If you're shopping for a used car on a budget, the purchase price is only half the story. Insurance costs can vary wildly between models, and picking one of the cheapest 2nd hand cars to insure can save you hundreds of dollars a year. In this guide, we'll show you which used cars get the lowest premiums and why.
Why Insurance Costs Vary for Used Cars
Insurance companies base rates on several factors: the car's safety rating, repair costs, theft rate, and overall claim history. A model that's cheap to fix and rarely stolen will almost always cost less to insure. Age matters too — older cars with lower market values usually mean lower comprehensive and collision premiums. But not all old cars are equal. Some have expensive parts or high accident rates that push up costs.
For example, a 10-year-old luxury sedan might still cost a lot to insure because its parts are pricey. Meanwhile, a 10-year-old Honda Civic is cheap to fix and has a solid safety record, making it one of the cheapest 2nd hand cars to insure.
Top 5 Cheapest 2nd Hand Cars to Insure
1. Honda Civic (2015–2020)
The Civic is a perennial favorite for cheap insurance. Its high production volume means parts are everywhere, and repair costs are low. Safety scores are excellent, and theft rates are moderate. Expect to pay around $100–$130 per month for full coverage on a 2017 model.
2. Toyota Corolla (2014–2019)
Like the Civic, the Corolla is reliable, safe, and inexpensive to repair. Insurance rates are consistently low — roughly $95–$125 per month. It's also one of the most fuel-efficient used cars, saving you money at the pump.
3. Subaru Outback (2013–2018)
Surprisingly, this wagon has lower-than-average insurance costs thanks to its strong safety record and low theft rate. Drivers with a clean record often pay $110–$140 per month for a 2015 Outback.
4. Ford Escape (2015–2020)
Compact SUVs like the Escape offer good visibility and safety features, which insurers reward. Expect premiums around $100–$135 per month for a 2017 model.
5. Mazda3 (2014–2019)
The Mazda3 is sporty but practical. Its insurance rates are competitive — roughly $105–$130 per month. The car's low claim frequency and affordable parts keep premiums down.
These models consistently appear on lists of cheapest 2nd hand cars to insure because they balance low ownership costs with solid safety.
How to Get the Best Rate on a Used Car
Even if you pick a car from the list above, there are ways to lower your premium further:
- Shop around: Compare quotes from at least three insurers. Geico, Progressive, and State Farm often have competitive rates for used cars.
- Raise your deductible: Increasing your comprehensive and collision deductible from $500 to $1,000 can cut your premium by 10–20%.
- Bundle policies: If you have renters or homeowners insurance, bundling with auto can save you up to 15%.
- Ask about discounts: Good student, low mileage, and defensive driving courses all qualify for discounts.
- Check the vehicle history report: A car with a clean title and no accidents may qualify for lower rates.
FAQ: Cheapest 2nd Hand Cars to Insure
Q: What makes a used car cheap to insure?
A: Insurers look at the car's safety rating, repair costs, theft frequency, and claim history. Cars with high safety scores and low claim rates get the best rates. That's why the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla are consistently among the cheapest 2nd hand cars to insure — they're safe, reliable, and cheap to fix.
Q: Do older cars always cost less to insure?
A: Not exactly. While a car's value drops over time, some older models have expensive parts or poor safety records that keep premiums high. For example, a 10-year-old luxury sedan can cost more to insure than a newer economy car. Always check specific models when searching for the cheapest 2nd hand cars to insure.
Q: How can I get an insurance quote before buying?
A: You can enter the vehicle's VIN or model year on an insurer's website to get a quote. Comparison tools like The Zebra or NerdWallet make it easy to compare multiple rates. This step ensures the car you're considering is truly one of the cheapest 2nd hand cars to insure in your area.
Q: Are there any other costs to consider?
A: Besides insurance, budget for maintenance, fuel, and registration. Fortunately, models that are the cheapest 2nd hand cars to insure also tend to be economical and reliable, keeping your total cost of ownership low. Always run the numbers before signing the papers.
Q: Can I lower my premium further after buying?
A: Yes, you can adjust your coverage limits, increase deductibles, or take a defensive driving course. Also, bundling with home or renters insurance can save 10-15%. Many insurers offer usage-based programs that reward safe driving.
Final Thoughts
The cheapest 2nd hand cars to insure are typically mainstream Japanese and American models with strong safety records and affordable parts. The Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla are nearly unbeatable for low premiums, but don't overlook the Subaru Outback or Ford Escape if you need more space.
Before you buy, get insurance quotes for the specific model year and trim you're considering. Rates can vary by zip code, so a car that's cheap to insure in one state might cost more in another. Do your homework, and you'll drive away with a car that's affordable both to buy and to insure.
No signals yet — transmit the first.