When I bought my Subaru, the dealer told me that the safety features would lower my insurance rate. But when I checked with my provider, they said no such discount exists.
My renewal statement does show discounts for things like antilock brakes and traction control, but none for the specific safety features my car has.
My rate has gone up by $120 a month in the last six months, so I’m shopping around again. I’m currently with Allstate, but I wanted to see who’s getting the best rates and where. Paying $400 a month for one car with a clean record is just crazy.
$158 total for full coverage with a $500 deductible through State Farm in Michigan for both my Crosstrek and F-150. A lot depends on the state—Michigan tends to have the highest insurance rates in the country.
ChrisBunnet said: @Ashton
Did they give you a discount for the safety features? I’ve heard mixed things from dealers and insurance agents.
Not sure. My statement lists discounts for anti-theft, multi-car, accident-free, and a general ‘vehicle safety’ discount, but it doesn’t break down which safety features are included. Either way, it’s a lot cheaper than what you’re paying.
@Ashton
Appreciate the info! A coworker has State Farm and gave me their agent’s number. I’ll call during lunch and see if I can get a better deal. My insurance is almost as much as my car payment.
ChrisBunnet said: @Ashton
Appreciate the info! A coworker has State Farm and gave me their agent’s number. I’ll call during lunch and see if I can get a better deal. My insurance is almost as much as my car payment.
I have State Farm too. My agent was surprised at how low my rate was when I got a new vehicle—$159 for 6 months.
@ChrisBunnet
Yeah, it depends on the person. When I tried switching, no other company could match their price for the same coverage. Make sure you’re comparing the actual policy details, not just the price.
Discounts are usually built in. Rates can go up based on how many claims happen in a certain area, so it’s always good to shop around.
At some point, though, it can be better to stick with one company long-term. Some insurers won’t drop you if you’ve been with them for 20+ years. My parents have been with the same company since 1967, and even after my mom totaled two cars and my dad racked up a bunch of tickets, they didn’t get dropped. Their rates went up, but at least they still had coverage.
If you qualify, USAA has some of the best rates. You need to be active or retired military, or a spouse or child of someone who is. Been with them for years, and their customer service is top-notch.
BillSmith said:
If you qualify, USAA has some of the best rates. You need to be active or retired military, or a spouse or child of someone who is. Been with them for years, and their customer service is top-notch.
Esurance has always been the cheapest for me—$83 a month with $500 deductibles and high coverage levels. That was for a 2014 Mazda 3. My rate dropped into the $70s at one point, but a speeding ticket bumped it back up.
Willie said:
Insurance is mostly based on credit scores.
Crazy how a number pulled out of a computer determines so much. I’ve never even seen an insurance company check my credit, and if they did, I don’t know why mine would be high.