DIY Car Upgrades: Save on Insurance with Easy Fixes

Looking for DIY car upgrades to save on your car insurance? Here’s the inside scoop: a few smart, affordable DIY upgrades can actually lower your rates. Picture this: a weekend spent adding easy, practical upgrades to your car that not only make it look sleeker but could also put cash back in your pocket.

So, grab your toolkit, set aside a Saturday, and let’s get to work on these small car upgrades that pack a big punch for both style and insurance savings!

8 Easy DIY Car Upgrade Tips that Can Help Lower Your Insurance Rates

1. Install Anti-Theft Devices – Security Equals Savings

Car theft is a real problem, and insurance companies know it. That’s why they’re willing to cut you some slack if you make it harder for thieves to target your ride. Adding an anti-theft device, like a steering wheel lock, car alarm, or even a simple kill switch, can reduce the risk of theft. Many insurers will reward this with a discount because, in their eyes, a safer car is a cheaper car to insure.

Tip for your DIY Car Upgrades:

Look for a “passive” device that doesn’t require activation each time, such as an ignition cutoff. You’ll get the discount without the hassle!

2. DIY Car Upgrades: Use a Dash Cam. Proof Can Pay Off!

Ever wish you had a way to prove you weren’t at fault in a fender-bender? A dash cam is your answer. More insurance companies are offering discounts for dash cams, as they provide clear evidence if you’re involved in an accident. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to install and come in a range of prices for any budget.

Did You Know?

Some insurance providers offer up to 10% off if you install a dash cam and share footage in case of an accident.

3. Add Window Tint for Privacy and Safety

Window tinting doesn’t just give your car a sleek look, it also protects your valuables from prying eyes and can deter theft. The added privacy can sometimes qualify you for a slight insurance discount, especially if your car is less likely to be broken into.

Tip for your DIY Car Upgrades:

Many auto stores sell window tinting kits with easy-to-follow instructions. Just be sure to check local laws on acceptable tint levels.

4. Replace Your Tires with High-Performance Options

Better tires don’t just look great, they also keep you safer. High-performance or all-season tires can improve how you handle your vehicle, especially in tricky weather conditions. Better handling means fewer accidents, which insurance companies love. While they might not directly lower your insurance rates, safer driving could mean fewer claims, which keeps costs down in the long run.

Tip for your DIY Car Upgrades:

Investing in good tires and maintaining them (with regular rotation and proper inflation) can also improve your fuel efficiency—double savings!

5. Add Rear-View and Blind Spot Mirrors for Extra Safety

Let’s be real, who hasn’t felt a pang of anxiety changing lanes? Rear-view and blind-spot mirrors are low-cost but highly rewarding additions that make driving safer by giving you a clearer view of your surroundings. Enhanced visibility can reduce accidents and may even make you eligible for a small safety-based insurance discount.

Tip for your DIY Car Upgrades:

You can find clip-on mirrors or stick-on blind spot mirrors for less than $10, and they take seconds to install.

6. Upgrade Your Headlights – See and Be Seen

Good visibility is key to safe driving, especially at night. Replacing old, foggy headlights with new LED or HID options can improve your nighttime driving and make your car look slick. Plus, better lighting reduces accident risk, and some insurers will recognize that with reduced premiums or eligibility for safety discounts.

Pro Tip:

Swapping out old headlights is a beginner-friendly project. Most new headlights come with easy instructions, and you can be back on the road in an hour or less.

7. Install Parking Sensors or Backup Camera – Safer Parking, Lower Risk

Parking sensors and backup cameras were once luxuries, but now they’re affordable add-ons for any car. These devices are lifesavers when it comes to avoiding minor parking accidents, which often lead to annoying (and costly) insurance claims. Avoiding those small claims can keep your rates low over time, as insurers often hike up premiums after minor incidents.

Did You Know?

You can buy a basic backup camera kit for under $50, and many are easy to install with basic tools.

8. Fix Minor Body Damage – DIY Car Upgrades to Polish Up Your Premiums

Has your beloved ride acquired a few dents or scratches? Believe it or not, leaving them unfixed can potentially impact your insurance. Insurers sometimes charge higher rates for cars that appear less well-kept, as they assume higher chances of future claims. Taking a Saturday to smooth out minor dents or buff scratches might not get you a specific discount, but it could improve your car’s overall value and avoid potential rate hikes.

Pro Tip for your DIY Car Upgrades:

There are affordable dent puller kits you can use at home, saving you hundreds on body shop repairs.

DIY Car Upgrade Tips for Weekend Wins with Real Savings

A weekend of DIY car upgrades can lead to a better looking ride, enhanced driving experience and may even help you save on your auto insurance premium. From anti-theft devices to improved lighting and safety tools, these small fixes can add up to big savings when it comes to insurance. Whether or not you’re eligible for direct discounts, making your car safer, more efficient, and theft-resistant pays off in the long run, especially when it comes to avoiding rate hikes.

So why not set aside a bit of time to play some tunes and fine-tune your vehicle? Get a few friends together and make a weekend of it. Here’s to more rewarding DIYs and a little extra cash in your pocket!

About Associated Agents Group

When it comes to maximizing those savings, our insurance agents at Associated Agents Group Insurance can help you find the best rates for your unique lifestyle. We provide expert guidance on discounts and policies tailored to your needs, ensuring your DIY efforts make a real impact! Of course, everyone has a unique situation when it comes to auto modification needs and what modifications will best help you save. Get in touch at 509-928-7528 or fill out our contact form to get a free auto insurance quote and guidance on what safety features will help save on your premium.