Finding affordable full coverage auto insurance can feel like a challenge, especially with rising premiums. However, with the right strategies, you can secure robust protection without breaking the bank.
In this guide, we’ll cover:
✔ What full coverage insurance includes
✔ Factors that affect your rates
✔ 10 proven ways to lower your premiums
✔ Best cheap full coverage insurance companies
What Is Full Coverage Auto Insurance?
Full coverage isn’t a single policy—it’s a combination of coverages that protect you and your vehicle comprehensively. Typically, it includes:
- Liability Insurance (covers damage/injuries you cause to others)
- Collision Insurance (covers repairs to your car after an accident)
- Comprehensive Insurance (covers non-collision damage like theft, fire, or weather)
- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage (protects you if the at-fault driver has no insurance)
Most lenders require full coverage if you’re leasing or financing a car.
What Affects Full Coverage Insurance Costs?
Insurers calculate premiums based on risk. Key factors include:
✅ Driving Record – Accidents and tickets increase rates.
✅ Age & Experience – Young drivers (under 25) pay more.
✅ Credit Score – Poor credit can double premiums in some states.
✅ Vehicle Type – Luxury, sports cars, and EVs cost more to insure.
✅ Location – Urban areas (with higher theft/accident rates) = higher premiums.
✅ Deductible – A higher deductible lowers monthly costs (but increases out-of-pocket repair costs).
10 Ways to Get Cheap Full Coverage Auto Insurance
1. Compare Quotes from Multiple Insurers
Rates vary dramatically between companies. Get at least 3-5 quotes from:
- National insurers (Geico, Progressive, State Farm)
- Regional providers (Erie, Auto-Owners)
- Online marketplaces (The Zebra, Gabi)
Pro Tip: Check rates every 6-12 months—loyalty doesn’t always pay.
2. Bundle Policies (Multi-Policy Discount)
Insuring multiple cars or bundling home + auto insurance with the same provider can save 10-25%.
3. Increase Your Deductible
Raising your deductible from 500→500→1,000 can cut premiums by 10-20%. Just ensure you can afford the higher out-of-pocket cost if you file a claim.
4. Improve Your Credit Score
In most states (except CA, HI, MA), better credit = lower rates. Ways to boost your score:
✔ Pay bills on time
✔ Reduce credit card balances
✔ Dispute errors on your report
5. Ask for Discounts
Many insurers offer hidden discounts, such as:
- Safe driver (no accidents in 3+ years)
- Good student (for teens with a B average)
- Low-mileage (driving < 7,500 miles/year)
- Anti-theft devices (alarms, GPS trackers)
6. Drive a Cheaper-to-Insure Car
Cars with high safety ratings and low theft/repair costs (e.g., Honda CR-V, Subaru Outback) are cheaper to insure than sports cars or luxury vehicles.
7. Take a Defensive Driving Course
Completing an approved course (like those from AAA) can earn you a 5-10% discount.
8. Drop Unnecessary Coverage
If your car is old (worth less than $3,000), consider dropping collision/comprehensive—the premiums may outweigh repair costs.
9. Pay Annually Instead of Monthly
Monthly payments often include fees. Paying upfront can save 3-5%.
10. Avoid Small Claims
Frequent claims increase premiums. If the repair cost is close to your deductible, consider paying out-of-pocket.
Best Cheap Full Coverage Auto Insurance Companies (2025)
| Company | Average Annual Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Geico | $1,300 | Low-risk drivers |
| State Farm | $1,450 | Bundling policies |
| Progressive | $1,500 | High-risk drivers |
| USAA | $1,200 (military only) | Veterans & families |
| Erie Insurance | $1,350 | Midwest drivers |
(Source: MarketWatch, NerdWallet 2024 data)
Final Tips to Save on Full Coverage
- Monitor your driving habits with telematics apps (Progressive Snapshot, State Farm Drive Safe & Save).
- Negotiate—ask your insurer if they can match a competitor’s rate.
- Check group discounts (employers, alumni associations).