When purchasing a new vehicle, many drivers are tempted to keep the same old auto insurance coverage limits or do whatever they can to lower their rate.
But finding the best auto insurance, like shopping for a new car, is about much more than the sticker price. So let’s uncover why shopping for insurance and a new ride often go hand in hand – and how a local pro like an ERIE insurance agent can help.
What to ask an insurance agent before buying a new car
When you’re in the market for a new vehicle, one of the smartest things you can do is talk to a local car insurance agent before you buy. Why? A local agent can offer insurance tips and potential ways to save on your new purchase. For example:
- What will it cost to insure the different makes and models I’m considering?
- Is there a significant difference in cost of parts or labor for the cars I’m looking at?
- Am I eligible for any new auto insurance discounts?
- Do I need to make any changes to my policy when I buy my new car?
- Are there any coverage gaps I need to be aware of?
Remember: If you’re buying a new car, proof of insurance may be required before driving your new car off the lot. If you’re already a customer, your local agent is just a phone call away to help you provide the right documentation to show the dealer before you take it home. If you’re an existing ERIE customer, you can access your insurance ID card through your ERIE Online Account.
Even if you can’t get ahold of your agent because you’re purchasing on the weekend or after hours, your ERIE policy automatically covers your new car. Just make sure to give your agent a call first thing on Monday.
Will buying a new car affect my auto insurance rate?
Chances are when you buy a new car, your monthly auto insurance premiums will change, too.
That’s because your auto insurance rate depends on a number of different factors, including the car you drive. And each insurance company may look at these factors, such as your vehicle’s safety ratings and cost of repairs, differently.
Generally, cars with higher safety ratings and anti-theft devices can help lower your rate. But those features could be more expensive to repair after an accident, too. On the other hand, older cars may be cheaper to fix, but they often aren’t equipped with high-tech safety features to help prevent accidents.
When getting quotes for insurance, keep in mind that your driving history impacts your insurance rate more than what you drive. So regardless of the make and model you choose, being a safe driver can go a long way.
What type of coverage do I need for my new car?
Your first thought may be to look for the lowest price, but don’t let the excitement of a new car push you toward bare-bones coverage that can leave you vulnerable to dangerous coverage gaps.
Your local ERIE agent can help you find that sweet spot where you can get customized coverage that protects you and respects your budget. If you’re buying a new car, make sure to ask about these options:
- Auto Security: It’s true: Your new car depreciates the moment you drive it off the lot. But that doesn’t mean your insurance coverage should, too. With the Auto Security1 endorsement, if your new car gets totaled, ERIE will pay you the cost to replace it with the newest comparable model year (minus your deductible). And if you’ve had your car longer than two years, ERIE will pay the cost to replace it with a comparable model that is up to two years newer and up to 30,000 fewer miles than the current mileage of your car, minus the deductible.
- ERIE Rate Lock®: Avoid car insurance rate increases with the ERIE Rate Lock® feature. Even if you have a claim, your rates won’t change until you make certain changes to your auto insurance policy, such as adding or removing a vehicle or a driver from your policy or changing your primary residence.2 (New York customers: Ask about ERIE Rate ProtectSM.)
- ERIE Auto Plus®: Enhance your coverage with features such as diminishing deductible. 3
A local insurance agent can also explain what kind of coverage you’d need to cover common types of claims, such as windshield chips or hitting a deer.
Buying a new car? Get a quote with ERIE
With the right insurance company, quality coverage starts and ends with your agent. Learn more about our auto insurance coverage.
Every ERIE policy comes with a local agent ready to walk you through the entire process and answer your questions — because you deserve an auto policy that’s personal, fair and affordable.
Contact your local ERIE agent and learn how we can help you protect your new set of wheels and travel with you on the journey ahead.
