Which Are the Main Distinctions Between a Car’s Make vs. Model?
When getting an auto insurance policy, insurers will ask you to provide different specifications about your vehicle. That’s why today we’ll go over the main distinctions between a car make vs. model.
By knowing the basics behind each, you’ll count on valuable information needed for insurance policies. After all, both of these specifications play a big part in the insurance rates you’ll be getting.
Lastly, we’ll share with you what are some other things these companies take into consideration when coming up with their rates.
What Is a Car Make ?
First, we have the car make.
This specification refers to the manufacturer or company of a vehicle. In other words, it’s the brand company that produced the vehicle. Common car manufacturers include Toyota, Chevrolet, Mazda, General Motors, Renault, Ferrari, and Tesla.
What Is a Car Model ?
On the other hand, we have a vehicle’s model.
The model refers to the specific type of vehicle. Put differently, a model is the specific car name. Some standard car models from Toyota include Yaris, Camry, Corolla, Avalon, and Prius.
Most insurance companies often ask you for the model year as well. While most people believe it corresponds to the year it was manufactured, it’s not the same. One great example of this happens when you purchase next year’s model months before January.
Make vs. Model: What Are Their Main Differences?
When it comes to the main differences between a make vs. model, remember that a vehicle’s make is the manufacturer, and the model narrows it down to its type or version. Along with the car make and model, insurance companies also ask for body style and trim levels.
How Can I Know My Car’s Model and Make ?
Believe it or not, not many drivers are aware of their exact vehicle model and make. That’s why we’ll tell you some key signs that’ll help you determine these specs.
First, make sure to inspect your vehicle. All cars count on an emblem that’s the manufacturer’s make.
Regarding its model, be sure to check the car’s registration certificate. This document often lists your vehicle identification number, manufacturer, model, year, and other equipment specs. Moreover, you can find this number on your windshield, near the dashboard on the driver’s side.
Why Should You Also Take into Account Your Car’s Body Style and Trim Levels?
As we said before in this article, insurance companies also consider a vehicle’s trim levels and body style. It’s because the make and model of your car are not enough to define its total value. For instance, you can have two Honda Civics and yet look completely different.
Here’s where these other specs come into play.
What Are Other Things Auto Insurance Companies Consider for Their Rates?
Along with a car’s specifications, multiple factors can make auto insurance rates high or low.
These are some of the main factors these companies take into account for their rates:
- Bad driving records with speeding tickets
- Whether the policy is full coverage or just a liability one
- If the car has a rebuilt title
- Opting for a commercial auto insurance
- Your insured credit score
- Demographic information such as age and location.
Bad Driving Records with Speeding Tickets
Generally, a bad driving history means that the driver is more likely to perform reckless actions. As a result, insurance companies tend to charge higher rates.
Whether the Policy Is Full Coverage or Just a Liability One
Since full coverage involves comprehensive protection, it costs much more than liability insurance, which only pays for other property damage caused by an accident in which you’re at fault.
If the Car Has a Rebuilt Title
When having a vehicle with a rebuilt title, it’s very likely that insurance companies will only provide you liability insurance. It’s difficult to determine the total value of the car. Hence, auto insurance policies are often limited.
Opting for a Commercial Auto Insurance
Commercial auto insurance is higher compared to personal policies due to the fact that these cars are on the road more. In other words, they are at a higher risk.
Your Insured Credit Score
While many people overlook their credit scores, they are a significant factor for insurance rates since drivers with poor credit scores file more claims than ones with good scores.
Demographic Information such as Age and Location
Lastly, factors such as location and age can take an enormous toll on your insurance rates.
Now that you know the difference between a car’s make vs. model, it’ll be easier to provide this information to your auto insurance company.
Remember that if you have any questions or are looking for affordable policy quotes, you can always rely on Payless Insurance. We are always glad to assist you on the journey of protecting you and your car.