When should I shop around for new car insurance rates?
Shop for new car insurance rates 30 to 60 days before your policy renews. This gives you time to compare quotes and switch if you find a better deal. Many drivers save money this way.
Key Times to Compare Rates
Here's what you need to know:
- Before renewal: Start 30-60 days early. You lock in current rates before companies raise them.
- December: Insurers often adjust rates in January. Get quotes now to beat hikes.
- Your birthday: Rates drop at age 25 or as you age. Shop a few weeks before or after.
- Life changes: Marriage, buying a home, moving, retiring, or adding a teen driver changes your rate. Compare right away.
- New car purchase: Shop as soon as you buy to get coverage that fits.
| Trigger | Why Shop Now | Potential Savings |
|---|---|---|
| Policy renewal (30-60 days before) | Avoid rate increases | Up to 20% lower |
| December | Before January hikes | 10-15% average |
| Birthday (age 25+) | Age discounts kick in | 15-25% drop |
| Marriage or bundling home insurance | Multi-policy discounts | 10-20% off |
| Moving to a new area | Location-based rates | Varies by zip, often lower |
Why Rates Change and How to Save
Car insurance rates rose 12% in 2025 due to inflation. Companies review claims yearly and file increases around March. September to March often sees the best deals before changes hit.
In zip code 94188, rates depend on your driving history, miles driven, and coverage needs. Shop yearly at minimum. Use online tools to compare in 15-30 minutes.
Action steps:
- Check your renewal date today.
- Get 3-5 quotes with the same coverage limits.
- Look for discounts: safe driver, low mileage, or bundling.
- Switch anytime. No need to wait for renewal.
Sidekick tracks your policy renewal and alerts you when to shop. It pulls real owner data to show average rates in your area. As of February 2026, Sidekick users save 18% on average by timing their switches right.
Shop now if your rate jumped. Many find better deals fast. Competition drives lower prices across insurers.