Cut your BMW 320i Insurance Rates in Five Minutes
If buying auto insurance was as easy as it sounds on TV commercials, we'd have no problem getting the lowest rates. But the premiums we pay always seem to be too high and most of use would rather get a tooth pulled. Cutting the check for each renewal on your BMW 320i might give you the same feeling.
Step One: Compare Multiple Rate Quotes
Years ago, your local insurance agent was the only way to quote a buy a car insurance policy. But you can now comparison shop and buy direct online!
Almost every car insurance company now offers online quotes, and you can actually get insurance quotes for a BMW 320i without even visiting their websites!
Simply click the link below to start a quote that will compare rates from many companies and you may find a lower rate than you're currently paying.
Same Limits on Quotes! This tip is very important. The only way to accurately compare rates on your 320i is to use the same limits of liability as well as deductibles on physical damage coverage. You won't be able to compare rates if you use different values on your quotes.
Step Two: Tried and True Ways to Save on 320i Insurance
If you have completed step one above (if not, please complete that step first), then you are now ready to learn some ways to insure your 320i that will also lower the rate you pay irregardless of which company you choose.
- If you need the extra performance that your BMW 320i gives you, then you'll have to pay extra to insure it. Higher performance cars tend to be more expensive to insure.
- Driver's safety courses will often get you a discount off your rates. Check to see if your company offers the discount and find a qualifying class in your area.
- The cost to repair luxury vehicles is generally more than the cost to repair your average domestic family sedan. Everything from paint to bumpers to windshields costs more for the 320i so expect to pay more for insurance.
- If you are a senior citizen or belong to a particular professional organization, you may qualify for a break on insurance.
- Zero to 60 is pretty fast in with a 320i, but having this extra power will cost you in the form of a bigger insurance bill.
- If your insurance company allows driver-specific car rating, you can save money by rating any teenage drivers on low profile vehicles with either no physical damage coverage or very high deductibles.
- A claim-free discount can help keep your rates down, so don't file claims that are only marginally more than your deductible. You're better off keeping the discount.
- Each year make a habit of checking your credit score. If you find problems that may be dragging down your credit rating, address them immediately. This will result in significant savings on car insurance.
- Renting a house or apartment rather than owning a home may keep you from paying the lowest rates on car insurance. Home ownership is viewed as being more financially responsible than renting.
- Comprehensive and collision coverages make up the majority of your car insurance bill. If you raise your deductibles, you can will see significant savings with every policy renewal.
- Newer car models are coming standard with advanced passenger safety systems, and these help reduce the risk of injury in an accident. Less injuries mean lower insurance rates.
- If you have a speeding ticket or other moving violation, you could be charged more for insurance. If you get a ticket, find out if your county or state offers a defensive driving course that will void the ticket upon completion.
- Do not allow your current car insurance coverage to lapse or expire. Insurance companies have a simple way to find out when your last policy ended (called a CLUE report), and if you went without coverage for any length of time you may pay more for coverage.
- Reduce your rates by buying a car that is not a hot model for car thieves. Certain makes and models are more tempting than others, and high-frequency stolen vehicles get charged a higher rate.
Step Three: Finalize your Policy Details
Knowing which company to insure your 320i with is more than just choosing the lowest rate. You also need to be ready to put a down payment on your policy and make sure you have all the proper coverages in place.
It's critical that your new policy starts the same day that your old policy ends. If you are cancelling mid-term, make sure there is no lapse in coverage before your new policy kicks in.
Before you drive your BMW 320i home, make sure you have a current car insurance policy in force. Coverage will extend to the new purchase from your policy, but if you don't have a policy then you have no protection. Comprehensive (or Other than Collision) and collision coverage will extend to your new 320i if you current have a vehicle insured with those coverages. If you aren't insured or only carry basic liability coverage, then you will be inadequately insured until you add the vehicle to your policy with full coverage.
Your insurance company will provide you with proof-of-insurance forms to keep in your vehicle. It's required by state law to carry at least the state minimum liability limits. If you're considered a high-risk driver, having been convicted of a DUI, DWI, reckless driving or had your license suspended, you may need to file a SR-22. Be sure your new company files this form with your state DMV. Failure to do so can result in losing your right to drive.
Consumer Insurance Information
The Insurance Information Institute is the industry authority for consumer car insurance information.