Cover every part of your car, from standard to specialty parts.
Although you can drive with standard insurance even if your car model’s no longer in production, consider adding extra coverage like original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts coverage so you’re not paying out-of-pocket for special repairs. Also, keep classic or collector car insurance in mind, which often costs less than a standard policy.
Get car insurance quotes for discontinued models
What kind of coverage do I need for a discontinued car?
You’ll still need standard coverage to drive around your discontinued model. Coverage you may need:
Bodily injury liability
Makes sure other drivers and passengers get the medical bill assistance they need. Required in most states.
Property damage liability
Takes responsibility for damage you cause to another person’s vehicle or property. Also required.
Medpay or personal injury protection (PIP)
Helps with medical bills and income loss for your accident-related injuries. Some states require PIP.
Collision
An optional coverage that protects you from paying for your own vehicle repairs.
Uninsured/underinsured motorist
Gives you coverage even when an at-fault driver has inadequate insurance. Often required.
What add-on coverage should I consider for a discontinued car model?
The main concern with a discontinued car is getting the right parts when needed. However, consider several add-ons to take care of your needs:
- Original parts. Allows you to repair your car with original or specialty parts, which may cost extra.
- Rental reimbursement. Covers the cost of a rental car, especially if your car takes longer in the shop due to specialty parts.
- Roadside assistance. For older models that are less reliable, consider adding coverage for towing and roadside help if you have a breakdown on the road.
- Gap insurance. Covers any outstanding amounts on a loan or lease if your car is totaled and the claim fails to pay off your contract. Recommended for newly discontinued models with a car loan or lease.
- Comprehensive. Keeps you safe from vehicle theft or weather damage, which may be helpful for high-value cars.
- Agreed value. Consider coverage that pays the full value of your car if you’ve made modifications or have a high-value vehicle.
- Classic or collector insurance. Your car may be considered a classic or collector car if it’s around 15 years old or is a rare car that appreciates in value. This policy type usually requires low mileage and garage storage.
How much is car insurance for a discontinued model?
The average rate for car insurance is around $1,300 per year. However, your car’s rates might dip below this because discontinued cars often lose their value quickly. Since car value is one of the factors that determines rates, this could play to your advantage.
In addition, classic or collector car insurance often costs 40% less than regular insurance. That means you could pay as little as $780 per year if your discontinued car qualifies.
How can I save on car insurance for a discontinued car?
You can use a few methods to save money on your premium:
- Shop multiple quotes. Get the best rates by comparing quotes from multiple providers.
- Safety features. Every car needs to stay safe with airbags, antilock brakes and an antitheft device. A newer car made in the last few years that’s only recently been discontinued, like a Ford Focus or Jeep Patriot, will probably have safety features that can help you get a safe car discount.
- Insure multiple cars. Find savings just by putting all your cars on the same policy.
- Bundle policies. Get all your insurance needs taken care of conveniently with one provider.
- Drop unnecessary coverage. Nix unnecessary coverage when you can handle the risk on your own, such as new car replacement or extended roadside assistance.
Do different discontinued car models need different types of coverage?
Discontinued cars have the same legal requirements for coverage as other cars, and insurers will usually cover you under a standard policy. However, consider getting special coverage based on the type of car you own.
- Standard discontinued cars. Coverage for original parts ensures you’ll pay nothing extra for hard-to-find equipment.
- Customized discontinued cars. Customized parts coverage for specialty parts that are hard-to-find, especially for imports or rare models. Agreed value gets you the full value covered in a total loss accident.
- Classics or collectibles. Covers car shows, low-mileage driving and agreed value for restored vehicles.
- Level of coverage. Buying a discontinued car with a loan or lease means you’ll typically need full coverage car insurance, which costs more than liability-only coverage. Also consider adding gap coverage, which covers the gap between the loan and the car’s value if it’s totaled.
Which cars are no longer made?
A few makes you’ll no longer find in production in the US include:
- AMC
- Avanti
- Checker
- DeLorean
- DeSoto
- Eagle
- Edsel
- Hummer
- Isuzu
- Mercury
- Mosler
- Oldsmobile
- Packard
- Plymouth
- Pontiac
- Rambler
- Saab
- Saturn
- Scion
- Studebaker
- Suzuki
- Tucker
- Willys
How do I get car insurance for my discontinued car model?
To apply for car insurance, start as you would with any other car. However, specialized cars such as a collector’s model may require you to call the insurance company directly.
- Enter your ZIP code to start an online quote or speak directly to a customer service representative.
- Fill in personal and vehicle information, especially your car’s make, model and year.
- Choose the coverage that fits your needs.
- If applicable, send documented proof of your car’s value or schedule a valuation assessment.
- Enter bank account or credit card information for payment, then finalize details.
What should I watch out for?
Discontinued car models include a few caveats when insuring:
- Specialty repairs. Depending on your car model, you may need special machinery or expert knowledge for proper repairs, especially for older makes like Saab or Plymouth. Double check the repair process with your insurer so that your car gets the attention it needs.
- Customized parts. Unless you have coverage for customized parts, you may not get coverage if they’re damaged in an accident.
- Safety concerns. If your car was discontinued for safety reasons, get a mechanic to ensure the defects have been fixed. Car recalls are covered 100% by your manufacturer, but call your mechanic first to get the right replacement parts. You may even get an insurance discount for adding safety features.
Bottom line
Discontinued cars need standard coverage if used as a daily driver. However, consider coverage for OEM parts, agreed value or even classic car insurance for wider protection.
Get quotes from multiple providers that offer the best value and benefits for your discontinued model.