Does the Colour of Your Car Affect Your Insurance?
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Does the Colour of Your Car Affect Your Insurance?
You’ve probably heard someone say, “Red cars are more expensive to insure.” It’s a claim that’s been around for years, and while it might sound convincing, the truth is a little different. At Autosmart, we believe in keeping drivers informed, so we’re breaking down this common myth and explaining what really affects your insurance premium. Let’s put it to rest and find out if the colour of your car affects your insurance.
Where the Red Car Myth Comes From
The “red car myth” likely comes from the idea that red cars are flashy and therefore more likely to be driven fast, or catch the eye of law enforcement. While it’s true that some performance cars are more commonly red, the colour itself has no direct impact on your insurance rates. In fact, most insurance companies don’t even ask for your car’s colour when calculating a quote.
How Insurance Companies Determine Car Insurance Rates
Insurance premiums are based on risk, specifically, the risk of your car being involved in an accident or needing a claim. Insurers calculate this using a wide range of factors, including:
- Your driving record
- The make, model, and year of your vehicle
- Your age and gender
- Where you live and park your car
- How often and how far you drive
- Your insurance history and claims record
Nowhere on that list is the colour of your car.
Does Car Colour Impact Insurance Costs?
Short answer: No. Car colour does not directly affect your insurance premiums. Whether your car is red, black, white, or bright yellow, your insurer is focused on data, like accident statistics and repair costs associated with your specific vehicle model, not aesthetics.
When Car Colour Might Indirectly Influence Insurance
While colour isn’t a rating factor, it could influence other aspects of your driving experience:
- Visibility: Lighter-coloured cars (like white or silver) are more visible on the road, especially at night. This could reduce the risk of an accident, but insurers don’t currently factor this into your premium.
- Resale value or theft risk: Some colours may be more attractive to thieves or impact your car’s resale value, which could affect your overall ownership costs, but again—not your insurance rate.
What Actually Matters More Than Car Colour
If you’re shopping for a car and want to keep insurance costs down, focus on factors that do impact your premium:
- Choose a car with strong safety ratings
- Look for models with lower repair costs
- Avoid vehicles with high theft rates
- Maintain a clean driving record
These have a far greater influence on your insurance than the paint job.
How to Save on Car Insurance, No Matter What Colour Car You Drive
Whether you’re cruising in a sleek black sedan or a bold red compact SUV, here are a few ways to lower your insurance:
- Take a defensive driving course
- Add a dashcam to your car (some insurers offer discounts to dashcam owners)
- Compare quotes from multiple insurance providers
- Ask about loyalty or safe driver discounts
The Truth About Car Colour and Insurance
So, does the colour of your car affect your insurance? No, it doesn’t. It’s a persistent myth, but insurance companies care far more about your vehicle’s safety record, repair costs, and how you drive than the colour you chose at the dealership.
Have more questions about auto insurance? Reach out to the Autosmart team and we’ll help you navigate your options with clarity and confidence.
