Is insurance lower on a used car?

Asked by: Modesto Schaden  |  Last update: February 20, 2025
Score: 4.7/5 (19 votes)

In many cases, a used car can be cheaper to insure than a new one, especially if you carry comprehensive car insurance or auto collision coverage. Since used cars are generally worth less than new ones, they can be cheaper to repair or replace.

Is insurance on a used car cheaper?

The Bottom Line. Insurance is usually cheaper for used vehicles because it doesn't cost as much to repair and replace them as new cars.

Is car insurance cheaper for new or used?

While used cars generally offer lower insurance premiums, new cars with advanced safety features and responsible drivers can also enjoy affordable rates. It's crucial to consider all these factors and get quotes from many different insurers to make an educated decision.

What is the cheapest used car to insure?

Cars that are cheap to insure
  • Škoda Citigo.
  • Fiat 500.
  • SEAT Ibiza.
  • Volkswagen Polo.
  • Toyota Auris.
  • Renault Captur.
  • Volkswagen e-up!
  • Ford Fiesta.

Is it cheaper to insure an old or new car?

Used cars depreciate at a lower rate than new cars, which means that their value remains more stable over time. Since the value of a used car is lower than that of a new vehicle, the used car insurance premiums are generally lower from the outset and insurance costs generally decrease over time.

Is Used Car Insurance Cheaper? Used Car Insurance EXPLAINED!

18 related questions found

At what age is car insurance the cheapest?

Experienced drivers are less likely to have accident claims, which means they cost less to insure. At Progressive, the average premium per driver tends to decrease significantly from 19-34 and then stabilize or decrease slightly from 34-75. At age 75, the average premium begins trending upward.

How much does car insurance go up with a used car?

However, car insurance rates depend less on whether the car is used or new and more on the details of the vehicle and your policy, including the car's make and model, your location, and the amount of coverage that you carry. For the most part, there's no difference between insurance for used and new cars.

What is the cheapest reliable car to insure?

The Honda CR-V, Mazda CX-5, Jeep Wrangler and Subaru Outback are the cheapest cars to insure. All three have full coverage rates under $250 per month, on average.

Do old cars get cheaper insurance?

In general, auto insurance for older cars may be cheaper than insuring newer vehicles of the same make and model if the used car is cheaper to repair or replace. A car depreciates in value over time, which lowers the maximum amount an insurance company would have to pay in the event of an accident.

What is the cheapest car to insure for new drivers?

Cheapest cars to insure 2025: the shortlist
  • Hyundai i10.
  • Volkswagen Polo.
  • Skoda Fabia.
  • Kia Picanto.
  • Toyota Aygo X.
  • VW Caddy.
  • Fiat 500.
  • Dacia Sandero.

Why does my insurance go up when I replace a car?

Generally, a new car costs more to repair after an accident. New cars are also at a higher risk of break-ins or theft. So, if you're thinking about buying that dream car you've always wanted, talk to your insurance company about how your rates will be affected.

Does owning your car lower insurance?

Car insurance isn't automatically cheaper if you own your car, but it does open you up to savings that you couldn't have had with a car loan. Either way, you'll be saving your monthly car insurance payment, which will create some breathing room in your budget.

Will my insurance go up if I buy a new car?

Usually, getting a new car will increase your rate because it'll be worth more than your old car. Note that other factors may impact your car insurance rate if you're starting a brand-new auto insurance policy. But even if your rate increases, you may be eligible for a few car insurance discounts.

Does the price of your car affect your insurance?

When insuring a car, a major factor that affects cost is the vehicle's value. New cars generally have higher values so insurers consider this when determining premiums. Additionally, new cars can experience fast depreciation. Depreciation starts when a new car is driven off the lot, losing as much as 20% of its value.

What are the pros and cons of having a new car?

Buying a new car is a huge decision. On the one hand, a new car is shiny, smells great, and has all the latest technology and safety features. On the other hand, it's expensive, loses value quickly, and can come with a hefty monthly payment.

At what age is car insurance cheapest?

Car insurance typically drops as you grow older, when you drive safely for three to five years following an accident or citation, and when you switch to a cheaper company. Both men and women see the steepest drop in car insurance costs between ages 18 and 19.

At what point is full coverage not worth it?

Your vehicle holds a low value: As with collision, consider dropping comprehensive coverage if your vehicle's market value is lower than a few thousand dollars. Figure in your deductible as well and the potential insurance payout may not be worth the price of the coverage.

Can you get full coverage on a 20 year old car?

Yes. Full coverage is available for older cars. However, if your older car has a low market value, you won't get much from the insurance company if it's totaled or stolen. This is the main reason to drop full coverage for an older car with a low resale value.

Who generally has the cheapest car insurance?

Geico, Nationwide and Travelers are among the least expensive for car insurance.

How much is insurance for a used car?

The nationwide average annual car insurance policy for full coverage on a used car costs $1,867 yearly or $156 a month. Used car insurance rates depend on several factors, such as the make and model, where you live and your credit score.

Are discontinued cars cheaper to insure?

The short answer is that yes, in most cases older cars are cheaper to insure than new ones. That said, there are some limited exceptions to this rule. To help you decide on the right vehicle for you, here's an overview of car insurance for older cars.

Should you get full coverage on a used car?

While most states don't require you get full insurance coverage when purchasing a car, many finance lenders who want to protect their investments require full coverage regardless of whether your car is gently used or new.

Is it cheaper to insure an older car?

Whether or not car insurance is cheaper for older cars depends on several factors. While new cars may be more expensive to insure due to their higher value, older cars can also be costly. A vehicle that holds its value over time may be more expensive to insure than one that depreciates quickly.

How does insurance decide the value of your car?

The ACV depends on multiple factors, including the year, make, model, vehicle options, mileage, wear and tear, and accident history. If you disagree with the insurance company's estimate of your vehicle's value, you may be able to negotiate with them for a higher payout.