How to lower your car insurance

Auto insurers reprice constantly, and loyalty is rarely rewarded. If you haven't shopped your policy in a couple of years, there's a good chance you're overpaying. Here's where to focus, roughly in order of impact.

1. Compare carriers — the biggest lever

For the exact same driver and coverage, premiums can vary by hundreds of dollars a year between insurers. Comparing quotes is almost always the single most effective way to cut your bill. Getting quotes uses a soft inquiry and doesn't affect your credit.

2. Bundle and stack discounts

• Bundle auto with home or renters for a multi-policy discount.
• Ask about safe-driver, multi-vehicle, good-student, and low-mileage discounts.
• Telematics / safe-driving programs can help if you're a low-risk driver.

3. Right-size deductibles and coverage

Raising your deductible lowers your premium — just make sure you could comfortably cover it after a claim. On older vehicles, it can also make sense to drop collision/comprehensive once the premium approaches the car's value. Keep your liability limits high enough to protect your assets, though — that's not the place to cut corners.

4. Keep your profile clean

Safe driving, and in many states a healthy credit-based insurance score, lower your rate over time. Tickets and at-fault accidents raise it — but their impact fades after a few years.