Drivers are desperately searching for ways to cut the cost of car insurance as premiums soar to an average of £1,000 a year – and almost £3,000 for 18-year-olds.

Many are using price comparison websites or looking to pay for car insurance monthly rather than a lump sum upfront.

However, spreading the cost comes with a hefty price penalty which can add hundreds of pounds to the cost.

Recent research by Which? found a car insurance policy priced at £583 if paid upfront rose by £309 to £892…