Try to do a auto insurance quotes comparison with at least three different companies and possible up to six. You can either compare auto insurance rates with local agents, or you can go online. The advantage of going online to compare auto insurance is that you can get quotes from multiple companies on one screen. Make sure, however, that you're doing an apples-to-apples comparison. When you compare auto insurance, use the same coverages in all applications.

The cheapest isn't the only thing to look for when you compare auto insurance. You have to consider the insurance company themselves. Established insurance companies are your best bet for great service and responsiveness.

You might find some newer insurance companies that low-ball the premiums in order to get your business. Watch out! Companies like these sometime leave people high and dry when it comes time to pay for insurance claims. The money you saved with the premiums will be spent trying to rectify the problems you have with the company. Not only that, your rates might go up the following year, leaving you to re-do auto insurance quotes comparison.

Compare auto insurance rates and compare auto insurance companies.

When you compare auto insurance rates, make sure you do so well before your current policy expires. That way, you'll have plenty of time to compare auto insurance companies. You'll also be able to explore each company and dig for discounts. You'll also have plenty of time to ask questions of insurance agents that you can't ask online.

Once you have auto insurance comparison, you'll know exactly what goes into your premiums and be able to get the discounts that apply in your situation. You'll have a good understanding of the different coverages available, and whether or not you need to have them. Most importantly, you'll have an appreciation for the different companies and their reputations. Insurance company ratings make all the difference between a hands-off insurance experience and a full-blown insurance nightmare.