Is it cheaper to insure a new car or a used car?

Asked by: Lori Parker  |  Last update: February 11, 2022
Score: 4.2/5 (23 votes)

Insuring a used car is usually cheaper than insuring a new one. Newer cars are more expensive to repair. ... New cars are more valuable and, as such, generally more expensive to repair. Insurance companies take this into account when calculating premiums.

Is it more expensive to insure a new or old car?

Older cars are cheaper to insure than newer cars, all else being equal. An older vehicle is cheaper to insure mainly because older cars are less valuable, so an insurer won't have to pay out as much in the event of a total loss.

Is insurance higher for used cars?

Is it cheaper to insure a used car? Used cars are typically cheaper to insure than new ones, but not always. Our used vehicle insurance rates tool gives you an average cost, so you don't have to call or go online to get a quote for every car you see in your car search.

Does buying a new car lower your insurance?

How much is insurance for a new car? Usually, getting a new car will increase your rate because it'll be worth more than your old car.

How can I reduce my insurance rates?

Listed below are other things you can do to lower your insurance costs.
  1. Shop around. ...
  2. Before you buy a car, compare insurance costs. ...
  3. Ask for higher deductibles. ...
  4. Reduce coverage on older cars. ...
  5. Buy your homeowners and auto coverage from the same insurer. ...
  6. Maintain a good credit record. ...
  7. Take advantage of low mileage discounts.

What's the Cost of Buying a New Car vs Used Car?

20 related questions found

Why do some cars cost more to insure?

High-End Cars, Higher Premiums

And as a general rule, more expensive cars cost more to insure because of the increased costs associated with repairing them, replacing parts — especially on foreign brands — or replacing the vehicle in the event of a total loss.

Are used cars less expensive to insure?

Unfortunately, used cars are not necessarily cheaper to insure than new cars. Depending on the car model and insurer you choose, you may see very different insurance rates for an older vehicle. Some insurers charge less for older vehicles than new ones; others charge more.

Why you should buy a used car?

Here are the biggest reasons you should be buying a used vehicle: Save money on the purchase price – if you can live without the new-car smell. ... Lower insurance rates, because one of the key factors in the cost is the vehicle's value. You can drive a “better” car than you might be able to afford otherwise.

What color of car statistically has the lowest crash rates?

We've referenced the safest color car on the road. That color is white. White cars are 12 percent less likely to be involved in an accident than black cars at any time of the day under any conditions.

What are two advantages with buying a new car?

The Pros:
  • Low Interest Rates. The continual and historic low interest rates set by the Federal Reserve has trickled down to auto loans, as well. ...
  • Warranties. Most vehicles come with a manufacturer's warranty that, on average, covers three years or 60,000 miles. ...
  • Latest Technology. ...
  • Depreciation. ...
  • Insurance. ...
  • Return on Investment.

Is it better for a first time car buyer to buy new or used?

The best way to save money is to buy used. A new car loses almost half its value in the first five years, so go for one that's a few years old yet still has contemporary safety features and many useful years ahead of it. Buying used also means a nicer car for the money than possible if buying new.

What month is it best to buy a car?

What Is the Best Month to Buy a Car? In addition to certain times of the week or holidays, some months are better to buy or lease new vehicles or purchase used cars than other months. In general, May, October, November, and December are the best months to visit the car dealership.

What are the disadvantages of buying a used car?

9 Disadvantages of Buying a Used Car
  • Not Made to Order. When you buy a new car, it's made to order. ...
  • Little to No Warranty. ...
  • Old Technology. ...
  • Possibly Less Safe. ...
  • Worse Fuel Efficiency. ...
  • Little to No Financing. ...
  • High Maintenance. ...
  • Previous Owners.

Do you need comprehensive insurance on an older car?

Comprehensive coverage is usually not required by states. The value of your vehicle will dictate whether you need comprehensive coverage. If your vehicle is older and is not worth as much, you may be able to reduce your insurance premium by avoiding comprehensive and collision coverage.

How does automobile insurance work?

Car insurance covers damage to your vehicle and protects you financially if you're liable for someone else's injuries or damages. Auto insurance can also pay for medical bills if you or your passengers are injured in an accident or you're hit by an uninsured or underinsured driver.

Does insurance go up the more you drive?

Your driving record is taken into account when you get your auto policy—the more driving risk you've demonstrated in the past, the more you might have to pay for your auto insurance premiums.

Does it cost more to insure an SUV than a car?

While the average cost of an SUV far surpasses that of a sedan, car insurance costs may also differ substantially. Although rates will depend on your car insurance company and model, SUVs are typically $314 per year cheaper to insure than sedans.

Does car insurance depend on the car?

The car you drive – The cost of your car is a major factor in the cost to insure it. Other variables include the likelihood of theft, the cost of repairs, its engine size and the overall safety record of the car. Automobiles with high quality safety equipment might qualify for premium discounts.

How much should a first-time car buyer put down?

Just as with buying a home, most lenders like to see a down payment that's at least 20% of the car's price. (If you're buying a used car from a dealership, a 10% down payment is generally sufficient.)

What should you not say to a car salesman?

10 Things You Should Never Say to a Car Salesman
  • “I really love this car” ...
  • “I don't know that much about cars” ...
  • “My trade-in is outside” ...
  • “I don't want to get taken to the cleaners” ...
  • “My credit isn't that good” ...
  • “I'm paying cash” ...
  • “I need to buy a car today” ...
  • “I need a monthly payment under $350”

What is the biggest mistake that first-time car buyers make?

Almost always, a car will end up costing you more than the sticker price — and not anticipating the true cost is “the absolute biggest mistake first-time buyers make,” says former car salesman Matt Jones, who is now the senior manager of insights at Edmunds, a car-review site.

What are 3 benefits to purchasing a used car?

9 Advantages of Buying a Used Car Instead of New
  • Buying a Used Car Saves You Money. ...
  • Bulk of Depreciation Has Already Occurred.
  • No Exaggerated Fees.
  • Lower Customization Costs. ...
  • Certified and Thoroughly Inspected. ...
  • Warranties. ...
  • Lower Insurance Premiums.
  • Better for the Environment.

Is buying a brand new car a waste of money?

Buying a new car can be a good investment in some limited circumstances, but generally speaking, few cars could ever really be considered as good investments because they are almost always depreciating rather than appreciating in value.