Car insurance is one of the largest bills I am faced with every month. It seems like every milestone such as turning 25, expunging traffic violations from my driving history and taking defensive driving courses are always counteracted by inflation and higher general insurance costs.
While I may never get my premium to where I want it, I was able to get my insurance costs lowered substantially just by reporting some of the safety features and add-ons that came on my new car. Here is a list of some of the add-ons that will pay for themselves by lowering your insurance premiums.
Anti-Lock Brakes
Anti-Lock brakes are standard fare on most new vehicles these days, and are often overlooked as a safety feature by drivers. My state makes it mandatory for insurance companies to offer a discount for vehicles with an ABS system, and in is one of the only features that my insurance provider directly inquires about on the quote application.
Anti-Theft Device
Not only does an anti-theft device such as an alarm or GPS tracking system make it more likely to catch a thief in the act, it also lowers the chances of auto theft in the first place. An alarm works best as a deterrent to potential thieves, and car insurance companies know this. Discounts related to anti-theft devices are often the largest for any single add-on, and will pay for the addition of a basic system over the life of your car.
Automatic or Adjustable Seat belts with Pretensioners
Every production model includes seat belts standard these days. It is against the law to be a passenger in a vehicle and not wear one, but that doesn’t mean everyone does so. If your vehicle has automatic seat belts, it increases the likelihood that everyone is properly restrained. If your vehicle includes adjustable seat belts, passengers can make sure the belt is fitted correctly over their shoulder and is comfortable. A seat belt that is comfortable is not only more likely to be used, but is also more effective during an accident.
Safe Bumpers
When I was looking at buying a 2010 Ford Mustang, I knew that the insurance costs would be astronomical. An eager car salesman relayed the information to me that the Ford Mustang has front and rear bumpers that are rated for +5 mph over government standards and that notifying my insurance company of this fact would likely lower my rate. I found out that national companies had already factored this into their quote, but a local company did indeed offer a discount of $8 per month. Make sure to discuss all safety features with your insurance agent to make sure they are being considered in your quote.
Tire Pressure Monitoring System
A safety feature that is becoming more common and offers a relatively substantial discount is tire pressure monitoring systems. Many full sized trucks such as the Chevy Silverado have a system installed from the factory. Besides the safety benefits and insurance savings, you will also save money on gas by keeping your tires properly inflated.
Extra Airbags
Driver and passenger airbags are almost universally included on all models in 2011. Automakers currently produce a handful of models with up to eight airbags. If your car includes side and curtain air bags, or impact airbags on the rear seats, you will definitely want to make sure your insurance provider is aware of them. Starting in 2008, the Lexus LX570 had a total of 10 airbags, and the Hyundai Genesis has 8 as standard equipment.