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How to lower car insurance costs

Unexpected ways to save on car insurance

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Roslyn McKenna
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No one wants to pay more for car insurance than they need to. Compare the best and easiest ways to pay less on your monthly car insurance bill right now and the next time you shop around.

How do I get cheap car insurance right now?

Compare the top ways to save on your car insurance to find out if you could lower your premiums.

1. Stop paying for add-ons you don’t need.

Check your policy for optional extras you’re paying for that you haven’t used and don’t need.

2. Reassess coverage as your car gets older.

Find your car’s value online on sites like KBB or Edmunds. If your car value has dropped and is close to your annual premiums, it’s time to reevaluate your coverage maximums and consider dropping comprehensive and collision.

3. Increase your deductible.

Consider raising your deductible, which is the amount you have to pay when making a claim before you get reimbursed. A higher deductible means lower premiums. Just make sure you can afford the higher cost if you end up needing to make a claim.

4. Choose your drivers carefully.

You should see lower premiums by insuring your policy in the oldest or safest driver’s name and simply listing drivers with higher risk, as long as everyone driving the car is listed.

5. Park in a safe location.

Cars kept in garages are cheaper to insure than those parked on the street. It might be worth putting your car in a garage or carport or renting a garage space from someone in your neighborhood, not only for reduced premiums but also to reduce the risk of making a car theft claim.

6. Reduce your mileage.

You could get a low mileage discount if you drive less than 35 miles a day or 13,000 per year. If you’re close to the low mileage threshold, see if you could reduce or combine your trips or carpool to lower your miles.

7. Ask for discounts.

Make sure you’re getting rewarded where you can, and check for any new car insurance discounts you could qualify for, like a claim-free or loyalty discount. Check for any safety or anti-theft features your car has to save even more.

8. Don’t write off local carriers.

The best car insurer for you might not be one of the big brands. A regional or local car insurance company may have better rates than a national one. But watch out for limited coverage areas or agent-only support.

9. Shop around to compare prices.

Switch car insurance providers instead of renewing, especially if you’ve been through big life changes like getting married or moving. You can also use comparison quotes to ask for a price match from your current insurer.

What are the easiest ways to get a discount?

  • Get a quote online.
  • Sign up for a policy in advance.
  • Set up autopay for premium payments.
  • Signup for paperless notifications.
  • Take a defensive driver class.
  • Pay your policy in full, upfront.

How else can I save on car insurance?

A few of the biggest opportunities for savings aren’t possible in the short term, but they could help you get cheaper car insurance the next time you shop around.

  1. Improved credit score. If you live in a state that allows insurers to factor in your credit score when setting your rates and your credit score has improved to the next tier could save you hundreds of dollars.
  2. Drive safely. It’s easier said than done, but if you keep your claims history and tickets to a minimum, you’ll save a bundle.
  3. Wait for accidents and tickets to drop off your record. It’s a good time to shop after claims or tickets are no longer counted against you, which is typically after three to five years after you got the ticket.
  4. Build a deductible savings. If you have a $500 deductible because you can’t afford a $2,000 deductible now, save up that extra $1,500 in a high-interest savings account. When you hit your goal, switch to the higher deductible.

How can my next car help me save on car insurance?

The next time you’re shopping for a new or new-to-you car, you’ll find lower insurance rates on safer cars or cheaper cars. When you go to pick your trim and upgrades, consider installing antitheft or security features to qualify for discounts to help lower your premiums.

Some of the cheapest car models to insure include:

  • Acura RDX
  • Buick Encore
  • Chevrolet Equinox
  • Chevrolet Malibu
  • Dodge Journey
  • Ford Escape
  • Ford Explorer
  • Ford F-150
  • Honda Accord
  • Honda Civic
  • Honda CR-V
  • Honda Odyssey
  • Jeep Cherokee
  • Jeep Compass
  • Jeep Patriot
  • Jeep Wrangler
  • Mazda CX-5
  • Nissan Altima
  • Nissan Frontier
  • Nissan Rogue
  • Nissan Sentra
  • Ram 1500
  • Subaru Forester
  • Subaru Outback
  • Toyota Camry
  • Toyota Corolla
  • Toyota Highlander
  • Toyota Tacoma

Car insurance breakdown by brand

Get cheap car insurance quotes online today

Name Product Roadside assistance New car protection Accident forgiveness Safe driver discount Available states
Allstate
Allstate
Optional
13%
All 50 states
Your dedicated agent can help you find the best savings with multiple discounts and rewards programs.
Get quotes
More Info
Progressive
Progressive
Optional
30%
All 50 states & DC
Discover coverage that’s broader than competitors, valuable discounts up to 30% off and perks like shrinking deductibles that reward no claims.
Get quotes
More Info
The AARP Auto Insurance Program from The Hartford
The AARP Auto Insurance Program from The Hartford
Optional
Yes
All 50 states
Enjoy low rates for mature drivers, plus perks like new car replacement and lifetime repair guarantees. Only for drivers over age 50.
Get quotes
More Info
Root
Root
52%
Available in 31 states
Track your driving to receive a low rate that reflects your driving skills, and enjoy a fully app-based policy experience.
Get quotes
More Info
Savvy
Savvy
Optional
Depends on provider
Yes
All states & DC
Get quotes in 30-seconds from 100+ companies, and save an average of $800 or more per year. Requires online login to your existing insurance.
Get quotes
More Info
Liberty Mutual
Liberty Mutual
Optional
30%
All 50 states & DC
Earn free accident forgiveness after five years claims-free and customize your policy anytime online at the tap of a button.
Get quotes
More Info
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Bottom line

You could save hundreds on your car insurance right now with a little comparison shopping. And over time, it’s possible to lower your rates even more. Compare car insurance policies today to find out how much you could save.

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