Risk is the main factor behind car insurance rates. A high risk of getting into an accident or sustaining an injury will make insurance premiums rise. Something insurers look at when determining risk is the condition of the vehicle being insured. Certain types of problems have a direct effect on premiums. Four car issues might be causing high insurance rates.
1. Poor or Missing Safety Features
Cars that are missing safety features or that have features that do not operate correctly can cause insurance rates to rise. This could mean uncharged airbags, no anti-lock brakes and door locks that do not work. Some older vehicles might even be missing seat belts or head restraints. All of these problems increase the chance of theft, accidents or injuries during a collision. The solution is to repair or install safety features so the car presents less of a risk.
2. Malfunctioning Electrical System
Issues with the electrical system in a car can lead to high insurance rates. A worn or damaged electrical system will not work consistently. Turn lights might not activate, warning lights could be on constantly and dashboard readouts could be inaccurate. These all create a vehicle that is dangerous on the roadways even under the best conditions. Drivers who have a car with electrical issues will need to have the entire system inspected and repaired by a professional technician or mechanic before they can pass inspections and qualify to register their car.
3. Rust on the Chassis and Underbody
The stereotype of rusted cars having higher insurance rates is based in reality. Rust and corrosion that appears on the chassis, under-body and other parts of the car will increase insurance premiums. The reason is that the rust is slowly reducing the overall structural integrity and safety of the vehicle. Rust on the under-body could be affecting the frame or essential components like the transmission. Rust can lead to a catastrophic failure that causes a serious accident. Rust is difficult to repair once it has spread across the car. This can also work in the opposite direction. If you have an expensive car that would cost a lot to replace, your rates will often be very high.
4. Wrong or Worn Tires
Cars that have worn tires or incorrect tires are inherently unsafe to drive on public roads. Bad tires can increase insurance rates. One issue is tires that are the wrong size for the car. Another issue is tires that have worn treads reducing traction on the road. According to the experts at simpletire.com, both can cause problems with handling and breaking that lead to an accident. A solution is to visit an online store to select a set of new tires that are the proper size for the vehicle. Good tires can help reduce high insurance premiums.
As painful as it might be to admit, the problem with your insurance rates may be that you simply have too much car for your current life situation. More expensive cars cost more to insure. Also, if you are 18 and decide you need to drive a new Mustang, realize that insurance companies will trust you less and charge you more.
