Even before The Fast And The Furious made it’s debut, car modifications were popular. Not only were car mods a great way to increase your car’s performance, they also increased your car insurance premiums as well. Adding more horses under the hood, or tricking out your body kit, are almost guaranteed ways to jack your premiums higher than your chassis.
However, some car mods are known to actually decrease your insurance costs. They can also increase fuel efficiency, and have other economic benefits as well. Here are several ways you can mod your car to reduce your premiums:
Green Mods
Converting your engine to a bio-diesel, or a gas/electric hybrid are great ways to improve your gas mileage and save money at the pump. In many states, car insurance providers will also give you a “Green Car Discount” of up to 15% on your premium. Saving money two ways for one modification is never a bad idea. These mods can help even if your financial situation becomes stressful, since hybrid or electric cars fetch more cash in a car title loan.
Even if a green conversion has some high upfront costs, you can save a lot of money over time. In fact, it is possible to recoup the cost of the conversion on gas in the first year alone. Taking into consideration the average car’s gas mileage of 20 MPG and convert it to the average hybrid’s gas mileage of 53 MPG, that will net you an average yearly savings of $1,438. Now, factor in a 15% reduction on your insurance per year and you’ll be racking up some serious savings.
Tracking
A uncommonly known fact is that cars with GPS tracking can qualify for lower premiums. Trackers are especially important for travellers, since owners could be forced to occasionally leave their cars in insecure environments. Installing a hidden GPS tracker is a great way lower insurance costs and give drivers the confidence of knowing where their car is at all times.
Even if the auto does get stolen, users can simply use an app on their smartphone and determine exactly where the car is located within seconds. Just give that information to the police, and you’ll have your car back soon and there will be one less car thief on the streets to worry about. Getting a GPS tracker installed is practically a public service to your community.
Anti-Theft
Any anti-theft devices that make it more difficult for thieves to successfully steal your vehicle are a good idea. Many cars today come standard with a few basic anti-theft devices, but adding to those will go a long way to giving you peace of mind and a fatter wallet. Some anti-theft devices include:
- Car alarms
- Electronic locks or keyless lock device
- Tubular locks. These locks that can only be unlocked by a tube-shaped key with over 50,000 tumbler combinations.
- Non-passive fuel cut off devices
- Many more. Consult your provider to see what anti-theft mods qualify
Be sure to inform your car insurance provider of any modifications to your car so that you can get the most accurate quote possible. You are legally obligated to report all modifications to your insurance provider, whether or not they are “good” or “bad” for your premium. Modding your car to lower your insurance probably won’t win you many pink slips out on the streets, but it will help you win the race to having a big bank account. For frequent travelers, these mods are an effective way to save serious cash.