Insurance for a New Car: What You Should Consider
Will your next car affect your insurance premiums?
iStock
If you’re looking to buy a car, the one you choose can affect how much you pay for auto insurance. Here are three factors that may impact your insurance for a new car—and three ways to reduce rates.
Vehicle cost is one of the main factors insurance companies consider when setting your insurance rate. The reason is simple: Repairs and parts for a luxury car will carry a higher price than they would for an economy car. Whether an expensive car is damaged a little or a lot, it will cost more to fix than a cheaper car, and that’s why it can cost more to insure.
Another factor in insurance for a new car: its make and model. The faster a car can go, the greater the risk of a crash—and greater risk means higher insurance rates. A car with a lot of horsepower will likely be driven faster than something like a minivan.
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety performs crash tests on new cars and publishes their findings at IIHS.org. A car that gets good ratings is going to be safer to drive and cost less to insure. Technology like automatic emergency braking and lane-departure warning systems can help prevent crashes, and air bags and passive-restraint seat belts can help minimize injury if a collision does occur.
Insurance for a New Car: What It Means for You
The best way to learn what you’ll pay for insurance is to talk to your agent. Identify several vehicle models you’re considering so the agent can give you insurance quotes to compare and answer questions about coverage. With the insurance information you need, you’ll be one step closer to driving your new car.
Looking to buy a new or used car? The AAA Auto Buying Program helps you search top brands and get member pricing up front from the comfort of home.
Start Your SearchThree Ways to Get a Great Insurance Rate
1. Maintain a good driving record. Car insurance rates are based on the risk of your having a car crash. A good driving record is usually an indication that you’re a safe driver, and it will help keep your insurance rates down.
2. Set a higher deductible. Talk with your agent about an amount you can afford, because you’ll be responsible for paying that deductible if you make a claim.
3. Avoid submitting small claims. When the cost of a repair is only marginally higher than your deductible, it may make sense to pay for it out of pocket instead of submitting a claim, which could end up raising rates.