As a car owner, insurance is a necessary expense to protect yourself and your vehicle—however, car insurance is a burden on your budget. The good news is that there are ways to save money on your car insurance without compromising the quality of your coverage.
Choose a higher deductible
A deductible is the amount you agree to pay out of pocket before your insurance coverage kicks in. By opting for a higher deductible, you lower your monthly premiums. For example, increasing your deductible from $500 to $1,000 could reduce your premium by 10% to 20%. Make sure you have enough savings to cover the higher deductible if you need to file a claim.
Maintain a good credit score
Credit score impact on your car insurance rates in many states. Insurance companies often use credit-based insurance scores to assess risk and determine premiums.
To keep your car insurance costs down:
- Pay your bills on time
- Keep your credit balances low
- Avoid opening too many new credit accounts at once
Maintaining a good credit score demonstrates to insurers that you’re a responsible and low-risk customer, potentially leading to lower premiums.
Take advantage of low mileage
They are may be eligible for a low mileage discount if you don’t drive your insurance for auto very often or have a short commute. Many insurers offer discounts to drivers who put fewer than 7,500 or 10,000 miles on their vehicles annually. If you work from home, carpool, or primarily use public transportation, let your insurance company know – you could save money on your premiums for car insurance.
Install safety and anti-theft devices
Insurance companies often offer discounts for vehicles with safety features and anti-theft devices.
- Anti-lock brakes
- Airbags
- Daytime running lights
- Car alarms
- GPS tracking systems
By making your car safer and less likely to be stolen, you reduce your risk profile and potentially qualify for lower insurance rates.
Take a defensive driving course
Completing a defensive driving course can demonstrate to insurers that you’re committed to being a safe and responsible driver. Many insurance companies offer discounts to policyholders who complete an approved defensive driving course. These courses can be taken online or in person and typically last a few hours. Not only do you save money on your insurance, but you’ll also learn valuable skills to help you avoid accidents on the road.
Choose a car that is cheap to insure
The make and model of your vehicle have a significant impact on your insurance costs. Some cars are more expensive to insure due to higher repair costs, increased risk of theft, or poor safety ratings.
When shopping for a new car, consider the following factors that influence insurance premiums:
- Safety features
- Size and engine power
- Theft rates for the make and model
- Average repair costs
You can save money on your premiums without sacrificing quality or safety by choosing a cheaper car to insure.
