautiful car?” Often, it’s a pleasure to say yes, especially for a close friend or family member. However, before you start polishing the bonnet, there is a critical consideration: your insurance cover. Using your car for a prom or wedding without the correct policy could land you in serious legal and financial trouble.

Standard Insurance vs. “Hire and Reward”

If you transport someone in exchange for money—even if it is just to cover fuel or wear and tear—it may be classed as “hire and reward.” Technically, you are operating as a chauffeur service, which standard car insurance does not cover.

Even if no money changes hands, insurers may view the event as “non-standard use” if it involves specific schedules, multiple trips, or decorations. This creates a “grey area” that could leave you unprotected.

The Risks of Invalidating Your Policy

Driving outside your agreement terms is a massive gamble. If your policy is invalidated, the consequences are severe:

• No Accident Cover: You will be 100% responsible for all repair costs.
• Personal Liability: You could be held personally liable for third-party injuries, potentially costing tens of thousands of pounds or more.
• Legal Penalties: You risk fixed penalty fines of £300, 6–8 penalty points, and even prosecution for driving without valid insurance.
• Future Costs: An insurance violation can lead to significantly higher premiums or difficulty getting cover in the future.

Note: Police often increase roadside checks during prom and wedding season. If you are found to be using the vehicle for hire without the right cover, your vehicle can be seized on the spot.

How to Do It Safely

The good news is that you can still enjoy these special days. Specialist event cover is available and can often be added to your existing policy to ensure:

1. You are fully legally compliant.
2. You have total peace of mind during the journey.
3. The passenger, the public, and your car are protected.

Pro Tip: If you are offering the ride as a genuine gift with no payment involved, call your broker anyway. Many insurers may approve it as a one-off gesture of goodwill if notified in advance.

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Need Specialist Event Cover?

Don’t let a celebration turn into a claim. At VINTTRO Cover, we arrange policies specifically designed for luxury, classic, and high-performance cars, including event-based cover.

Talk to us today about adding Wedding or Prom cover to your policy

If you drive a standard hatchback, you’ve probably heard the rumours: “Buy your insurance exactly 21 days before renewal at 3:00 PM on a Tuesday to save 15%.” In the world of mainstream, algorithm-driven insurance, there’s some truth to that. But for those of us who drive something a little more interesting, the rules of the road are different when you look to renew niche car insurance.

What Exactly Is a “Niche” Car?

Before we talk timing, let’s define the category. At VINTTRO Cover, we define a niche vehicle as anything that sits outside the “standard” box:

• Classics & Future Classics
• High-Performance Cars, Luxury Cars & Supercars
• Modified Vehicles (from engine swaps to aesthetic kits)
• Recreations, Kit Cars & Ex-Military Vehicles
• Motorhomes & Campervans

Does the “Golden Window” Exist to Renew Niche Car Insurance for Specialists?

The short answer? No. Standard insurance prices fluctuate based on time-sensitive algorithms. However, niche insurance relies on specialist underwriting. This means a human expert evaluates the actual risk, provenance, and condition of your vehicle rather than a computer chip chasing a daily quota.

Whether you call us at 8:00 AM or 11:00 PM to renew car insurance, your premium is determined by stable, precise factors:

• The Vehicle’s Story: Its age, condition and rarity.
• Security: Where it sleeps at night (locked garages or professional secured storage).
• Usage: Annual mileage and whether it’s a daily driver or a weekend joyride.
• The Collector Factor: Is it part of a wider collection?

The Verdict: You don’t need to “game the clock.” The best time to renew car insurance is simply early enough to allow your broker to negotiate the best bespoke deal for you. We recommend starting the conversation 30 days before your current policy expires.

Should You Stay Loyal or Shop Around?

It’s a common frustration: you’ve been with an insurer for years, yet your renewal quote jumps up without explanation. Conversely, some “faceless” comparison sites are impossible to reach when you actually need to make a claim and talk to someone.

At VINTTRO Cover, we believe in a middle ground. As an independent broker, we do the shopping for you. We prioritise personal service over automated queues, ensuring you get a competitive rate to renew car insurance without sacrificing the support you need during a claim.

3 Proven Ways to Lower Your Niche Premium

Since timing won’t “hack” the price when you renew car insurance, here is what actually will:

1. Join a Car Club: Insurers view club members as responsible enthusiasts. Membership in the VINTTRO Community or a recognised marque club often triggers significant discounts.
2. Audit Your Mileage: If you’ve only done 2,000 miles this year on a 5,000-mile policy, let us know. Lower risk equals lower premiums.
3. Consolidate Your Cover: Multi-car policies are often more cost-effective because insurers know you can’t drive all your vehicles at once!

Never Miss a Beat (or a Renewal)

Gaps in cover aren’t just risky; they can lead to hefty fines and points on your license. To take the stress out of the process when it’s time to renew your niche car insurance, we developed the VINTTRO Hub.

It’s a digital garage where you can set automatic reminders for your Insurance, MOT and Servicing. We’ll also reach out about a month before your policy expires to ensure your “pride and joy” stays protected without a single day’s gap.

Ready for a Quote That Fits?

Don’t leave your specialist vehicle to a general algorithm. Speak to our team of enthusiasts today to renew car insurance with the experts.

Call us on 0333 4042 007 — we’re ready when you are.

Many high-profile business leaders and entrepreneurs have turned their love for rare and niche cars into a defining part of their lifestyle. Here, we take a look at some notable examples of the icons and the machinery they cherish.

Ralph Lauren

The iconic fashion designer and entrepreneur has a car collection that rivals world-renowned museums. Lauren views cars as an extension of his creative vision, reflecting a blend of craftsmanship and style that aligns with his fashion empire.

• 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO: One of the most coveted cars in the world, valued at over £50 million.
• 1938 Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic Coupe: An ultra-rare masterpiece with only two surviving examples.
• 1955 Jaguar XK120 Roadster: A sleek classic that embodies the elegance of post-war British design.

Elon Musk

While synonymous with the electric revolution, Musk has a soft spot for automotive history. His most famous purchase is “Wet Nellie” the 1976 Lotus Esprit from the James Bond film The Spy Who Loved Me. For Musk, owning a piece of cinematic and engineering history aligns with his drive for innovation.

Richard Branson

The Virgin Group founder is known for his adventurous spirit, which is reflected in his choice of a 1968 Morris Mini Cooper S. It is a quintessential British classic that captures Branson’s quirky, rebellious, and quintessentially “British” brand identity.

Jay Leno

While a legendary entertainer, Leno is business leader who created a massive “brand” in the automotive world. His collection features over 180 rare cars, including:

• Duesenberg Model J: A symbol of 1920s American luxury.
• McLaren F1: Widely regarded as the greatest supercar ever made, representing the pinnacle of modern engineering.

Bill Gates

The Microsoft business leader, entrepreneur and co-founder is a devoted Porsche ambassador. His most notable classic is the 1979 Porsche 911 Turbo. Gates has always been fascinated by precision engineering, and his collection reflects his admiration for technological perfection.

Noteworthy Models Adored by Icons

If you’re curious about which models consistently grab the attention of the world’s elite, here is a quick rundown:

• Shelby Cobra 427: The ultimate symbol of raw American muscle.
• Ferrari 250 GT California Spider: Often cited as the epitome of Italian elegance.
• Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing: A blend of engineering marvel and iconic design.
• Jaguar E-Type: Famously called “the most beautiful car ever made” by Enzo Ferrari.

What Drives This Passion?

Beyond aesthetics and performance, rare classic cars offer business leaders:

• A Creative Outlet: Engaging with history and design outside of the boardroom.
• Networking: Auctions and tours provide a unique space for high-powered individuals to connect.
• A Legacy Piece: These cars are appreciating assets to be passed down through generations, provided you have the right specialist insurance and estate planning in place.

Ready to Protect Your Most Valuable Assets?

Rare collections and investment cars that reflect your success and personal journey are not ordinary assets and they deserve more than a standard insurance policy.

Our specialist cover is designed for those who own rare, niche and investment cars as an integral part of our clients lifestyle. Whether you are safeguarding a period residence, a contemporary bespoke build, or a private collection of classic, performance or collector vehicles, we provide tailored protection built around your portfolio.

For multi-policies with agreed value for rare and niche vehicles, our approach ensures that your investment cars are protected with precision and discretion.

Speak to a member of our specialist team today to arrange a bespoke solution aligned to your lifestyle.

At VINTTRO Cover, we don’t simply help insure assets, we protect your legacy, your investments and the way you live.

If you are about to take out car insurance, you will undoubtedly be asked: “Would you like to add legal expenses cover?” It’s safe to say you aren’t alone in thinking, “I have no idea!”

We want to pull back the curtain on what legal expenses insurance actually is, why it matters, and how VINTTRO Cover handles things a little differently.

What is Legal Expenses Insurance?

In short, it’s designed to protect you against the costs of legal action, whether you are the one starting the claim or someone is bringing a claim against you.

• Single Car Policies: Usually, this cover is tied to one specific vehicle.
• VINTTRO Multi-Car: Unlike many standard providers, our multi-car policies cover all cars listed under the same legal expenses umbrella.

The “Pros”: Why bother adding it?

If you’re involved in a “non-fault” incident and need to recover losses (like your excess or lost earnings), a legal team handles the heavy lifting, gathering evidence and preparing your case.

Key benefits include:

• Cost Coverage: It covers solicitors’ fees, barristers’ costs, and court fees.
• Expert Guidance: Most policies include a free legal helpline for advice when you’re in a “what do I do now?” situation.
• Uninsured Loss Recovery: Helping you get back money that your standard policy doesn’t cover (like travel costs while your car is in the shop).

The Whiplash Factor

Recent legislative changes mean that for personal injury claims under £5,000, solicitors can no longer recover their fees from the other side. While you can submit a claim yourself via the OIC portal, legal cover ensures you have professional advice to navigate the process correctly.

Are there any “Cons”?

The main “con” is the one common to all insurance: you might pay for it and never use it. However, you have to weigh a small annual premium against the massive financial hit of a court case.

Note: Most policies have a claims limit (usually around £100,000). While generous, complex cases can eat through this, so it’s vital to know exactly what your specific policy covers.

Talk to us – 0333 4042 007

Our friendly, knowledgeable advisors at VINTTRO Cover are here to help. Whether you have questions about an existing policy or are looking for new cover, we’ve got your back.

When you own a classic, luxury, or high-performance vehicle, it’s more than just transport—it’s an investment, a passion, and a statement of taste. If you are involved in an accident, even a minor one, the quality of the repair is paramount.

Many owners don’t realise they have the legal right to choose their own repairer, even if their insurer pushes them toward a “preferred” high-volume body shop within their standard approved network.

The “Consumer Duty” Difference: Your Right to a Good Outcome

Under the FCA’s Consumer Duty regulations, insurance firms must act to deliver “good outcomes” for their customers. This means they should not put up “unreasonable barriers” that prevent you from pursuing your financial objectives, like maintaining the resale value of your car.

If an insurer forces you to use a garage in their approved network that cannot technically handle carbon fibre or bespoke paintwork, they may be failing in their duty to avoid “foreseeable harm” to your asset’s value.

Do You Really Have the Right to Choose?

Yes. In the UK, you are not legally obligated to use the repairer your insurance company suggests. However, how that choice is treated depends on your policy type:

• Standard Policies: May allow your choice but might “penalise” you with a doubled excess or by refusing a courtesy car if you go outside their approved network.
• Specialist Policies (like VINTTRO Cover): These are built with “Choice of Repairer” as a standard feature, understanding that a Ferrari or a vintage E-Type cannot be fixed at a “one-size-fits-all” garage.

Pro Tip: Look at your Policy Wording or IPID (Insurance Product Information Document) for a “Choice of Repairer” clause.

Why Specialists Matter for Prestige Vehicles

• Technical Engineering: Carbon fibre, hand-rolled aluminium, and complex electronics require marque-specific tools and training that general approved networks often lack.
• Genuine Parts: Specialist repairers insist on OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts. Standard insurers may try to use “non-genuine” or “matching quality” parts within their own approved network to save costs.
• Preserving Value: A poor paint match or a non-documented repair from a non-specialist approved network can wipe thousands off the resale value of a niche car.
• Warranty Protection: Under the Motor Vehicle Block Exemption Regulations, using an independent specialist does not automatically void your manufacturer warranty, provided they follow the correct procedures.

The Trade-Offs: What to Watch For

• The “Cost Gap”: If your specialist’s hourly rate is significantly higher than the insurer’s approved network rate, some insurers may ask you to pay the difference. Specialist policies are designed to bridge this gap.
• Increased Excess: Some mainstream insurers penalise you for going “off-network” or choosing a repairer outside of their approved network. Under Consumer Duty, we believe these costs should be transparently explained to you before you buy.
• Approval Time: Using your own repairer can involve a slightly longer approval process while engineers agree on the costs compared to a direct “green light” within an approved network.

Access the VINTTRO Specialist Network

At VINTTRO Cover, we give you the best options and guidance when it comes to niche car repair. We have curated our own Specialist Approved Network, which all our clients are able to tap into.

This is a carefully selected group of highly-qualified, audited partners who specialise in everything from localised paint repairs to full-blown structural restorations. By using our approved network, you get:

• Audited Quality: Partners are vetted by industry leaders like NOVOL.
• Specialist Knowledge: Expertise in historic marques, supercars, and investment-grade vehicles.
• Peace of Mind: Repairs that are fully warranted and performed by technicians who share your passion.

VINTTRO’S Top Tips for Owners

• Get a detailed estimate: You are generally only required to provide one estimate from your chosen shop.
• Verify Credentials: Ensure your repairer has manufacturer approval or belongs to a recognised body like the NBRA (National Body Repair Association).
• Document Everything: Request a certificate of repair and “before and after” photos for your car’s provenance file.

Final Thoughts

In the world of prestige motoring, compromise isn’t an option. Choosing a “cheap” policy from a comparison site might save you £50 today, but it could cost you thousands in diminished value later by forcing you into a standard approved network.

Under Consumer Duty, you deserve a policy that provides “Fair Value” which, for a prestige car owner, means a repair that returns the car to its exact pre-accident condition.

Don’t wait for an accident to find out where you stand. Talk to the experts at VINTTRO Cover – 0333 404 2007.

We’ve all been there: the dreaded “renewal” email lands in your inbox and suddenly you’re staring at a dozen tabs of comparison sites, confusing jargon, and skyrocketing premiums.

In a UK market that is increasingly complex and highly regulated, many people fall into the trap of choosing the “cheapest” policy from a catchy TV ad, only to find out, too late, that they aren’t actually covered when it matters most.

The Problem with “Going it Alone”

While comparison sites are convenient, they are algorithms, not advisors. Without professional guidance, you face significant risks:

• Under-insurance: Your policy might not cover the true value of your assets.
• Hidden Exclusions: Fine print that “repudiates” (rejects) your claim on a technicality.
• Rising Fraud: The increase in “Ghost Broking” and fraudulent schemes in the UK.
• Claims Inflation: Rising repair costs mean standard policies often fall short of modern needs.

How a Professional Insurance Broker Adds Real Value

A broker doesn’t just “find a price”; they act as your personal advocate. This is where VINTTRO Cover changes the game.

Feature	Buying Online (DIY)	Using VINTTRO Cover
Coverage	Generic / “One size fits all”	Tailored to your specific risk
Claims Support	You vs. a Call Center	Expert guidance through the whole process
Expertise	Limited to what’s on the screen	Decades of industry knowledge
Repair Quality	Often restricted by the insurer	Access to the premier accident management services

The VINTTRO Difference: Our “Claims First” Approach

Most insurance brokers stop working once they’ve sold you the policy. At VINTTRO, that’s where we start. Our Unique Selling Proposition (USP) is our extensive claims expertise that seamlessly runs alongside our insurance brokerage.

We understand that a claim is the “moment of truth.” We don’t just help you get insured; we ensure that if the worst happens, your claim is managed fast and efferently. From managing vehicle repairs to help recovering uninsured losses following a non-fault accident, we take the stress out of the process so you can get back to normal.

The bottom line: Insurance is only “expensive” if it doesn’t pay out when you need it. A good broker ensures your investment actually protects you.

Ready for a policy that actually protects you?

Don’t leave your most cherished assets to a search engine algorithm. Let our specialists find the right coverage for your lifestyle or business.

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Our History When the original VINTTRO brand was incorporated over four years ago, our mission was singular: to serve car enthusiasts. We focused on the niche world of high-end sports cars, classics, and investment vehicles. We’ve enjoyed incredible success in that space, but as any collector knows, the best machines require tuning to stay at peak performance.

Our founder, Simon, believes that rebranding isn’t just about a new look, it’s about opening doors. Here are the two driving forces behind the new VINTTRO brand.

1. The Spirit of Evolution

Our owners, Simon, David, Jason and Stephen are firm advocates of change. In a fast-paced digital world, standing still is the same as moving backward. We believe a fresh identity revitalises our mission and keeps our energy aligned with the modern market.

2. You Asked, We Listened

We recently took a deep dive into our client database and discovered something fascinating: our customers want more than just car services.

Our members trust us with their most prized automotive assets, and that trust has led to a recurring question: “We love your car insurance services; can you handle my business and home insurance too?”

That was our lightbulb moment. Instead of being a brand renowned only for cars, we realised we needed to become a brand that supports our customers’ entire lifestyles.

A Fresh Start: More Than Just a Logo

To remain relevant and competitive, we are evolving and integrating the VINTTRO Brand into a technology-driven intelligence platform. This new infrastructure allows us to:

• Enhance the Customer Value Proposition: Providing collaborative products and services across both personal and business sectors.
• Stay Relevant: Aligning our image and messaging with the values and preferences of a new generation of consumers.
• Scale for Growth: Ensuring our brand and infrastructure can support our strategic goals for the next five years and beyond.

Standing Out in a Saturated Market

The insurance world is often seen as “mundane.” Simon’s vision has always been to challenge that by creating a business that, through creativity, rejects the everyday status quo. As he puts it: “Being a positive disruptor has always been my mantra in business.”

We aren’t interested in being another generic insurance broker lost in the noise of a saturated industry. Instead, we have evolved into a lifestyle brand where insurance broking serves as a vital part of our core infrastructure.

Our proposition is different because of how we engage our clients and how we link data to enhance their lifestyles, rather than just filling out a form. We believe that mainstream brokers who fail to diversify or think outside the box will struggle to remain relevant. By profiling our customers deeply, we can bring to market bespoke and compelling solutions that align perfectly with their personal and business activities.

By October 2026, we will be operating from our new physical premises, a niche environment like no other. This unique space is designed to be more than just an office; it is an environment where we will invite our customers and insurance partners to see first hand how we are integrating protection and peace of mind into their everyday lives.

Digital Innovation, Traditional Values

While we are embracing cutting-edge IT platforms and digital transformation, we haven’t forgotten the human element. You cannot insure a commercial fleet or a high-value collection through an app alone. We remain committed to the power of a physical conversation and formal meetings.

The New VINTTRO Brand Identity

VINTTRO is moving forward and we’re taking our passion for excellence with us.