You’ve probably heard the rumor: “Red cars cost more to insure.”
It’s one of the most common auto insurance myths out there—but is it actually true?
Let’s break it down and explain what really affects your car insurance rates.
The Short Answer: No, Color Does Not Affect Insurance Rates
Insurance companies do not use your car’s color when determining your premium.
Whether your car is red, blue, black, white, or green, the color itself has no impact on how much you pay for insurance.
So if you love that red sports car—don’t worry. The paint color alone won’t raise your rates.
Why the Myth Exists
The idea that red cars cost more to insure likely comes from a few misconceptions:
- Red cars are often associated with sports cars
- Sports cars tend to be faster and more expensive to repair
- Faster cars often have higher insurance premiums
It’s not the color—it’s the type of vehicle that matters.
What Actually Affects Your Auto Insurance Rate
Insurance companies calculate premiums using many real risk factors, including:
🚗 Vehicle-Related Factors
- Make and model
- Engine size and performance
- Safety ratings
- Cost to repair or replace
- Theft rates
👤 Driver-Related Factors
- Driving record
- Age and experience
- Location
- Credit history (in many states)
- Annual mileage
📄 Policy Factors
- Coverage limits
- Deductibles
- Claims history
- Type of coverage (liability vs full coverage)
None of these include vehicle color.
Do Police Ticket Red Cars More Often?
Another common myth is that red cars are pulled over more frequently. While red cars may stand out visually, studies show that speed, driving behavior, and location determine tickets—not paint color.
Again, insurers don’t use ticket color data when pricing policies.
When Color Might Indirectly Matter
The only time color could indirectly affect insurance is when:
- Certain colors are more common on high-performance vehicles
- Specialty paint colors increase repair costs
Even then, it’s the vehicle type and repair cost, not the color itself, that impacts premiums.
How to Actually Lower Your Auto Insurance Costs
If you’re looking to save money, focus on what really matters:
✔ Maintain a clean driving record
✔ Choose a vehicle with good safety ratings
✔ Increase deductibles if appropriate
✔ Bundle policies
✔ Ask about discounts
✔ Review your policy annually
These strategies are far more effective than choosing a different color car.
Final Thoughts
So, will a red car cost more to insure?
Nope. That’s a myth.
Your insurance rate is based on risk factors like your driving history, location, vehicle type, and coverage—not the color of your car.
If you’re shopping for a new vehicle or reviewing your policy, a quick conversation with your insurance agent can help you find the best coverage at the best price.