Insuring a Chevy Tahoe - What You Need to Know

The Chevy Tahoe is one of the most popular American-made full size sport utility vehicles on the market. However, its mass appeal has little effect on insurance premiums drivers can expect to pay. According to Insure.com, the Chevy Tahoe ranked right in the middle of the scale of car insurance premiums, based on data collected in 2009. The Tahoe had an average premium cost of $1,169, in comparison to the lowest premium, $832, and the highest premium, $2,533. Chevy Tahoe insurance is available from a wide array of insurance providers, but drivers should comparison shop to get the best rates and coverage. Several factors will be at play when determining the insurance premium for this vehicle that the consumer should be aware of.

Background Information on the Chevy Tahoe

Manufactured since 1995, the Chevy Tahoe was first introduced as an easy to maneuver, more compact version of the Suburban. The Tahoe is a sturdy vehicle, built with both practicality for families, and hauling capability in mind. Depending on the trim level (LS,LT, or LTZ), the Chevy Tahoe can transport between six and nine passengers. Model years from 1995-1999 did not have a third row of seats, which allowed more cargo space. The third seat row was added in some 2000's models. All model years have four wheel drive capability, which can handle rough terrain or weather conditions, such as snowy roads. The four wheel drive is an optional feature in most cases.

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Chevy Tahoe Features That May Lower Premiums

The Chevy Tahoe's size is of benefit when it comes to insuring the vehicle. Larger vehicles tend to be safer for passengers, which drives auto insurance premiums down. Also, all Tahoe model years from 2007 to 2010 have received five star crash safety ratings in the front driver and front passenger categories from the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration. The 2007-2009 model years received the five star crash safety rating for side driver and side passenger categories as well. The current Chevy Tahoe model includes safety features that can lower premiums further, including front and side curtain airbags, and a stability control system. Most models also include an anti-theft or security system.

Chevy Tahoe Factors That May Raise Premiums

Since insurance companies consider the cost of repairing a vehicle in determining premiums, some model years of Chevy Tahoe may be at a disadvantage. From the 2000-2006 model years, every model year, with the exception of 2004 and 2006 had reports of significant problems with their engines. The 2000 and 2004 model years had significant problems with the transmission and drive-line, and the 2000 and 2001 models had significant problems with their brakes. Theft statistics are also used in determining auto insurance premiums, but these statistics are not readily available for the Chevy Tahoe. However, one can assume that a highly customized Chevy Tahoe would be at increased risk for theft, and would thereby cause insurance premiums to go up.

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Conclusion

Insuring a Chevy Tahoe at a reasonable rate will require a bit of work for the driver, in terms of comparison shopping. In any case, a Chevy Tahoe driver can expect to pay much lower premiums than a driver of a sports car or luxury vehicle. Other factors, such as driver age, location, driving record, and credit history will apply--insurers will gather a lot of information before quoting a premium. All in all, the Chevy Tahoe is a solid, sturdy vehicle that has an average insurance premium cost when compared to other vehicle types.