Costs & premiums
Car insurance in South Africa in 2026: what has changed
By CarInsureZA editorial team · 7 min read · Updated 29 September 2026
This is a plain summary of where South African car insurance stands in 2026: what people pay, what the latest crime figures show, [why claims get rejected](/claims/non-disclosure-why-claims-get-rejected/), and which rule changes are live or still pending.
Every figure below links to its source, and we note where sources disagree. Checked on 29 September 2026.
What drivers pay in 2026
There is no official average premium. Two published estimates agree on the middle of the market:
| Source | Comprehensive | Third party only |
|---|---|---|
| Naked (an insurer) | Most people pay R800 to R1,400 a month | From R70 a month on its own cover |
| QualityQuote (a comparison site, method not stated) | R800 to R1,500 a month for popular hatchbacks and sedans | R180 to R450 a month |
Sources: naked.insure, qualityquote.co.za.
On price trends, Santam's half-year results in September 2026 noted that premium rate increases are moderating. That is one insurer's commentary, not a market-wide figure. (santam.co.za) For published starting prices by insurer, see our cheapest car insurance page.
Hijacking and theft: the latest SAPS figures
SAPS crime statistics for April to June 2026, released on 28 August 2026, compared with the same quarter in 2025:
| Crime | Apr to Jun 2025 | Apr to Jun 2026 | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carjacking | 4,657 | 3,811 | down 18.2% |
| Theft of motor vehicles and motorcycles | 7,523 | 6,994 | down 7.0% |
| Theft out of or from motor vehicles | 17,977 | 17,998 | flat |
No province recorded an increase in carjacking. 3,811 carjackings over the quarter is still about 42 a day. Sources: SAPS Q1 2026/27 statistics, SAPS special issue.
Which models are targeted most depends on who you ask: a May 2026 report names the Toyota Hilux and Volkswagen Polo as top targets (IOL), while other lists differ. There is no single official model ranking.
Why motor claims end up at the Ombud
The National Financial Ombud's 2025 annual report shows motor insurance made up 35.4% of all non-life complaints it finalised. Within motor disputes, accident claims were 70%, theft and hijacking 8% and mechanical breakdown 4%. The leading reason for rejected claims was a policy exclusion, mainly driving under the influence of alcohol, which rose 67% on 2024. (NFO annual report 2025)
If your claim is rejected, our guide to rejected claims and the Ombud explains the steps.
Rules that are live, and rules that are not yet
| Change | Status on 29 September 2026 |
|---|---|
| AARTO fines system | Live since 1 July 2026 in 62 municipalities, not in the Western Cape. See our AARTO guide. |
| AARTO demerit points | Not live anywhere. The road-traffic infringement agency (RTIA) says the next phase, with demerits, is planned for 2027. |
| COFI Bill (new conduct law for insurers) | Not law. Reports disagree on whether it has been formally tabled. (SA Legal Academy) |
| Road Accident Benefit Scheme (RAF reform) | Still a Bill. Nothing changes yet for the RAF fuel levy or third-party claims. (Cape Times) |
| E-hailing operating licences | Being enforced under the amended National Land Transport Act. See our e-hailing guide. |
Sasria: riot and strike damage
Damage from riots, strikes, public disorder and terrorism is covered by Sasria, not by your insurer's normal cover. Sasria's motor wording says you need an underlying policy in force that includes Sasria cover at the time of the loss, and it is added through your insurer. (sasria.co.za) Check your schedule for a Sasria line.
Frequently asked questions
How much does car insurance cost in South Africa in 2026?
Two published estimates put comprehensive cover for most drivers at about R800 to R1,400 or R1,500 a month. Your own price depends on your car, suburb, age and claims record.
Are car hijackings going down in South Africa?
In the latest SAPS quarter (April to June 2026), carjacking fell 18.2% to 3,811 cases compared with the same quarter in 2025, and no province recorded an increase.
Is the AARTO demerit system live?
No. The AARTO fines system went live on 1 July 2026 in 62 municipalities, but demerit points are not live anywhere. RTIA says they are planned for 2027.
What is the most common reason motor claims are rejected?
In the National Financial Ombud's 2025 report, the leading reason was a policy exclusion, mainly driving under the influence of alcohol.
