Want to lower your auto insurance premiums in Illinois? Start by comparing quotes annually, raising your deductibles, bundling policies, maximizing discounts, and keeping a clean driving record. You can also explore usage-based insurance or drop unnecessary coverage on older cars. Even one change—like switching insurers or increasing your deductible—can cut your costs by 20–40%.
To see how much you could save today, call Insure on the Spot at 773-202-5060 or get a free quote with no credit check.
Smart Strategies to Lower Your Auto Insurance Bill
Car insurance premiums can be expensive, but they’re not set in stone. Here are the best ways to reduce your rates:
- Compare quotes regularly: Even if you’re happy with your current insurer, shop around at least once a year. Rates vary widely between companies.
- Maximize discounts: Safe driver, good student, multi-policy, autopay—stacking discounts can save you big.
- Bundle your policies: Insure your auto and home/renters insurance with the same company to unlock bundle savings.
- Adjust your coverage: Consider higher deductibles, drop collision or comp on older cars, and review add-ons.
- Use telematics or pay-per-mile programs: If you drive safely or infrequently, usage-based insurance may reduce your rate.
- Drive carefully and maintain good credit: These two factors have a huge impact on your long-term costs.
- Pick a cheaper-to-insure vehicle: Small SUVs and safe, moderately priced sedans typically cost less to insure.
How Insurance Discounts Work (And How to Get More)
Every insurer offers discounts—but many drivers miss out simply by not asking. Here are some common ones to look for:
| Discount Type | Who Qualifies |
| Safe Driver | No violations or accidents in the last 3–5 years |
| Good Student | Students with B average or better |
| Multi-Car | Insuring 2+ vehicles with the same company |
| Bundle (Auto + Home) | Having multiple policy types with one provider |
| Pay-in-Full | Paying your 6- or 12-month premium upfront |
| Paperless / Autopay | Going digital and automatic with billing |
| Safety Features | Anti-lock brakes, airbags, anti-theft devices |
| Defensive Driving Course | Completing an approved class (esp. for older drivers) |
Pro Tip:
Discounts don’t stack the same across companies. Compare base rates first, then look at who offers the best savings when discounts are applied.
Does Bundling Save You Money?
Yes—often 10% to 25%. When you bundle your car insurance with another policy (like renters or homeowners), most companies offer a multi-policy discount. You’ll also enjoy the convenience of managing fewer bills.
When it works best:
- You’re happy with one insurer’s service across the board
- You qualify for loyalty or renewal perks
- You want to simplify your coverage in one place
When to double-check:
Some insurers may offer better standalone rates, especially on home policies. Compare both bundled and separate quotes.
Can Adjusting Coverage Lower My Premium?
Absolutely. Here’s how to lower your rate without sacrificing protection:
1. Raise Your Deductible
Going from a $500 to a $1,000 deductible can lower your comp/collision premiums by 30–40%. Just make sure you can afford the higher out-of-pocket cost in an emergency.
2. Drop Comp & Collision on Older Cars
If your vehicle is worth less than your deductible plus one year’s premiums, full coverage may not make sense. Stick with liability to save.
3. Remove Extras You Don’t Need
Roadside assistance, rental car reimbursement, or glass coverage might be redundant if you already have those through AAA or a credit card.
4. Adjust Liability Limits Carefully
Don’t skimp on liability—this protects your assets. Stick to at least 100/300/100 if you can afford it, and trim elsewhere instead.
Is Usage-Based Insurance Worth It?
It can be—especially for safe or low-mileage drivers.
Types of telematics programs:
- Behavior-based: Tracks braking, acceleration, time of day. (Progressive Snapshot, Allstate Drivewise)
- Pay-per-mile: Charges you based on how much you drive. (Metromile, Allstate Milewise)
You’ll benefit if:
- You drive less than 7,500 miles/year
- You avoid hard stops and late-night trips
- You’re OK with having your driving monitored
Be cautious if:
- You have a long commute
- You frequently drive at night
- You value privacy over potential discounts
Alternative: Ask about a low-mileage discount without using telematics.
How Often Should You Compare Car Insurance?
Once a year is ideal—or anytime your circumstances change:
- You moved
- You got married or divorced
- You bought a new car
- You had an accident or ticket fall off your record
- You saw a rate increase
Comparing quotes takes just minutes and could save you hundreds. Insure on the Spot makes it easy with no credit check and instant pricing.
Do Driving Habits and Credit Affect Rates?
Yes—big time.
Driving Record
- Clean record = 10–30% discounts
- One speeding ticket = up to 15% higher premium
- DUI = Rates could double
- At-fault accidents = Surcharges for 3–5 years
Credit Score
Illinois allows credit-based insurance pricing. A poor score can raise rates by 20–100%. Improve your score to unlock lower rates over time.
Note: Illinois drivers can get quotes without a credit check through providers like Insure on the Spot.
What If I Have a Bad Driving Record?
You can still get insured—and save:
- Shop high-risk providers: Like Insure on the Spot, who specialize in SR-22 and high-risk drivers
- Take defensive driving courses: May remove violations or earn discounts
- Don’t let coverage lapse: Even if rates are high, staying insured helps over time
- Downsize coverage temporarily: Consider liability-only while you improve your record
- Compare quotes frequently: One insurer may price your situation better than others
With patience and safe driving, you can transition back to standard rates over time.
What Cars Are Cheapest to Insure?
Vehicle choice matters:
- Low-risk vehicles: Small SUVs (Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V), base sedans (Camry, Accord)
- Avoid: Sports cars, luxury models, high-horsepower vehicles, cars with poor theft ratings
- Best types: Family-friendly, moderate value, good crash-test ratings
- Tip: Get quotes on multiple models before buying your next car
Older vehicles can also be cheaper to insure—especially if you can drop comp/collision.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I save the most money on car insurance?
Shop for the lowest base rate, raise your deductible, drop unneeded coverage, and claim all available discounts. Don’t forget: comparing quotes annually is often the biggest money-saver.
Q: What’s a good monthly premium?
A: In Illinois, full coverage averages around $190/month. A good rate for safe drivers is typically $100–$150/month. Liability-only can be under $50. Compare quotes to know what’s fair for your profile.
Q: Should I drop full coverage on my older car?
A: If your car is worth less than your deductible + one year of comp/collision premiums, it might be time to go liability-only. Just be sure you could replace the vehicle out-of-pocket if it’s totaled.
Q: Can I get car insurance with bad credit?
A: Yes. Some insurers offer no-credit-check quotes (like Insure on the Spot). Otherwise, improving your credit over time will help lower your premium.
Q: Can I get car insurance with a bad driving record or SR-22?
A: Absolutely. High-risk specialists like Insure on the Spot offer SR-22 filing and coverage for drivers with DUIs, accidents, or tickets. Compare options, stay insured, and your rates will improve with time.
Ready to Save on Car Insurance?
Call Insure on the Spot at 773-202-5060 or get a free quote online with no credit check. Whether you’re a safe driver or need SR-22 insurance, we’ll help you find the best rate in Illinois. We’ve insured over a million Chicagoland drivers—now let us help you.