Saving Money on Automobile Premiums

Luckily there are other ways than getting married (if you are single) or relocating to get your auto insurance costs down. One is comparison shopping. Like prices in a drug store, the cost of insurance can vary widely. The difference can be as much as hundreds of dollars for virtually the same policy.

If you have two or more cars, putting them all under the same policy may cost less per car. Same goes for having home and auto policies from the same company. Insurers also like to see some initiative, as when a driver takes a refresher course on safety. Insurance is cheaper for a boring car that a thief will ignore, particularly if it has safety devices such as dual air bags, anti-lock brakes, automatic seat belts, and reliable anti-theft features. Even parking in a garage rather on the street may qualify you for a discount.

If you can afford it, raise the deductible on your policy. You could see your premiums drop by as much as 10% if you do. If your drive to work is under 10 miles, you might qualify for the “pleasure-driving discount” given to many weekend-only drivers. Also ask about waivers such as those for windshield repair. Another trick is to pay your premium in an annual lump sum rather than every month or quarterly. This can save on service charges.