Car Insurance for Ford Explorer Hybrid: What You Need to Know
The Ford Explorer Hybrid is one of the most popular hybrid SUVs on the market today. With its impressive fuel economy and abundant cargo space, it appeals to many drivers looking to go green without sacrificing utility. However, insuring a hybrid vehicle like the Explorer can be confusing given all the coverage options and factors that determine premiums.
This article provides an in-depth look at Ford Explorer Hybrid insurance to help drivers make informed choices. We will examine:
Key factors affecting insurance rates
Average insurance costs
Ford Insure program details
Components of a Comprehensive Policy
Ford protection plans
FAQs and tips for getting the best deal
Key Takeaways
Insuring a Ford Explorer Hybrid requires understanding how hybrids impact insurance rates, coverages needed, and ways to find savings. Key points:
Location, driving record, and other factors determine premiums
Compare quotes across multiple insurance companies
Leverage the Ford Insure program for Ford owners
Review policy components like liability limits and deductibles
Add Ford Extended Service Plans for repair coverage
Ask about all available discounts to lower your rate
Work with an agent who specializes in insuring hybrids
Consider the Explorer Hybrid's environmental benefits
Understand Ford Insure's claims process and customer reviews
Factors Affecting Car Insurance Rates
Insuring a Ford Explorer Hybrid can be more expensive than insuring a traditional gas-powered SUV. Insurance companies consider the Explorer Hybrid's higher price, repair costs, and safety features when calculating premiums. Key factors impacting insurance rates include:
Location
Where you live significantly influences insurance costs. Urban areas like New York City or Los Angeles tend to have higher premiums due to more accidents, traffic, vandalism, and theft. Suburban and rural areas generally have lower rates.
Driving History
Your personal driving record over the past 3-5 years is a major factor. Tickets, accidents, DUI/DWI offenses, and claims will raise rates. Maintaining a clean record with no violations keeps premiums lower.
Age
Younger drivers under 25 are considered higher risk and charged more. Mature drivers over 50 tend to pay the lowest rates based on experience.
Model Year
Newer model years cost more to insure because replacement parts are pricier. Older models depreciate and are cheaper to repair.
Trim Levels
Higher trim Explorer Hybrid models like Limited and Platinum have more safety features but also cost more to insure. Base XLT models have lower rates.
Trim |
Average Annual Premium |
|---|---|
XLT |
$1,512 |
Limited |
$1,632 |
Platinum |
$1,752 |
Table data source: TheZebra.com
Additional factors:
Annual mileage
Multi-car discounts
Anti-theft devices
Good student discounts
Hybrid vehicle discounts
Defensive driver discounts
Insurance companies use complex formulas and proprietary models to calculate premiums based on these criteria. Policies and rates can vary widely between insurers for similar drivers. That's why comparison shopping is crucial to finding the best Ford Explorer Hybrid insurance option. Working with an independent insurance agent provides personalized guidance to understand how these factors impact your specific situation and options.
Average Car Insurance Rates for Ford Explorer Hybrid
Understanding average insurance costs for the Explorer Hybrid can provide a baseline for comparison shopping. However, your personal profile and factors discussed earlier may result in higher or lower rates.
Average Annual Premiums by Year
The table below shows the national average annual premiums for a Ford Explorer Hybrid by model year. Rates are based on a profile of a 45-year-old driver with a clean record and good credit.
Model Year |
Average Annual Premium |
|---|---|
2023 |
$1,795 |
2022 |
$1,751 |
2021 |
$1,512 |
2020 |
$1,488 |
2019 |
$1,398 |
2018 |
$1,365 |
2017 |
$1,256 |
Table data source: The Zebra
As you can see, premiums are higher for newer model years and decrease as the vehicle ages. This reflects the higher replacement costs factored in by insurance companies.
Variation in Rates by Insurance Company
While the averages provide a baseline, actual rates can vary widely based on the insurance company. For example, for a 2023 Ford Explorer Hybrid:
Geico offers an average annual premium of $1,568
Allstate charges $3,145
State Farm's average is $1,406
Progressive charges $2,066
Key takeaways:
Rates from different insurers can vary by over $430 for the same driver and vehicle
Comparison shopping is critical to finding the best rate
An independent agent can quote multiple companies to find you the lowest premium
Working with an insurance agent provides the advantage of accessing multiple carriers and identifying hidden discounts to ensure you pay the absolute lowest premium possible while still getting the coverage you need.
Ford Insure
Ford Insure is the automaker's own insurance program designed specifically for Ford vehicles. It offers unique benefits and discounts for Ford owners.
Description of Ford Insure
Provided by Nationwide Insurance
Available in 40 states
Specializes in insuring Ford models
Usage-based option using onboard telematics
Ford Insure focuses on protecting Ford drivers with tailored coverages and rate discounts.
Benefits and Discounts
Ford Insure provides these valuable perks:
Discount for bundling home/auto insurance
Multi-vehicle discount
Multiple payment options
24/7 claims service
Online account management
Access to Ford Licensed Repair shops
Special discounts for Ford Explorer Hybrid:
Hybrid vehicle discounts of up to 10%
Safety feature discount
Low mileage discount
Eligibility and Coverage
Policies available for:
New and used Ford vehicles
Drivers must be Ford/Lincoln owners
A good driving history required
Coverages match standard options:
Liability
Comprehensive
Collision
Uninsured motorist
Underinsured motorist
Medical payments
For Ford owners, Ford Insure provides a competitive option to find substantial savings on Ford Explorer Hybrid insurance.
Understanding Car Insurance Policy
When purchasing Ford Explorer Hybrid insurance, it's important to understand what a car insurance policy includes. Key components provide the structure for your legal contract with the insurer.
Insuring Agreements
These outline the fundamental promises between you and the insurance company:
Types of losses covered
Defense promise if you are sued
Duty to settle covered claims
Declarations Page
This page details:
Named insured drivers
Covered vehicle(s)
Policy period
Coverages and limits
Premium costs
Exclusions
Exclusions list losses not covered by the policy. Common examples:
Normal wear and tear
Mechanical breakdowns
Damage from nuclear disasters
Racing and stunt driving
Conditions
Conditions spell out your required duties as a policyholder:
Premium payment
Notification of changes
Cooperation in the claims process
Proof of loss documentation
Endorsements
Endorsements add, delete, or alter coverage:
Accident forgiveness
Roadside assistance
Rental car reimbursement
Custom equipment coverage
Reviewing key components helps you understand coverages and obligations when buying Ford Explorer Hybrid insurance. An agent can explain the policy and confirm it aligns with your specific needs and budget.
Ford Credit Vehicle Protection Plans
In addition to insurance, Ford offers optional protection plans to cover repairs after the factory warranty expires.
Overview of Plans
Ford Credit offers two vehicle service contract options:
Ford Protect Extended Service Plans - Covers 1,000+ components
Ford Protect Maintenance Plans - Covers scheduled maintenance
These plans are backed by Ford Motor Company and honored at all Ford dealerships.
Ford Protect Extended Service Plans
Key details:
Available for new and used Ford vehicles
Coverage terms of 3 years/36,000 miles up to 7 years/100,000 miles
Choose from Powertrain, Platinum, ExtraCARE, and PremiumCARE plans
$0 deductible for covered repairs
Transferable if selling the vehicle
Ideal for budgeting and avoiding surprise Ford Explorer Hybrid repair bills.
Coverage After Factory Warranty
The Ford Explorer Hybrid's New Vehicle Limited Warranty covers:
3 years/36,000 miles bumper-to-bumper
5 years/60,000 miles powertrain
A Ford Extended Service Plan protects against breakdowns and high repair costs after the factory warranty expires.
These Ford protection plans provide affordable peace of mind to Ford owners. Consider adding one when buying Ford Explorer Hybrid insurance for comprehensive mechanical breakdown protection.
Environmental Benefits of Insuring a Hybrid
Opting to insure a Ford Explorer Hybrid or other hybrid vehicle supports greater environmental sustainability in several ways:
Reduced emissions - Hybrids like the Explorer emit significantly less greenhouse gases and air pollutants than gas-only models. This improves air quality and reduces your carbon footprint.
Lower fuel consumption - The Explorer Hybrid's EPA estimated range is 500+ miles per tank thanks to its electric motor and ability to maximize gas efficiency. Less fuel burned means less environmental impact.
Mainstream adoption - Consumer demand for hybrids encourages automakers to expand hybrid technology to more vehicle segments. This proliferation supports cleaner transportation overall.
Longer lifespan - Hybrid components like batteries are built to last 10-15 years. Drivers keep hybrids longer than gas vehicles, further optimizing their eco-friendly design.
Ford Insure Claims and Reviews
Filing an insurance claim can be stressful. Understanding Ford Insure's claims process and customer feedback provides useful insight.
Claims Process
24/7 claims reporting via the app, online, or by phone
Claims assigned to a Ford Insure agent
Vehicle inspection and estimate
Dispatch to Ford Certified repair shop
Communicate repair status and settlements
Manage rental car if needed
Designed to be convenient, transparent, and hassle-free.
Customer Reviews
Overall, Ford Insure earns positive reviews:
4 out of 5 stars average across review sites
Praise for fast and easy claims resolution
Appreciation of repair shop options
Some concerns noted on usage-based tracking
Sources:
FAQ
Below are answers to common questions about insuring a Ford Explorer Hybrid:
Is a Ford Explorer Hybrid more expensive to insure than a gas model?
Yes, hybrid vehicles typically cost more to insure due to higher replacement part costs. However, Ford Explorer Hybrid drivers can offset the increase with available discounts.
What discounts are available?
Multi-policy
Anti-theft devices
Low mileage
Good driver
Hybrid vehicle
Safety feature
Good student
Should I insure with Ford Insure or independent companies?
Ford Insure offers special discounts for Ford owners. But independent agents can shop multiple carriers to find you the best overall rate.
What coverages do I need?
Always get liability and collision coverage. Comprehensive and uninsured motorists are also recommended. Discuss needs with an agent.
How much coverage is advisable?
Experts recommend:
$100,000 bodily injury per person
$300,000 bodily injury per accident
$100,000 property damage
$500/$1,000 collision and comprehensive deductibles
Adjust limits and deductibles based on your budget and risk tolerance.
Disclaimer
This article provides general information about insuring a Ford Explorer Hybrid. Coverages, rates, and discounts can vary by state and insurance company. For specific details on available plans, pricing, and eligibility, please consult a licensed insurance agent or company representative.
The policy overviews in this article are for illustrative purposes only. Please refer to an actual insurance policy for the exact coverages, exclusions, limitations, and terms that would apply.
The average rate data presented is based on certain driver profiles and risk factors. Your actual premium may differ based on your individual circumstances and insurance provider. We recommend comparing personalized quotes from multiple carriers to find the best rate for your situation.
The information provided in this article is not intended as insurance, financial, tax, or legal advice. Please consult a professional in the appropriate field for guidance regarding your specific insurance needs and risk profile. Laws and regulations are subject to change without notice - we recommend verifying your state's current requirements.
Conclusion
Finding the right Ford Explorer Hybrid insurance requires weighing many factors. Key points covered in this article include:
Location, driving record, and other criteria that impact premiums
Comparing rates from multiple insurance companies
Leveraging the Ford Insure program
Understanding policy components and coverage options
Considering Ford protection plans to supplement insurance
While insuring a hybrid SUV can be more expensive, the Explorer's safety ratings, fuel economy, and performance make it a great choice. Taking the time to educate yourself on available discounts and working with an agent to optimize your policy saves money while providing essential protection.
We recommend contacting a professional insurance agent who specializes in insuring hybrid vehicles. They have the expertise to compare pricing and identify savings opportunities. Finding an optimal balance of robust coverage and affordable premiums takes an experienced advisor.
In closing, with smart planning and an optimized Ford Explorer Hybrid insurance policy, you can confidently enjoy the benefits of this capable, eco-friendly SUV. Reach out today to start the process and get a quote customized for your specific needs.
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