Finding dirt cheap car insurance has become a big challenge as rates have been rising for several years now. Many drivers simply can’t afford the steep raises in premiums and are desperate to find dirt-cheap rates. The good news is that anyone can use proven strategies to get more affordable coverage. 

Once you finish reading this guide on how to get dirt cheap auto insurance, you will be equipped with the tools to lower your coverage costs finally. At any time you can fill out a quote form and compare multiple online rates.

Proven Strategies for Getting Dirt Cheap Car Insurance

Finding affordable car insurance is no easy task these days as premiums rise and budgets tighten. However, by following these expert-recommended strategies, you can make significant savings on your car insurance. The following practical tips will help you get the lowest rates possible.

Score the Cheapest Car Insurance by Shopping Around Multiple Quotes   

If you ignore all the other tips in the guide make sure you shop around and compare all the quotes you can. Go online and get five or more direct quotes from national and regional insurers. You can also call up two or more brokers and see if they have lower rates for the coverage you’re looking for.  

Comparing quotes is important because every insurer has its own unique method for calculating rates, so costs can vary a lot between companies.  Take the time to get quotes from at least seven insurers. 

Bundle Several Policies And Get Big Discounts

Bundling policies like auto and homeowner’s insurance with the same provider can lead to substantial savings of up to 15%. Even if you don’t own a home, you might be able to bundle renter’s insurance or other types of coverage, like life insurance, to qualify for a bundling discount.

Choose a Higher Deductible and Go Low on Premiums

Your deductible is the amount you pay out of pocket before insurance kicks in. By opting for a higher deductible, you can lower your monthly premium because you’re taking on more risk. Consider a deductible of $1,000 or even higher. Doing so can save you 10% – 15%.

Quick Tip:  Make sure you set aside enough savings to cover the deductible if you get into a wreck and need to file a claim.

Opt for Usage-Based or Pay-Per-Mile Insurance and Save Big

For people who don’t drive much, like under 700 miles per month, a usage-based or pay-per-mile insurance plan can offer serious savings. These policies charge based on the number of miles driven, making them ideal for low-mileage drivers. Insurance companies often use telematics devices to track mileage and driving habits, offering discounts for careful driving.

Get online quotes from top pay-as-you-go car insurance companies like Metromile, Root Insurance, and Hugo Insurance, and see how much you can save.  

Grab Multiple Discounts for Dirt Cheap Car Insurance

Insurance providers offer a wide variety of discounts to attract customers. Make sure to try and qualify for every discount you can. Common discounts include good driver, military, multi-car, student, and even employer-based programs. A clean driving record or defensive driving course can often qualify you for discounts and savings. 

Improve Your Credit Score and Save

In most states, your credit score is a factor in determining your insurance rates. Insurance companies use credit information to predict the likelihood of filing a claim, meaning that higher credit scores can help reduce your premium. Improving your credit score through responsible credit card use and paying off debt can lead to savings on insurance over time.

Drive a Car That Costs Less to Insure

Not all vehicles cost the same to insure. Cars with high safety ratings, lower repair costs, and anti-theft devices generally cost less to insure. Avoid vehicles that are frequently stolen or expensive to repair, and look for vehicles that come with added safety features like anti-lock brakes or adaptive headlights.

Minimize Coverage on Older Vehicles

If your car is older and has a lower market value, consider limiting coverage by dropping collision and comprehensive insurance. These coverages often cost more than they’re worth on an older vehicle, and removing them can make a noticeable dent in your premium.

Maintain a Clean Driving Record for the Best Deals

A clean driving record is one of the best ways to get cheap car insurance. Traffic violations, accidents, and other infractions can increase your premiums significantly. Practicing safe driving habits not only lowers your risk of an accident but also ensures that you qualify for the best rates possible.

Call a Broker in addition to Direct Insurers

Insurance brokers can help you find dirt cheap car insurance by comparing policies from multiple providers. Brokers understand the market and can match you with a company that offers the best rate for your needs and budget.  Although brokers sometimes charge a fee, the savings they help you find can make it worthwhile to call them.

Limit Coverage for Teenage Drivers  to Keep Costs Down

Teen drivers are notoriously expensive to insure due to their inexperience. If you have a teenage driver, consider listing them as an occasional driver instead of the primary driver. Encourage them to take defensive driving courses and maintain good grades, as many insurers offer discounts for good students.

Drive Fewer Miles to Reduce Premiums

Insurance companies often consider mileage when determining rates; those who drive less are statistically less likely to be involved in accidents, which reduces risk. If possible, consider alternative commuting options, such as carpooling, biking, or public transit, to keep your annual mileage low. Some insurers offer special low-mileage discounts for drivers who can maintain low mileage throughout the year.

Avoid Unnecessary Add-Ons

Car insurance policies sometimes include add-ons that may not be necessary, such as roadside assistance, rental car coverage, or glass coverage. While these add-ons can be beneficial, they also increase premiums. Review your policy to determine if you really need each add-on. Dropping non-essential options can often lead to lower rates.

Reassess Your Coverage Based on Your Car’s Value

The value of your car decreases over time, which means that you may be paying for more coverage than needed if you haven’t reviewed your policy in a while. If your car is older and its market value is low, it may make sense to limit collision and comprehensive coverage. Consider the current market value of your vehicle and the cost of the deductible to see if it’s worth keeping these coverages.

Park in a Secure Location to Lower Risk

Where you park your car can influence your insurance rate. Cars parked in secure, less-risky locations like garages or gated driveways are generally less expensive to insure than those parked on the street. Letting your insurer know that your vehicle is parked in a safe location, particularly overnight, can reduce your premium.

Install Safety Features and Anti-Theft Devices for Cheap Premiums

Cars equipped with advanced safety features, such as anti-lock brakes, airbags, lane-assist, or rearview cameras, are less expensive to insure. Additionally, installing anti-theft devices like GPS trackers, alarms, or immobilizers can lower your premium. Contact your insurer to see which safety and anti-theft features qualify for discounts.

Regularly Review Your Policy

Finally, remember to review your insurance policy annually. Life circumstances change, and a policy that was once a good fit may no longer be the cheapest option available. Update your policy if you’ve paid off your car loan, changed jobs, moved, or have other life changes that could impact your coverage needs and rates. 

The Final Word On Dirt Cheap Car Insurance 

Getting dirt cheap car insurance requires taking a proactive approach. By following these 17 strategies, you’ll be on your way to lowering your premiums and putting more money back in your pocket. 

To compare dirt cheap car insurance where you live, enter your zip code and fill out a quick online quote. You’ll be matched with the lowest rates for the coverage you need.