With New Year’s Day in the rearview, you’ve had time to brush up on all the latest vehicle models. And to make purchasing a new car even more tempting, you may be receiving a tax return check in the mail soon. But before you head to the dealership to sign on the dotted line, contact an agent to ask about the auto insurance rates you'll pay. Some vehicles cost more to insure than you'd expect, so you’ll want to factor this into your budget.

What Affects Car Insurance Rates?

Insurers take your driving record and personal characteristics into account when assigning rates, but the vehicle itself is the biggest factor. The cost of the car is important, of course; the higher the sticker price, the more you'll pay to insure it. But other factors apply as well. For instance, four-wheel-drive vehicles are more complicated and expensive to repair, so they’re often much costlier to insure than is commonly assumed. Because of their high-performance engines and the possible temptation to speed on the open road, sports cars will get you a pricier premium, too.

Another point to keep in mind: Banks that finance auto loans often require low deductibles and high limits to protect their investment. If you've been paying for basic liability on a paid-off car, the new rates might surprise you.

How Can You Lower Your Rates?

If the vehicle has anti-theft or safety devices—airbags, anti-lock brakes, lane-changing sensors, etc.—installed, you can often qualify for a discount. And if you buy more than one policy with the same insurer—auto and motorcycle insurance, for example—you’ll likely pay less for each. If the vehicle is for your teenaged son or daughter, they may qualify for a "good student" discount if they earn good grades. Your auto insurance agent can tell you if you qualify for any of these.

To check the auto insurance rates you'll pay before buying that new car you want, contact Aaron Insurance Agency in Dothan, AL. They've been providing affordable car, motorcycle, and RV insurance to clients in and around Houston County for nearly two decades. Because they’re an independent agency, they can shop for the best rates and policies from their wide network of providers. Visit their website or call (334) 712-0777 to request a car insurance quote.