6 Ways to Lower Car Insurance Costs

Car insurance is an often overlooked expense where you could find some significant savings. There are many things you can do both today and over time to lower your car insurance payments.

1. Shop around. Car insurance rates vary considerably from company to company for similar coverage levels. When it’s time to renew your policy, get quotes from several companies to make sure you’re getting the best deal.
2. Consider bundling your insurance. If you have homeowner’s insurance you may want to consider using the same provider for your car insurance. Kelly Blue Book reports that bundling your home and car insurance policies could save you about 10% per year.
3. Install a driving monitor. Many insurance companies now offer discounts when you install a device that lets them monitor your driving habits. Some insurance companies give steep discounts of up to 30% for drivers who do not display any alarming tendencies (such as speeding or slamming on your brakes).
4. Ask for a mileage discount. If you drive less than the average driver then you may want to ask your insurance provider for a mileage discount. If you travel less than 5,000 miles annually you could save on your insurance policy.
5. Improve your credit score. There are many benefits to having a good credit score including lowering your insurance rate. According to WalletHub there is a 49% difference in the cost of auto insurance for someone with excellent credit compared to drivers with no credit history. Having a higher credit score could save you a significant amount.
6. Hit the books. Teens who earn high grades are often rewarded with a discount on their car insurance. Insurers rely on research that has shown teens who perform well in school are typically more responsible drivers, thus less likely to receive driving tickets or be involved in a wreck.