With the auto industry rapidly changing, and many automakers finally going the hybrid route, lots of drivers are opting to keep their current vehicle for one more year to see what 2010 will have in store. If you're part of the growing trend of people holding out for a 2010 car purchase, know that you can make it a good year for your current ride - and your insurance rate - via the following maintenance and efficiency tips:Go independent: Have your car serviced by an independent mechanic shop, as opposed to your dealer's in-house services. Dealers are always more expensive, sometimes by upwards of 40 per cent on basic services. So shop around and see what mechanics offer the best deal. And don't be afraid to barter. Tip: If your dealer tells you outside servicing violates your car's warranty, know this may be untrue, so be sure to check your warranty.Time to replace a part? According to your manufacturer (and owner's manual), you can track the proper replacement dates for auto parts. From fan belts to brakes and tires, be sure to replace parts on time. This will leave you less susceptible to emergencies and help endorse the car's potential resale value down the road. Tip: Ask your mechanic if refurbished parts are available. They cost less and have to meet certain standards before being put in your car.Do it yourself: Need to replace a filter or windshield wipers? Do it yourself and save the service charge. Tip: Want to save money in the long run? Consider taking a basic car maintenance class at your local college. The do-it-yourself skills you'll learn will save you thousands of dollars over the years.Rejected warranty claim? Try again! Did your car's manufacturer reject your warranty claim? Ask if a technical service bulletin has been issued for the part. Tip: Persistence pays. Some manufacturers will repair a known defect outside a warranty period (called a "secret warranty" by industry insiders) if you are proactive and ask politely.Are you over-insured? Do you review your rate every year? You should start. Each year, your car depreciates in value, so you may be over-insuring. Always keep liability, but reconsider collision and comprehensive insurance if your vehicle is in its last year. Tip: Add your deductible to your annual amount for collision and comprehensive coverage. Next, compare the total with the wholesale value of your car. If the amount is more than half, then it's time for a quote comparison.
Make Your Car Last Through 2009
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Syef Hussain
Mark Beck was knowledgeable and…
Mark Beck was knowledgeable and friendly. I felt he was working with me on something I find stressful and that put me at ease.
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Rita was very helpful and put me in touch with an agent again very helpful and honest. I always appreciate the help I get when sign in and it happens so fast. No waiting!
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Allan Sulisz
Fast response after getting quote
Fast response after going through getting a quote. Limited choices to enter some information.
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Sean Figueredo
Very easy to go through the questions
Very easy to go through the questions
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Dina Robichaud
Easy to complete
Easy to complete, quick reply from company and put you into quick contact with best pricing company
1 week 3 days ago
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Tim Laurie
Satisfied with the service thanks will…
Satisfied with the service thanks will use it for other insurance
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Jaideep Seth
Andrew was great person to deal with.
Andrew was great person to deal with.
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Marion Crocker
Dimple was very helpful
Dimple was very helpful. She took the time to answer my questions and was very polite and friendly.
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Perry Janes
It was quick and lowest quote given…
It was quick and lowest quote given instantly
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Hemant
Efficient & convenient
Efficient & convenient
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Ciro Spiezia
Ciro Spiezia
The process of requesting a quote is easy and efficient
The process of requesting a quote is easy to follow and efficient. A representative contacted me right away and connected me directly with the right insurance broker who was able to provide the best insurance quote for my family's cars. Both the representative and the insurance broker were professional and efficient.
2 weeks 5 days ago
Aurelia M.
Aurelia M.
Real cost savings!
Very friendly and helpful, quickly connected me with a broker who offered a policy that saves me $600 a year!!
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PETER WALCOT
PETER WALCOT
Agent was pleasant to talk to.
Agent was pleasant to talk to.
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Rody Drover
easy and fast
easy and fast
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tim hannah
The operator was pleasant and quick
The operator was pleasant and quick. Almost no waiting
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Larry Fischer
Quick response
Quick response. Good service. Accurate. Pleasant agents.
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Peter
Communication was clear
Communication was clear, friendly, and prompt, with no sales pressure.
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RH