When you take out black box or ‘telematics’ car insurance, typically you will need some form of device to be fitted in your car.
Although it is commonly known as a black box, now it can be a simple tag or other small device that you can install yourself. Or you download an app that tracks your driving behaviour on your phone.
This guide explains how a black box or other device is fitted, where it is installed, how long the process takes, and what to know about removing a black box when your policy ends.
Need more info? Learn more about what is black box or telematics insurance?
Who fits a black box for insurance?
If you are using a more traditional black box telematics device, you may not install it yourself.
The insurer arranges installation as part of the policy. This is usually done by an approved mobile technician who comes to you, or a local fitting centre working with the insurer.
Once your policy starts, the insurer will contact you to book an appointment. Some devices will arrive in the post, followed by a fitting date, while others are fitted in one visit.
If the insurer uses a tag or mobile app instead of a fitted box, they’ll provide instructions for your to follow.
Where is a black box fitted in a car?
A black box or small telematics device is fitted discreetly inside your car. The exact location will depend on the type of device and the car model. This is typically:
- Under the dashboard
- Behind interior panels
- Near the engine bay
- On the windscreen
The device is placed where it can work properly but remain out of sight. It should not affect how the car looks or drives.
How long does it take to fit a black box?
Fitting a black box is usually quick. In most cases, installation takes between 30 and 60 minutes. If the device is app based, there may be no physical fitting needed at all.
Instead, you will download an app and follow the insurer’s setup instructions.
Can you drive before a black box is fitted?
This depends on the insurer and the policy terms.
Some insurers allow limited driving before installation, others require the black box to be fitted before you drive at all. Your policy documents will explain your black box car insurance rules clearly.
What happens if you remove a black box?
Removing a black box during an active policy is often not allowed. If a black box is unplugged, removed, or stops sending data:
- The insurer could be alerted
- It may be treated as breaking the policy rules
- This can lead to warnings, price changes, or cancellation
What happens when your policy ends?
When your policy finishes, the insurer will tell you what to do next.
This might involve:
- Booking a technician to remove the device
- Returning a plug-in or windscreen device by post
- Leaving the device in place if it is no longer active
- If using a tag, removing and disposing of it
You should not remove the black box yourself unless the insurer confirms it is safe to do so. Removing it incorrectly could damage the car or cause issues if done incorrectly.
Summary
Fitting a black box is usually straightforward. Installation varies depending on the device being used, so your insurer will provide instructions. The device is installed discreetly, does not affect how the car runs, and is set up to work automatically.
Problems tend to arise only if the device is unplugged, removed without permission, or not fitted within the required time. Following the insurer’s instructions helps keep your policy running smoothly.
If you’re still deciding whether this type of cover is right for you, read our guide to whether a black box is worth it for car insurance and get a quote to see how much you could save.
