Shopping for auto insurance online saves time, is easy to do and there is a good chance you can save money. The key to finding lower rates is getting rates from as many companies as possible so you can get all your choices.

Comparing auto insurance rates direct online can be a challenge if you are a beginner to quoting online. Don't let that stop you because it's actually quite easy. Getting cheaper insurance rates is not rocket science. The only requirement is to invest a few minutes getting comparison quotes online from several insurance companies. This is very easy and can be done by completing this short form.

Car insurance premiums for your 2004 can be significantly different and are calculated by many factors. Some of these factors include:

• Tickets increase premiums
• Better credit means lower rates
• Where you reside can make a big difference
• High miles vs. low miles
• Male drivers pay higher rates
• Low deductibles cost more
• Safety rating of your 2004
• Your claim history
• Having continuous coverage saves you money
• Whether you own your home

An additional factor that will help determine is the year of the vehicle. New vehicles have a higher replacement value than older models so the costs to repair may end up costing you more. Although new models may have safety features included like lane departure warning system, traction control, and autonomous braking that may help give discounted rates.

Liability coverage

This provides protection from damage that occurs to other's property or people by causing an accident. Liability coverage protects against things like legal defense fees, bail bonds, and repair bills for other people's vehicles. It is cheap coverage so you should buy as large an amount as possible.

Auto collision coverage

Collision coverage pays to fix your vehicle from damage resulting from colliding with another car or object. You first must pay a deductible then the remaining damage will be paid by your insurance company. Collision coverage makes up a good portion of your premium, so analyze the benefit of dropping coverage from older vehicles. It's also possible to raise the deductible in order to get cheaper .

Comprehensive coverage

Comprehensive insurance coverage pays to fix your vehicle from damage OTHER than collision with another vehicle or object. You first must pay your deductible and then insurance will cover the rest of the damage. The highest amount you'll receive from a claim is the cash value of the vehicle, so if the vehicle's value is low consider removing comprehensive coverage.

UM/UIM (Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist) coverage

Your UM/UIM coverage protects you and your vehicle from other motorists when they either have no liability insurance or not enough. Due to the fact that many drivers have only the minimum liability required by law, their liability coverage can quickly be exhausted. This is the reason having UM/UIM coverage is important protection for you and your family.

Medical payments coverage and PIP

Medical payments and Personal Injury Protection insurance kick in for short-term medical expenses such as nursing services, prosthetic devices, and dental work. They are utilized in addition to your health insurance policy or if you are not covered by health insurance. PIP coverage is not universally available but it provides additional coverages not offered by medical payments coverage.