Thanks to the internet, getting an estimate for affordable car insurance is one of the easiest things you can do. We`ll share tips and tricks to find car insurance quotes by VIN, how you can get quotes started by just entering your ZIP code, and which sites are best to use. But always remember that while the price is an important consideration, there`s more to an insurance provider than premiums, so we`ll share a couple of other points to research.
Getting Car Insurance Quotes With a VIN
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A vehicle identification number (VIN) is unique to your vehicle. Even trailers, motorcycles, and RVs have VINs, and each one is like a fingerprint associated with just one vehicle. Some classic cars may not have a VIN, so you`ll have to contact your state department of motor vehicles to find out what process to follow to get one.
Car Insurance Rate Formulas
Car insurance companies base premiums on the risk represented by the policy. Some cars cost more to insure than others. The size of the engine, the body style, the safety features, and the age all contribute to the risk of filing a claim.
That`s why you`ll see that cars with equal purchase prices require different insurance premiums.
The Information in a VIN
The VIN gives a lot of information about a car. It offers access to the vehicle’s age, features, make, model, and more. So, getting a car insurance quote using a VIN eliminates the need to answer questions specific to the vehicle.
If you have an antique or legendary car, your VIN might not follow the same codes as modern vehicles, but if you drive a car from the 1980s and newer, your VIN is standardized.
Still, you`ll need more than a VIN to get an accurate quote. The type of vehicle you have is just one part of your insurance risk calculation. To provide a quote, an insurance company will need to know where you live, how many miles you drive annually, and your driving and claims history.
So, using a VIN can make getting a quote easier, but it`s not sufficient in itself.
Finding Your VIN
There are a few places you should be able to find your VIN. One of those places is on the driver`s side dashboard, viewable through the outside looking through your windshield.
Also, a sticker should be inside your driver`s side door jam with the VIN printed on it. You can also look for it on your insurance card, registration, or title.
Getting Car Insurance Quotes With a Zip Code
While a VIN provides a lot of information to a car insurance company, a ZIP code only provides little information. So while you can get a car insurance quote started with a ZIP code, you won`t be able to get an accurate quote without providing more information.
Using a car insurance comparison site to get a quote and beginning with your ZIP code will help the comparison site or insurance provider narrow down what insurance options are available in your state and region, but that`s as far as your ZIP code will get you.
Start with your ZIP code, include your VIN, and you`ll be well on your way to getting a quote. The information you`re likely to need from there will consist of your driving history, claims history, aftermarket parts on your car, and how many miles you drive annually.
Best Car Insurance Comparison Sites
The number one thing to remember when choosing a car insurance comparison site is that you should not have to pay for your quotes. While the site provides a service, it should be paid by the car insurance companies offering quotes on their sites and advertising, not by the consumer.
So, if you find a site that requires payment for a comparison, move along to a better site where you can get a quote for free.
Comparing car insurance quotes is the best way to find the company that offers the best premiums, and you can get started as quickly as entering your ZIP code. Adding your VIN will speed up the process, but you should still be prepared to answer a few more questions to get an accurate quote.