Reader’s Question:

I’m planning to buy a hybrid car here in South Bend, IN, to save gas, but my friend mentioned something about the negative effect it has on auto insurance premiums. What is that all about?

Rodel

South Bend, IN

Your friend is right. Hybrid cars tend to affect the premium rate of your insurance policy. It’s not that insurance companies does not want you to be mindful of our ozone layer, it’s just that there are factors connected to a hybrid car that increases your risk factor. It’s crazy, I know. Save the environment, feed your insurance company. According to a top insurance company, hybrid cars are more expensive to repair. Its parts cost more. Hybrids have complex parts that are expensive to replace. Owing to the complexity of its part and operation, you would need a “hybrid” mechanic also to handle the repairs. Mechanics need special training to handle a hybrid, and that effectively raises labor cost. Also, it takes longer to repair a hybrid because of its complexity. Labor payments constitute a large chunk of car accident claim costs. The higher the repair cost, the higher the premium rates go. But don’t lose hope just yet, there is still good news. The premium cost will still be cheaper compared to the gas savings you get.

So, it’s still okay to care. You can still go and save South Bend, IN, care about the ozone layer, and save money along the way.

Tags: auto insurance, car insurance cost, cheap auto insurance