January 1, 2011

How Extensive Vehicle Repairs Affect Auto Insurance Quotes

Paying for vehicle repairs can be a split decision: Should you foot the bill, or do you want your insurance company to pay? The latter part of that thought can force your auto insurance quotes to go up. It can be difficult to determine the actual value connected with paying for repairs yourself—it extends over time. If you can afford it, seriously consider absorbing the costs. You're under no obligation to use your insurance company to cover repair costs. And the long-term benefit of steady car insurance premiums will ultimately work to your favor.

There's no doubt that car insurance will get vehicle repairs done quickly - repair shops like dealing with insurers because their checks don't bounce. But the policyholder has to consider what's best for him, and for the vehicle in question, before making any decision about repairs. Getting affordable auto insurance quotes takes some careful study of competing insurance firms, while also recognizing that there is a difference between regular insurance and auto repair insurance. If you don't have a warranty to cover broken parts, than a repair insurance company can provide financial help. But that's all. Repair insurance companies don't cover anything else.

It's not unusual for insurance companies to adjust your auto insurance quotes based on added details that might emerge during initial negotiations between insured and insurer. Even repair insurance firms have different factors that can affect their rates. After considering the various specifics brought out by comparing the offers of several insurance companies, make the decision about which company gets your business. That doesn't always mean the insurer who quotes the lowest premiums should win out. Sometimes low priced auto insurance is just that, and isn't quite equipped to come through with the solid assistance you could need at some point.

Many insurance companies won't compensate you 100 percent if your car needs repair and you choose to have original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts installed. Insurers prefer aftermarket parts be used to repair your vehicle. This is particularly worrisome since OEM parts can cost almost twice what aftermarket parts bring to the game. Aftermarket parts have a couple of problems that you should consider before allowing them to be installed on your vehicle. They can decrease a vehicle's value and there are some questions about their safety. In the end, it's your decision to say where your vehicle will be repaired. And it's probably wise to go with OEM repair parts. But if your car or truck's resale value isn't much to begin with, then using aftermarket repair parts can keep your out-of-pocket expenses to a minimum.