Car Care Guide 2018 by Ballantine Communications

GUIDE

Car Care

GUIDE

created by

chief executive officer Douglas Bennett

v.p. of finance and operations Carrie Cass

v.p. of newspaper advertising David Habrat

publisher Colleen Donley director of creative services Tad Smith special sections editor Hunter Harrell

Ballantine Communications Inc. uses reasonable effort to include accurate and up-to-date information for its special magazine publications. However, all information comes from a variety of sources and may change at any time for any reason. To verify specific information, refer to the organization or business noted. To view the online version of this guide, visit: www.durangoherald.com

Durangoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s #1 Certified Used Car Dealer. Locally owned and operated Tru Auto is a NIADA Certified Dealer, giving you the confidence you need and peace of mind you deserve on all used cars.

truautodeals.com

82 Bodo Dr Bodo Park, Durango (970) 247-3325 2 = 2 0 1 8 C A R C A R E G U ID E

TA B L E o f C O N T E N T S 3 Auto lenders 4 Right time to buy 6 How to sell your car 7 Pickup trucks remain popular 8 Fix leaky vehicles on budget 9 Repair flats 10 E x t e n d y o u r v e h i c l eâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s l i f e 12 Electric cars 14 Insurance premiums 15 Sponsored content: Subaru Ascent

TRU Auto Service is Now Bigger and Better! Your local independent Subaru specialist. Jayson Black Head Technician

Over 16 years of master Subaru experience!

278 Sawyer Dr, #7 Bodo Park, Durango 970-403-5511

NEW

LOCATIO

How to become more attractive to auto lenders

t is common for consumers to spend months researching and saving for new vehicles. But many auto buyers do not put the same amount of effort into finding auto loans. That’s unfortunate, as Consumer Reports notes that those who do not have financing arranged before visiting a dealership may not get the best loan terms.

Prior to buying a vehicle, drivers should give consideration to how they appear in the eyes of creditors. Few if any people pay for cars or trucks in full at the time of purchase. It’s key for buyers to attract lenders’ eyes. Improving credit score Lenders use consumers’ credit scores to determine how likely they will be to honor the terms of a potential loan. Consumers’ FICO® scores are the type of credit score most often used to make lending decisions. FICO scores range between 300 and 850. The higher the score, the lower the risk to lenders. However, lenders do not use the same formula to assess risk.

The first step potential borrowers should take is figuring out what their credit score is, and what information is on their credit report. Those who haven’t done so already can request a free copy of their credit reports from the three major credit monitoring bureaus. Once credit reports are obtained, consumers can work to correct any mistakes or inconsistencies. Some of these may be simple fixes, while others may take more effort. A 2012 study from the Federal Trade Commission found that one in five consumers had an error on at least one of their credit reports.

Shopping loans Those with strong credit have more wiggle room in terms of loan negotiation. A person with a high FICO score may be eligible for better terms, including a low interest rate. Consumers should consider the length of the loan and how much they can afford before signing any paperwork. Lengthy loans will cost buyers much more in the long run when factoring in interest payments. Still, Edmunds reports that, over the last 10 years, the length of the average car loan has risen above 68 months. Financial experts advise that buyers avoid relying on lengthier loans simply to buy more car than they can afford. Consider large lenders when shopping for auto loans. Such lenders may have better rates than going through dealerships directly. Other lenders include credit unions, local banks and finance companies. Borrowers with strong credit will be attractive to lenders and will have more loan options at their disposal. Consumers also can improve their credit scores by doing the following: • Make payments on time, as payment history can have the greatest effect on a bad credit score, according to Credit.com. • Reduce debt by paying off balances on credit cards or other loans. • Obtain a mix of different credit sources, such as those in the form of credit cards, furniture financing, home ownership and auto loans. This, too, can raise credit scores and make borrowers appear less risky. • Keep old credit accounts open, as they establish a strong credit history. Try not to open too many new accounts in a short period of time.

2 0 1 8 CAR CAR E GUIDE =

The best time to buy a new car and other cost-saving tips

hopping for a new car can be an exciting and sometimes stressful process. A vehicle is one of the largest purchases a person will make in his or her lifetime, so choosing an automobile requires careful research and some comparison shopping.

4 = 2 0 1 8 C A R C A R E G U ID E

According to IHS Automotive, there are more than 250 million registered passenger vehicles in the United States. In Canada, 33,168,805 vehicle registrations were reported by Statistics Canada in 2015. With so many cars and trucks on the road, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s important for drivers to get a vehicle that meets their needs and fits their budgets. The following are some pointers for prospective buyers looking to save some money on their next vehicles.

Choose the right day of the week

According to a study by TrueCar.com, an automotive pricing and information website, Sunday is the best day of the week to purchase a vehicle. Buyers can expect to pay as much as $2,000 more for the same vehicle on Friday than those who shop on a Sunday. Monday is also a good day, as there is less foot traffic and it may be possible to wrangle a better deal. Waiting until the end of the day can be advantageous, too. Salespeople may be anxious to close out sales so they can get home at quitting time. Wait for model changeover Pay attention to news regarding which vehicle models will be retired or redesigned, as this may indicate which vehicles might be offered at the best deals. The model year should also be considered when looking for a new car. Many

buyers are naturally attracted to the newest model year, feeling that if theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re going to pay a lot for a car or truck, they want to do so for the newest available model. Buyers who donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t need the newest model available may find a better deal than those who do.

week of the month may be a good time to buy. Sales managers and dealerships in general have a monthly quota to meet and are compensated accordingly. Negotiating at this time means shoppers can get a good deal, while salespeople can move vehicles.

Choose a different body type The National Automobile Dealers Association advises that pickup trucks and SUVs continue to command high prices. Shoppers who look at sedans, compact cars and even luxury vehicles may be able to get a better price than those looking for trucks or SUVs. Buyers should assess their needs and see if a different body style or category of car fits their needs and their budgets.

Get financing ahead of time Knowing your budget ahead of time and prearranging financing can put shoppers in a better position when it comes time to negotiate. Strong credit scores and decent down payments make certain buyers better prospects for dealerships. It also may mean their purchasing power can translate into better deals. Shopping for a new car can be challenging and exciting all at once. Purchasing at the right time can save drivers money and get them in the car of their dreams.

Shop the end of the month No matter the month, waiting until the last

2 0 1 8 CAR CAR E GUIDE =

5 tips to successfully sell your car

elling a used vehicle does not have to be a complicated process. But too often private sellers struggle to sell their vehicles because they are unsure of how to do so. A little information on the selling process can make it easy to unload vehicles quickly and at the prices sellers desire.

1. Know the market The experts at Edmunds say sellers should research the market before putting their vehicles up for sale. Compare the prices of similar makes and models, and track whether those vehicles are moving quickly. Cars that are hot commodities will sell relatively quickly. Even though these may not be the flashy vehicles, family sedans, trucks and vans tend to turn over fast. Convertibles, classic cars or those with special features may take longer to move and will have to be priced accordingly. 2. Determine the vehicle’s worth Just because sellers want to get predetermined amounts for their vehicles doesn’t mean those

6 = 2 0 1 8 C A R C A R E G U ID E

figures are the going rates for their cars and trucks. Using resources like Kelley Blue Book, NADA Guides and Autotrader.com can help sellers determine the value of their rides according to factors such as mileage, age, model, and condition of the vehicle. 3. Gather receipts and other paperwork Sellers should dig through their files to unearth maintenance receipts and other documentation on their vehicles. For those who can’t find receipts, ask for such receipts where the vehicle was serviced. According to Kelley Blue Book, proof of regular oil changes and other services can be a good selling

point because it shows that the seller maintained the vehicle to the best of his or her ability. It could be worth the investment to pull the CarFax® report on the vehicle as well to see how it measures up. Some buyers will request that information as well. The Department of Motor Vehicles also suggests gathering a release of liability form to keep sellers from being liable for any damages incurred after the vehicle is sold; warranty documents if the car is still under a manufacturer’s warranty; and the vehicle’s title. 4. Prepare the vehicle Prior to selling, give the car a facelift and a good wash. Vacuum floors, floormats, seats, and the trunk. Clean the interior, and wash windows inside and out. A fresh wash and wax can improve the appearance of the vehicle and help it to photograph well for sale pictures. 5. Advertise the sale Advertise the vehicle in a variety of different formats. Opt for the classifieds section of a local newspaper, post it online and share through social media. A sign on the vehicle is also smart. This will improve the chances of it being seen.

Pickup trucks remain popular among car buyers

ickup trucks have long been among the most popular vehicles sold, and Statistica states the number of new pickup trucks sold in the United States continues to grow. Between 2015 and 2016, 2.7 million pickups were sold, and some 2.24 million of those were fullsized pickups. According to the data and statistics site GoodCarBadCar, Canadian sales of pickup trucks jumped by 8 percent in 2016, equating to roughly 27,000 additional units sold. A recent study from the Automotive News Data Center found the big three pickup manufacturers, which include Ford, GM and Dodge, sell an average of 6,500 trucks every day in North America. The automotive news resource The Drive points out the Ford F-150 has been the bestselling truck for 40 consecutive years. While the popularity of pickup trucks may be evident to today’s motorists, just who is behind the wheels of those trucks may come as a surprise. According to a recent study from MaritzCX, covering the 2016 model year, more people from affluent families are opting for pickup trucks than economy cars. The Ford F-150 was the most popular vehicle among households earning more than $200,000 a year. Jeep Grand Cherokee, Honda Pilot and Jeep Wrangler were also tops among high-income Americans. Other factors also may be contributing to the popularity of pickup trucks. A survey from Insure.com asked 2,000 licensed drivers ages 18 and up to rank the kinds of vehicles driven by the most attractive members of the opposite sex. The survey found that women prefer drivers of black pickup trucks. Motorists who have never before driven pickup trucks but are mulling whether or not to join the truck-loving masses can consider a host of factors as they begin looking for trucks. •S ize: Pickups are larger than many other vehicles and tend to be heavier. As a result, when driving a pickup, leave more space for braking and do not tailgate. •B lind spots: Because pickup trucks are longer than cars, they may have larger blind spots. Drivers should adjust the mirrors to diminish as much of their blind spots as possible. Also, give ample notice when changing lanes or making turns. •R everse: Upon purchasing a pickup, first-time truck owners may benefit from practicing driving in reverse so they can grow accustomed to doing so in a truck. •H auling gear: Be sure to properly restrain items that are hauled in the pickup truck bed, or invest in a bed cover so nothing is lost and safety is not compromised. • Inclement weather driving: Pickup trucks have very little weight in the back when their beds are empty. This can cause trucks to fishtail on wet or snowy roads. Alleviate this by placing some sandbags in truck beds before driving in poor weather. Pickup trucks are among the most popular vehicles on the road, but drivers may need to alter their driving habits when operating them.

Brennan Oil and Stations have been serving Durango since 1923. As a 5th generation family business, we are proud to be locally owned, and proud to support our community. Our 5 locations in Durango feature quality Exxon fuels and excellent customer service. Brennan Stations are dedicated to making your time on the road a more enjoyable experience. With one easy stop, you can fill up the car and fill up on snacks.

CONVENIENCE STORES AND FUEL STATIONS: MINI MART 2501 Main Ave COLLEGE EXXON 600 E. 4th Ave FOUR STAR EXXON 1220 Carbon Junction Rd Ethanol Free Fuel Available at these locations: PARKWAY EXXON 17th & Main TEMPO MINI MART Highway 160 West

www.brennanstations.com 2 0 1 8 CAR CAR E GUIDE =

How to fix leaky vehicles without breaking the bank

rivers expect to experience a few bumps in the road as their vehicles age. While certain issues, such as worn shocks or engine troubles, are best left to the professionals, drivers can address many other issues that commonly affect aging vehicles on their own.

Fluid leaks are one of the more routine problems that plague older vehicles. While leaks are not necessarily a sign of doom and gloom, they tend to distress vehicle owners and can affect drivability. In addition, automotive fluids that seep out of vehicles can prove harmful to the environment. Leaks may not be a concern for drivers of new vehicles, but studies show that drivers are keeping their vehicles for longer than ever before, suggesting that leaks are becoming a greater issue for more and more motorists. A 2016 study from the Institute for Highway Safety found that the average age of vehicles on the road in the United States is nearly 12 years. By 2021, the IHS expects a 30 percent increase in vehicles that are 16 years or older. So how can drivers address leaky vehicles before they contribute to potentially larger, more costly problems? Fortunately, leaks can be a relatively simple fix, which should assuage any fears drivers may have as the numbers on their odometers continue to rise.

8 = 2 0 1 8 C A R C A R E G U ID E

Identifying leaks Identifying leaks is the first step toward fixing them. According to CRC Industries, a global leader in specialty maintenance and repair chemicals, including K&W brand Stop Leak products, the simplest way to identify which fluid is leaking is to determine its color. CRC notes that red fluid suggests a leak in the power steering system or transmission, while black fluid typically indicates old oil or transmission fluid that has gone bad. If the leaky fluid is green or yellow, then it’s likely engine coolant. Fixing leaks Once drivers have identified which fluid is leaking, they can then take steps to fix the leak. Unlike other problems that plague older vehicles, leaks can typically be fixed quickly and affordably. “Stop leak products can really save the day, especially if the leak means that you have to stop driving the vehicle,” says CRC Technical

Service Manager Scott Brownstein. “Our K&W Stop Leak solutions are designed to provide faster, less expensive alternatives for drivers who may be facing costly mechanical repairs.” Stop leak products can be especially valuable to drivers of older vehicles, who may not want to pay for repairs that could very well exceed the value of their cars and trucks. In addition, replacement parts for older vehicles are oftentimes not readily available. In such instances, stop leak products can help drivers keep their cars on the road until replacement parts are found. Stop leak products also can be valuable in the face of emergencies, giving drivers time to get their vehicles to their mechanics. K&W Stop Leak products are available to address any type of leak drivers may encounter, and drivers need not be car savvy or mechanically inclined to use the products without professional assistance. For example, K&W’s Super TurboTM Engine Oil Stop Leak and Steer-XTM Power Steering Stop Leak employ a “Pour & Go” formula that can get drivers and their vehicles back on the road in 10 minutes. As more and more drivers look to extend the life of their vehicles, leaks figure to factor more heavily in the lives of motorists. Addressing such leaks can be easy, quick and affordable. Learn more about fixing leaks at www.stopautoleaks.com/metro.

How to avoid and repair flat tires

othing can delay road trips more than flat tires. Unfortunately, because tires are the only part of the vehicle constantly in contact with the road, wear and tear is to be expected. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says that flat tires and blowouts are a leading cause of highway traffic accidents. Even though flats cannot be prevented, there are ways to make tires less vulnerable and make vehicles safer along the way. Flat tire avoidance Routine inspection and tire maintenance is essential to their performance. In addition, paying attention to road hazards and avoiding them when possible can prolong the life of tires. Tire pressure: Tires should be maintained at the correct air pressure indicated on the sidewall or as advised by the manufacturer. Tires with too much air can be damaged by bumpy roads and potholes. Tires that are not inflated enough may increase friction on the roadway, resulting in a blowout. Check tire pressure routinely, and do so when the tires have rested for three hours. Many vehicles now monitor tire pressure automatically and alert drivers through a signal on the dashboard. Tire wear: The advisors at Select Auto Imports say that inspecting tires for uneven wear should be a routine part of maintenance. If tires show uneven wear, they may be more susceptible to flats or blowouts. Tire rotations can help alleviate uneven wear. The NHTSA recommends tires be rotated every 5,000 miles. Tire treads: The Allstate Insurance company says to look for worn tire treads. Check for wear bar indicator marks located between the tread pattern of the tires. If the wear bar is level with the treads, it’s time for new tires. Otherwise, place a quarter between the grooves of the tire. If the tread doesn’t extend beyond the top of Washington’s head, it’s a good idea to replace the tires. Construction sites: Drivers should try to avoid areas under construction. Rocks, nails, metal shards, glass, and divots in the roads can cause punctures and eventually flats.

Flat tire repair When flats occur, having the right tools and understanding the procedure for fixing the flat is key. Drivers will need an inflated spare tire, a jack, a lug wrench, bracing material (to keep the vehicle from rolling, such as a brick or piece of wood), and the vehicle’s owner’s manual. Goodyear says it is essential to fix the flat in a safe area away from traffic and on a flat surface. • Use the owner’s manual to find the correct position to place the jack to lift the car. • Remove hubcaps or center covers to access the lug nuts. With the lug wrench, loosen lug nuts in a counterclockwise direction. • Take off the tire and put on the spare. Replace and tighten the lug nuts. Replace hubcaps or covers. • Slowly lower the vehicle and drive cautiously to ensure the spare is in working order. • Purchase a new tire or have a hole plugged or repaired at a tire center. 2 0 1 8 CAR CAR E GUIDE =

4 simple ways to extend the life of your vehicle

utomobiles are significant investments. According to Kelley Blue Book, the average transaction price for light vehicles was $34,968 in January 2017, marking a 3 percent increase from just a year earlier. The decision to spend tens of thousands of dollars on a new vehicle is not one consumers should take lightly. Once drivers purchase their new vehicles, they can protect their investments and get greater returns on those investments by prioritizing maintenance and taking simple yet effective steps to extend the lives of their cars and trucks. 1. Drive defensively. Aggressive driving is dangerous and can have adverse effects on a vehicle. When driving, always obey posted speed limits and avoid accelerating and decelerating quickly. Such a style of driving can strain vehicle engines and drive trains while negatively affecting fuel efficiency and wearing down brakes, states the National Institute of Automotive Service Excellence.

10 = 20 1 8 C A R C A RE G U ID E

2. Maintain a clean vehicle. Car washes do more than just clean a vehicle. Routine washing and waxing can remove dirt that, if left on a vehicle, can gradually scratch paint and contribute to chips and rust. Over time, rust can affect vehicle performance and may even compromise the safety of drivers and their passengers if bad enough frame rust affects structural integrity. Routine washing also can remove road salt from vehicles. Salt can build up during winter when roads are routinely treated during and after snowstorms. Road salt can be extremely corrosive and, if left unremoved from a vehicle, can contribute to rust that ultimately can cause extensive damage to a vehicle.

3. Routinely check tire pressure. Many of today’s new vehicles alert drivers when tire pressure is low. Drivers should not ignore such warnings, as low tire pressure can affect engine performance by forcing it to work harder than should be necessary. Engines that are forced to work harder than they need to likely won’t last as long as those that run efficiently. Low tire pressure also negatively affects fuel efficiency, potentially costing drivers substantial amounts of money over time. Drivers of older vehicles without tire pressure alerts should routinely check tire pressure and keep tires adequately inflated. Vehicles that are slow to accelerate from resting positions may not have enough air in their tires. 4. Adhere to maintenance guidelines. Drivers may have heard that today’s vehicles were built to go longer periods of time between oil changes and tuneups than the vehicles of yesteryear. But drivers should still adhere to manufacturer-recommended maintenance guidelines. Upon buying new vehicles, drivers should read their owners’ manuals to determine recommended maintenance intervals, and stick to those intervals for as long as they have their vehicles. Cognizant of the sizable investments they’re making when buying new vehicles, many drivers want to get as many miles out of their vehicles as possible. Simple maintenance and safe driving habits can go a long way toward keeping vehicles on the road for years to come.

SOUTHWEST COLORADO’S PREMIER IMPORT AUTOMOTIVE SERVICE SHOP Durango Small Car provides the highest level of service and complete lineup of Import vehicle parts and products. Our ASE Master technicians are trained by the manufacturer. At Durango Small Car we stand behind our service and products by offering a 24 month, 24,000 mile warranty on all OEM replacement parts and service.

durangosmallcar.com

DURANGO SMALL CAR, INC. · 138 BODO DRIVE , DURANGO · 970.259.3460

199970

2 0 1 8 CAR CAR E GUIDE =

A beginnerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s guide to electric cars

lectric or hybrid vehicles can be smart additions to eco-friendly lifestyles. Although such cars were once science fiction, EVs are now increasingly more common and traversing roadways around the world. Thanks to several mainstream brands offering EVs and hybrid models, consumers are more informed than ever before about the benefits of a plugged-in ride. Still, even with the wealth of information available, some people still may be unsure about what owning an EV entails and how to make informed decisions when shopping for such vehicles. Going electric means thinking beyond the gas station. Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s how to navigate the ins and outs of EVs.

12 = 20 1 8 C A R C A RE G U ID E

Type of vehicle: First consider that not all EVs are the same. Hybrid vehicles use a mix of gasoline and electricity and tend to have long fuel ranges. All-electric cars will only use electricity that is gained through charging the vehicle for a certain period of time. Affordability: Consumers can expect to pay more for electric and hybrid vehicles than gas-powered vehicles. But as demand increases, costs may drop. According to a report from USA Today, estimates point to EVs as being as affordable as gas vehicles by 2021. Another consideration is there may be tax incentives for purchasing an EV. Speak with a tax professional to see if this is applicable.

SPRING SERVICE SPECIALS! Exclusive Gift Card

✃

Nissan of Durango

A report from University of Michigan researchers using data from the Department of Energy suggests that there are now roughly 16,000 public electric vehicle charging stations with about 43,000 connectors in the United States.

Environmental savings: Electric cars produce no emissions from the tailpipe and reduce dependency on oil-based fuels. Furthermore, EVs will not need oil changes or emissions checks that traditional cars require, further saving resources. The resource Plug in Cars says that EVs can also save on fuel costs, ranging at two cents per mile traveled, compared to 12 cents for gas-fueled vehicles. Fill-ups: EVs can be charged at home using personal charging kits or at charging stations in the neighborhood. Charge times will depend on the size of the vehicle and its battery. According to TheChargingPoint.com, an EV resource, the typical time for an all-electric car using a standard UK home wall socket is between six and eight hours. Some new EVs can be charged in 30 minutes to an hour at rapid charging points. Solar + EVs = savings: Consumer Reports advises that, when EVs are combined with home solar systems, “fuel” costs can be completely eliminated. That financial gain can be a big motivator for some consumers. Short trips: Individuals who travel 80 miles or less per day may find pure electric vehicles advantageous. Those who have to go further should consider hybrids that offer greater range. However, Tesla, Chevy and Nissan EVs have recently moved beyond the 200-mile range before requiring a charge. Charging stations: A report from University of Michigan researchers using data from the Department of Energy suggests that there are now roughly 16,000 public electric vehicle charging stations with about 43,000 connectors in the United States. ChargeHub, with information from the Canadian Automobile Association, states there are a total of 6,473 EV chargers across Canada. Electric and hybrid vehicles could be the wave of the future as more people embrace the convenience these cars offer.

Receive a Lube, Oil, & Filter Change for just 12.95 with this coupon!

1295

LUBE, OIL & FILTER

Syntheitc and diesel oils not included. Coupon must be presented at time of write-up. Cannot be combined with other coupons or in-store specials. See dealer for details. Expires 8/31/2018.

Exclusive Gift Card

✃

Nissan of Durango •Tire Rotation • Check Tire Wear • Adjust Air Pressure

TIRE ROTATION

Please present coupon at time of purchase. Cannot be combined with other coupons, discounts, or specials. Tax, shop supplies and hazardous waste disposal not inclucled. See Service Consultant for details. Expires 8/31/2018.

995

✃

Exclusive Gift Card Nissan of Durango Buy 3 Tires, get the 4th FREE!

TIRE SPECIAL

Coupon must be presented at time of write-up. Cannot be combined with other coupons or in-store specials. See dealer for details. Expires 8/31/2018.

BUY 3 TIRES GET 1 FREE

✃

Exclusive Gift Card Nissan of Durango FREE 27 point inspection.

INSPECTION

No purchase necessary. Coupon must be presented at time of write-up. Cannot be combined with other coupons or in-store specials. See dealer for details. Expires 8/31/2018.

FREE

MONDAY-FRIDAY 7:30 AM - 5:30 PM OPEN SATURDAYS FOR FULL SERVICE 9AM-5PM

(970) 259-3940

20704 HIGHWAY 160 WEST DURANGO 2 0 1 8 CAR CAR E GUIDE =

Factors that impact auto insurance premiums

uto insurance rates vary from person to person, even though it may seem like the offerings are the same. But no two drivers are the same, and certain factors may be affecting drivers’ auto insurance premiums without the motorists even realizing it.

Automotive insurance provider State Farm says most insurance companies consider several factors when calculating the cost of car insurance. Recognizing which situations can increase or lower costs can help drivers get the best rates and coverage needed. Although it can be tempting to reduce the price of insurance by choosing lower amounts of coverage, there are other ways to make insurance more affordable. Move. Insurers typically look at where a person lives when calculating rates. Those people who live in highly populated, urban areas likely will have higher premiums than others who live in more rural towns. That’s because greater population density often translates into more people on the road — and a greater chance for insurance claims due to fender benders or theft. By moving, a person may be able to cut rates.

14 = 20 1 8 C A R C A RE G U ID E

Gender and age are factors. One can’t step into a time machine, but it’s helpful to know that growing a little older can lower insurance premiums. The financial advice source Money Crashers say that young men usually incur higher rates than young women because statistically men get into more accidents. However, as a person moves into his or her senior years, the roles reverse. Older women may see higher rates than men the same age. Commuters may pay more. Individuals who use a car for business or frequent commuting may pay more than people who drive less because statistically there is a greater risk for an accident, says State Farm. Reducing commute times can lower premiums. Keep make and model in mind. The type of vehicle driven can affect insurance premiums. Certain insurance carriers will increase premiums on vehicles that are more susceptible to damage. Sports cars or

those that do not score as highly on vehicle safety ratings calculated by industry experts may result in high premiums. Vehicles that are desirable to car thieves also may cost more to insure. Researching vehicles prior to purchase and checking the rates for those cars or trucks with insurance companies can help keep costs low. Tie the knot. Insure.com says married couples have been found to be less of a risk to insurance providers statistically than those who are single. A study by the National Institutes of Health found that single drivers were twice as likely to be in an auto accident as married drivers. Combining policies also can help married people save. Follow the rules of the road. Drivers who have moving violations, drink and drive or engage in otherwise risky behavior behind the wheel may see their rates soar. Insurance companies weigh factors such as driving record, age, locality, and more when assessing premium costs. Drivers have some room to get lower rates by knowing the factors that determine their premiums.