
The idea that red cars have higher insurance rates is a widespread myth. Insurance companies do not use your car's color as a factor when calculating your premium. The rate is determined by objective data related to the vehicle's risk profile, the driver's history, and demographic factors.
The belief likely stems from the association of red with sports cars and aggressive driving. However, a bright red Honda Civic will not inherently cost more to insure than an identical white one. Insurers care about quantifiable risk, not subjective color associations.
The primary factors that genuinely impact your auto insurance premium include:
| Factor Category | Specific Examples | Impact on Premium |
|---|---|---|
| Vehicle Make & Model | Sports car (e.g., Chevrolet Corvette) vs. family sedan (e.g., Toyota Camry) | High vs. Low |
| Driver's History | At-fault accidents, speeding tickets, DUI convictions | Significant Increase |
| Coverage & Deductible | State minimum liability vs. full coverage with a $500 deductible | Low vs. High |
| Driver Demographics | Age (teenagers), location (urban area with high theft rates) | Varies |
| Annual Mileage | Driving 15,000 miles per year vs. 5,000 miles | Higher vs. Lower |
| Credit-Based Insurance Score | (In most states) A lower credit score can lead to higher rates | Varies |
Instead of worrying about color, focus on factors you can control. Maintaining a clean driving record, choosing a vehicle with high safety ratings, and comparing quotes from multiple insurers are proven ways to lower your insurance costs. The color of your car is a personal choice, not a financial one when it comes to insurance.

Nope, that's just an old wives' tale. I've had a red truck for years, and my insurance is the same as my neighbor's identical gray one. The agent told me they don't even ask for the color on the application. They care about your driving record, what kind of car it is, and where you park it at night. Save your energy for shopping around for better rates instead.

From an insurance industry perspective, color is irrelevant because there's no actuarial data linking it to higher claims. Premiums are calculated using hard statistics: the vehicle's theft rate, repair costs, the driver's age, and their accident history. A red car isn't statistically riskier than a blue one. The myth persists due to psychology, linking red to speed and aggression, but insurers rely on numbers, not perceptions.


