Get an Anti-Theft Discount

An anti-theft discount is an auto insurance discount you may receive if you have anti-theft technology already installed in your car or if you install it after buying your car insurance. These devices help protect your vehicle from being stolen.

Besides the anti-theft discount, auto insurers are happy to help you save money on your car insurance policy through a number of other car insurance discounts. Be sure to ask your agent how you can save money on your coverage. There might be some discounts you hadn’t thought of that could give you a nice break on your premium.

You will most likely save anywhere from 5% to 30% off your auto policy. Just as discounts may vary depending on which technology you use, the discount may vary from one insurance company to another.

But using anti-theft devices can save you money in another way: Some insurance policies do not cover your personal possessions inside your car. This technology can provide you with savings by way of keeping your vehicle and your belongings inside it protected.

If you have any anti-theft devices installed in your car or if there are any that you use, you may be eligible for this discount. These devices include:

• Audible alarm system: Makes a loud noise when someone tries to steal your car, deterring thieves.
• Wheel clamp: Locks your vehicle’s tires so your car cannot be driven.
• Brake lock: Attaches to the steering wheel or brake pedal, immobilizing the brakes.
• Remote lock: Allows you to lock your car using your smartphone, preventing thieves from unlocking your vehicle.
• Smart key: Uses a radio pulse generator to lock your car through communication with antennas inside the vehicle.
• GPS tracker: Sends text messages or emails providing your car’s location whenever it is in motion. Advanced units can immobilize your vehicle.
• Hidden kill switch: Cuts electricity to the ignition, preventing thieves from stealing your car.
• Vehicle recovery system: Uses radio frequencies to help police locate your car if it has been stolen.
• Steering wheel lock: Attaches to your steering wheel that locks it in place.

Certain anti-theft subscription services prevent your engine from starting after your car has been stolen and may also make you eligible.

Ask your agent for details about these and other security devices that may earn you a discount.

Who Does Not Qualify for an Anti-Theft Discount?

If your car does not have any of the above-mentioned anti-theft devices or any other anti-theft technology, you will most likely be ineligible for this discount. However, some devices are easy to install. Ask your agent if buying such a device, such as a steering wheel lock, will make you eligible.

Some insurance companies only provide this discount for certain anti-theft devices. And your agent may require proof that you use such a device.

When you’re getting a car coverage quote, be sure to ask your agent about what other discounts the insurance carrier offers. You may be surprised to find you have many ways to save.

If you have a clean driving record with no accidents, tickets, or insurance claims for a number of years — usually three to five — you can potentially save between 10% and 30% off your bill.

Another easy way to save around 5% is by setting up automatic payments from your checking account or by paying your policy in full up front for around 9% savings.

Bundling your policies means purchasing your auto coverage and another type of coverage, such as renters or homeowners insurance, with one carrier, which could save you between 10% and 20% — or bundling by insuring multiple vehicles may save you between 10% and 25%.

If you only drive occasionally or if your mileage has decreased due to a lifestyle change, such as switching to a remote job, you may be eligible for the low-mileage discount. These discounts vary according to the number of miles you drive, but you could potentially save up to 30% off your bill.

If you pass a defensive driving course, you may save up to 5%. Before taking such a course, be sure it’s approved by your insurance company to earn this discount.

These are just a few of the available discounts you may be able to apply to your policy to save you a nice little bundle. Ask your agent about what other discounts are available.