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You’ve been dreaming and planning about hitting the open road and going on a full-fledged road trip. Maybe you want to do a cross-country expedition and see the sights, or you want to head up and down the coast and find a new beach to soak your feet in every day. Whatever your dream is, you want to make sure you’re prepared ahead of time.

Check out our road trip car checklist before you hit the road. The last thing you want to do is be unprepared or deal with issues when trying to have an adventure of a lifetime.

Fill up your tank and check your fluids.

Before hitting the road, of course, you need to fill up your gas tank. Your vehicle needs gas to keep going for long hours on the road. 

Aside from filling up your gas tank, check your engine oil as well. It may be time to change your oil. A good rule of thumb is to replace the oil in your car before you rack up several thousands of miles on your vehicle. 

It’s also a good idea to check your other fluids, such as your windshield washer, engine coolant, and power steering and transmission fluids. You’ll want every part of your vehicle to be at its best while on the road.

Check your filters.

You don’t want to forget to check your filters before a long drive. Your engine air filter helps keep out any extra materials or debris from your engine. If your engine air filter is dirty, it might be time for a change. Be sure to check your engine air filter and replace it if needed before your road trip. 

Another filter to check is your car’s cabin filter. You want to breathe fresh while in your car for long periods. You may be able to use a vacuum to remove dust or use a cleaning solution that helps you rinse it out. 

Changing your filters can help with overall efficiency and performance.

Make sure your tires are full.

If the air in your tires is a bit dull and flat, it can have a negative impact on the car’s fuel efficiency. When on a road trip, you’ll want to maximize efficiency while on the road, so be sure to check your tire pressure ahead of time. 

Many new vehicles will let you know if the tire pressure is getting into the danger zone, but if you have an older car without alerts, you’ll want to check yourself. 

You can get a pneumatic gauge to check where your tires are at. Review your car owner’s manual to understand the recommended tire pressure for your types of tires, and if needed, find the nearest air pump at a gas station and fill up your tires with air. 

Don’t fill up your tires any more than necessary, and make sure you have a spare tire ready to go.

Look at your car’s battery.

You’ll want to check your car’s battery before a road trip. Your battery is a crucial part of keeping everything running in your car, so you want to check it before your road trip.

Make sure your battery is clean, and there is no battery corrosion. Additionally, ensure your car battery is secure and in place. If you start to hear out-of-the-ordinary sounds, such as cranking, it might be time for a battery replacement.
 
If you expect to park your car for a while at one of your pit stops, make sure to start your car and run the battery every so often.

Take a look at the belts and hoses.

Before going on a road trip, take a look at the belts and hoses under the hood of your car. You want to make sure that the belts are tightly secured. You also want to see if there is any damage, such as cracks or frays, that can affect the belt. 

Also, while you’re under your car’s hood, check the hoses for any leaks or holes, as they could cause issues later if not addressed or fixed now.

Test the brakes.

Having your brakes work properly is key to having a safe road trip. Your brakes can prevent accidents and help keep you and others safe.

Ask yourself: Can you fully engage the brake? Are there any weird sounds when you use the brake?

If you hear a high-pitched sound when you brake, you should get your brakes checked out by a professional before heading out on your trip. The professional can advise you if your brakes need maintenance, replacement, or just some brake fluid.

Check out the electrical equipment.

As part of your regular car maintenance, you should remember to check out the electrical equipment in your vehicle. You should ensure everything is in good shape before your road trip, too. 

Double-check: Are your lights still working? Is your dashboard still working? Do your turn signals work? 

Make sure all the electronics on your vehicle are good to go so you can safely drive. You don’t want to be caught for a surprise when you’re on a remote road or far away from the nearest repair shop.

Consider getting roadside assistance coverage.

Before going on a road trip, you want to think of any issues that may arise. You want to hope for the “best” but plan for the “worst” too, because you just never know. 

One way to protect yourself is to get roadside assistance coverage. 

Roadside assistance can help you if you get stranded or have any issues while on the road. Metromile offers roadside assistance assurance for a few dollars a month and includes car battery jump-starts, locksmith services, tows, and more.

The bottom line

Before hitting the road for a grand adventure and finalizing your epic playlist, do your due diligence to make sure your car is safe and in good shape for long trips. Using this road trip car checklist can give you everything you might need to have a safe and fun road trip.

Having the right auto insurance is also essential before you drive. 

Metromile’s pay-per-mile auto insurance provides the same great coverage you’re used to with some potential added savings.

Drivers can save 47% a year on average when they switch to Metromile, according to a 2018 survey of drivers who saved with Metromile. Get a free insurance quote, and see if pay-per-mile insurance is right for you with Ride Along™, a free trial available on the Metromile app. You can earn up to an extra 15% off your Metromile quote after showing you’re a safe driver (you’ll need to keep your current insurance provider for the 17-day trial to maintain coverage) in select states. 

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Melanie Lockert is a freelance writer, podcast host of the Mental Health and Wealth show, and author of Dear Debt. She’s a cat mom to two jazzy cats, Miles and Thelonious, an amateur boxer, music lover, and needs coffee to function.

You’ve looked everywhere — your home, the car, under the pile of papers. You can’t find your car keys and are reaching the point of surrender. 

If you lost your car keys, understandably, you’ll want to find a replacement and regain access to your vehicle. If you need a car key replacement because you’re locked out of your car, here’s what to do.

Getting a transponder key

Many modern vehicles use sophisticated anti-theft devices, such as a transponder key. Transponder keys use a computer chip that connects your car and the key to get the engine started. 

The chip sends a serial number that is unique to your car. When the signal is received properly, your car can then be unlocked and used. 

Unfortunately, if your lost car keys have a transponder key, you need to head to your local dealership to get a car key replacement. Because you can’t get in the car, you’ll likely need to get towed to the dealership to get a new car key.

To make sure you’re the rightful owner of the vehicle, you’ll need to provide proof of ownership, such as your car registration or title. 
The dealership can create a car key replacement by pairing a new chip with your car. This could potentially cost you a couple of hundred dollars. You can also see if a local automotive locksmith can help you at a lower cost.

Replacing traditional car keys

Though they’re less common now, you may have a traditional car key. Traditional car keys don’t use a chip to unlock or start your car, and the replacement can be easier and more affordable than other types of car keys.

If you need to replace a traditional car key, you can get in touch with a local automotive locksmith who can get you a new one. A locksmith will likely be your most affordable option. 

If you don’t have a locksmith nearby, or if one can’t help you get a replacement car key, you can consider getting a replacement at a local car dealership that serves your car’s make or brand.

Having a car key fob

If you have a car key fob and lost it, you may still be able to use a traditional key to open the vehicle and get it started. Standalone car key fobs are typically made for convenience and don’t necessarily replace the ability to use a traditional car key.

If you need to buy a new car fob, you can often buy one online, at an automotive store, or at your local dealership. The dealership can likely program the fob for you for a small cost of $100 or less.

Getting a new switchblade key and fob

A lot of modern cars have combined the car key fob with a switchblade key. A switchblade-type key is a mechanism that folds into a key handle and opens up at the push of a button. 

If you need to replace a switchblade key and fob, it’s best to go to a car dealership. This could cost you a couple of hundred dollars.

Find a smart key replacement

The advances in technology have made their way to car culture with smart keys, often referred to as keyless ignition. If you have a dashboard that includes a start button to get the vehicle going, you have a smart key.

The smart key has a sensor that connects with the button in your vehicle and lets you start the car. Without the smart key, you don’t have the sensor to make the right connection. 

If you need a smart key replaced, you’ll need to get to the car dealership. This can also cost several hundred dollars and is generally the most expensive type of car key to replace.

The bottom line

No one ever wants to lose their car keys. While it can be costly or time-consuming, it’s generally possible to get a new car key or car key replacement, no matter the type of key or car you have. You will generally need to find an automotive locksmith or your nearest car dealership.

Adding roadside assistance coverage to your auto insurance policy could come in handy if you can’t get back into your car. Metromile’s roadside assistance helps drivers with tows and locksmith services, depending on your policy and coverage purchased. 

Want to get more from your car insurance? Check out Metromile and pay-per-mile auto insurance. 
You can get an online quote or check how much you could save if you switched by taking a free Ride Along™ trial from the Metromile app. You can earn additional savings of up to 15% off your initial Metromile quote after you show you’re a safe driver during your trial (you’ll need to keep your current insurance provider to maintain coverage) in select states.

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Melanie Lockert is a freelance writer, podcast host of the Mental Health and Wealth show, and author of Dear Debt. She’s a cat mom to two jazzy cats, Miles and Thelonious, an amateur boxer, music lover, and needs coffee to function.

If your old car is on its last legs or you’re simply ready for an upgrade, a new car may be in your future. The car buying process can feel daunting, especially if you’re not sure where to start.
If you want to know how to buy a new car, consider these eight steps to find the right car for you.

How to buy a new car in 8 steps

1. Determine how much you can afford.

Understandably, you want a deal on your car purchase. No one wants to pay more than they really should.

Before you start, it’s essential to determine what you can afford. It’s fun to think about our “dream car,” but our budgets and lifestyle may have other ideas. 

To start, determine how you will pay for your car. You can pay cash or take on auto financing. 

If you have cash on hand, fantastic! If you decide to take an auto loan to finance your car purchase, you’ll need to keep in mind:

• The overall total you’re borrowing (i.e., your loan amount)
• Your monthly payment amount
• The interest rate of the loan
• Repayment term or how long your loan payments will last

Each of these factors will typically affect the total cost of your auto loan. 

After considering your current income, existing expenses, any debt you might have, and your other financial goals, make sure your car purchase doesn’t break your budget. Your budget will need to allow for everything else you want or need in your life.

2. Research vehicles.

After determining a budget for your new car purchase, research new vehicles that fit within your budget. You’ll also want to consider your lifestyle and needs as well. For example, you’ll need a different car if you’re living alone in a city than if you have a family and need to drive your kids around town.

A good place to find different makes and models of vehicles for sale is an online car marketplace. You can research new or used vehicles for sale, like how you might buy shoes or anything else online.

When shopping for a car, you’ll want to consider durability, dependability, and the total cost of car ownership. You might also want to understand:

• Does the type of car typically need a lot of maintenance or repairs?
• Are there known issues with the type of car?
• What is the typical fuel efficiency or miles per gallon for the vehicle? 
• What is the depreciation like on this model? 
• How safe is the car?

When shopping for a car, it’s easy to look at upfront costs, such as the price of the car, the cost of any accessories or add-ons, or the fees associated with financing, but you’ll need to think about the long-term. As a car owner, you’ll also want to think about additional costs, including maintenance, repairs, gas, and depreciation as part of your budgeting.

3. Get pre-approved for an auto loan.

Cars are often expensive, so you might need to secure some financing before you can make the big purchase.

Before heading to a car dealership, look into getting pre-approved for an auto loan at a reputable bank, credit union, or lender. A good place to start is any financial institution you already have a relationship with, as they might be able to provide benefits or discounts because of your existing accounts. 

Getting pre-approved before you buy your car could also earn you a more competitive interest rate. Financing at a car dealership may not be the best available rate, and you may end up paying more than you would elsewhere. 

You also may have more leverage or room to negotiate prices or rates if you get a pre-approval ahead of time.

4. Get a car insurance quote.

On top of any monthly payments for your car and the regular costs of gas, maintenance, and repairs, you’ll also likely need to get car insurance coverage. 

The make and model of your vehicle impacts the price you pay for auto insurance. Before you make a car purchase, it could be beneficial to review average or typical car insurance premium costs for any car you’re considering.

If you don’t often drive (many Americans drive 40 miles or less every day), you could save money with a pay-per-mile car insurance policy. Car owners and drivers could save 47% a year on average, according to a 2018 survey of new customers who saved with Metromile.

5. Compare prices ahead of time and get quotes from a dealership.

Don’t start your car purchase unprepared.

It’s a good idea to do some legwork before heading to a car dealership or searching online. You’ll want to compare prices for specific makes and models so that you can easily spot if any quotes or prices are off base. 

You might find different prices for the same vehicles at different car dealerships or online car marketplaces. 

Often, you can email different dealerships and get a quote on any cars you’re considering. You can also use websites to research typical car prices and any discounts, incentives, or rebates that might be available.

When you ask for a quote, make sure you get the total cost of the car, inclusive of any taxes and fees, so that you can make fair, apples-to-apples comparisons.

Research ahead of time can keep you from getting overcharged or a lower trade-in value when you make your car purchase.

6. Schedule a test drive.

Once you’ve determined your budget and found car makes and models you like, it’s time to see if each car is the right fit for you and how you like to drive. That’s where a test drive comes in. 

Schedule a test drive ahead of time so that you can get a feel for the car and how it rides on the road. 

Plan on dedicating several hours to test driving so that you’re not rushed. Consider taking notes about features you like or don’t like on your phone, or bring a notepad with you for your test drive. Your notes can help you compare features or remind you of things you didn’t like after the test drive.

7. Score a deal.

Once you’ve found the car of your dreams, it’s time to move forward and look for the best price. 

If you have a pre-approved offer, use the quote or rate as a starting point for your negotiations.

Remember: You shouldn’t feel pressured into anything. A car is a major purchase and something you’ll have for a long time. It only makes sense that the purchase might take a long time, too.

Be sure to ask about any fees and be wary of any upsells. Consider declining any extras they try to sell you if you don’t really need them. 

You could also save money by opting for a shorter repayment term if you’re financing your car. You will have larger monthly payments, but you’ll typically pay less in interest over time.

8. Buy the car.

After you’ve done the research, taken a test drive, and determined how much and how you’ll pay for your car, it’s time to drive off with your new set of wheels. 

Before you get on the road, you’ll want to review any paperwork carefully. Don’t leave the dealership or make a purchase online without reviewing all the terms.

Don’t forget to ask about anything you don’t recognize and get any benefits, discounts, or complimentary add-ons you’ve negotiated in writing. After signing any paperwork, remember to keep a copy for yourself.

When buying a car, you can also ask if the dealership will register the vehicle for you. Car registration can be a complicated and lengthy process, but they may be able to help.

The bottom line

Buying a new car can be a rewarding process, but it can also be an overwhelming experience. These steps can help you get a good deal on your car and make an informed decision before you make a purchase.

After you make your purchase, you should also make sure you have the right car insurance coverage for your vehicle and lifestyle.

You can see if Metromile is right for you with a free trial. Download the Metromile app from your favorite app store and start a Ride Along™. After driving for about two weeks (you’ll want to keep your current insurance policy to keep your coverage during the trial), Metromile will tell you how much you could save by switching insurance companies. In some states, you can also earn up to an extra 15% off your initial Metromile quote for being a safe driver during your Ride Along™ trial.

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Melanie Lockert is a freelance writer, podcast host of the Mental Health and Wealth show, and author of Dear Debt. She’s a cat mom to two jazzy cats, Miles and Thelonious, an amateur boxer, music lover, and needs coffee to function.

Three months after Prachi Shah joined Metromile, the company transitioned to remote work in response to COVID-19. At many companies, the change would have made getting to know teammates and building strong relationships tougher. But according to Prachi, that was not the case at Metromile.

“I feel connected with my colleagues as we have built trust and established effective communication, even though it’s all done during remote work. When we were in the middle of the pandemic, many employees were stressed, which was impacting their mental health. Metromilers did their best to stay connected as well as establish a culture of positivity and motivation during those tough times,” she said. “I think that kept us going because, while we were social-distanced, we had our team.”

Prachi has been a software engineer and a technical leader for more than 11 years, primarily working at financial-technology firms. After spending many years in fintech, she wanted some change, she said. When she found Metromile, “it just clicked, and everything worked out very well.”

Prachi is a senior software engineer working on the quote experience team. From the moment you visit Metromile.com and start a quote through enrolling in a policy, you are interacting with the product Prachi has built. She is also working on expanding Metromile’s footprint, leading efforts to expand the quote experience to more states. 

“It’s a very high visibility, high-pressure team. For me, this is great because that’s how I naturally operate, and so I fit in very well. I’m working at my highest potential, and I know I can do better, so I have to keep on learning,” Prachi said. “At the end of the day, when I do meaningful work and make an impact, then I’m the happiest, and I have a sense of fulfillment.”

The culture at Metromile contributes to a great work environment for employees and measurably better products and services, Prachi said. Teams have evolved to break down traditional silos, so the best ideas make it into production.

“Metromile has a great mix of talented individuals who have diverse backgrounds, experiences and ideas. I work with individuals who are adaptable, open-minded, understand priorities and always go that extra mile for our customers. I think that is the biggest value of Metromile: smart thinkers and leaders add valuable contributions to our products and services.”

For Prachi, the size and operating norms of the company also make a difference. 

“Compared to some bigger firms, working at Metromile is different because I not only solve good technical challenges, but I learned the domain very well and became a subject matter expert,” she said.

As Prachi looks toward her two-year anniversary with Metromile, summing up her experience and advice for others came naturally to her.

“If you want to level up, solve interesting problems, and contribute to products that make a difference, then the whole culture at Metromile is set up for you to do that. Metromilers have plenty of chances to make meaningful decisions, showcase their work, and get the required support and appreciation from their peers. No idea is rejected. Everyone’s perspective and ideas are listened to.” 

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We’re building a community of drivers who come to Metromile for the savings and stay for the experience. Our diverse team combines the best of Silicon Valley technologists with veterans from Fortune 500 insurers and financial services giants focused on using technology to reinvent insurance as a tool for financial resiliency.

Check out open positions at Metromile or give our pay-per-mile auto insurance a try by taking a free Ride Along™ trial from the Metromile app.

As a driver, you want to keep your driving record in good standing and avoid things like traffic violations, car accidents, and driving under the influence. 

When you do have an infraction, state departments of motor vehicles may add points to your driving record. Unlike a game, these aren’t points you want to rack up. You could get your driver’s license suspended if you get too many points in a certain period of time.

Here’s what you should know about driver’s license points and how they might affect your auto insurance or ability to continue driving.

What are driver’s license points?

Driver’s license points are typically included on your driver record if you have had a moving violation or another serious type of infraction.

Each state and motor vehicle department calculates driver’s license points differently, and one infraction may earn you points in one state and not another. In other states, there aren’t points at all.

Typically, the more severe or unsafe your infraction is judged to be, the more points you might earn on your driving record.

Here are six things you should know about driver’s license points:

1. Car insurance companies typically don’t use your driver’s license points.

If you get a speeding ticket or are involved in a car accident, you might worry about your car insurance rates increasing, but a change to your premium costs isn’t guaranteed or immediate. 

Car insurance companies typically don’t use the driver’s license points that track your infractions and violations. 

However, this doesn’t mean you’re going to get away scot-free after an infraction. Your rates may still go up, as car insurance companies have their own methodology that evaluates each violation to determine how it will affect your auto insurance premium. 

Car insurance companies treat tickets and violations differently, so you may want to shop for another insurance policy if your rate increases after getting points added to your driver’s license. Another insurance company may not require you to pay as high a surcharge as your current provider.

2. How many points you can get on your driver’s license depends on your state.

Each state department of motor vehicles assigns points differently. For example, the California Department of Motor Vehicles considers speeding a one-point conviction. The far more severe DUI or hit-and-run accident are two points. 

Here’s how many points you can get on your driver’s license before its suspended in each state or territory, according to their respective departments of motor vehicles:

3. Not every incident will lead to points on your record.

The good news is not everything will lead to points on your record. You typically won’t get points added to your driving record for more minor issues like parking tickets, broken lights, or outdated tags. Instead, you’ll have to pay a fine and correct the issue.

Moving violations such as speeding, driving under the influence, and at-fault accidents, almost always cause points on your record.

4. How long points stay on your license depends on the violation and your state.

Points don’t stay on your driving record forever. How long points stay on your record depends on the type of violation and your state. For example, violations can stay on your record anywhere between three and ten years in California. Driving under the influence and other severe convictions remain on your driving record for 10 years. 

Check with your state’s department of motor vehicles to see how long points stay on your record for your specific violation.

5. You can remove points from your driving record.

In some cases, you may be able to remove points from your driver’s license and clean up your driving record. 

In some states, you may be able to take a defensive driving course or attend traffic school to remove a ticket and the points from your conviction from your record. 

If you believe you received a ticket in error, you can also contest the ticket. You could get the ticket thrown out or pay a lower fine. Keep in mind: You may have to pay administrative or court fees to contest a ticket.

6. You can check how many points you have on your license.

If you want to check how many points you have on your license, you’ll want to go to your state’s department of motor vehicles and obtain your driving record. You can request a copy of your driving report online or by mail. You may also have to visit a local office in person. 

Be aware: You’ll typically have to pay a small fee, anywhere from $2 to $25 depending on your state, to get a copy of your driving record.

The bottom line

Whether it’s a speeding ticket, a fender bender, or an at-fault accident, getting points added to your license can have serious impacts. The good news is you can sometimes take steps to reduce the impact on your driving privileges or your auto insurance rates.

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Melanie Lockert is a freelance writer, podcast host of the Mental Health and Wealth show, and author of Dear Debt. She’s a cat mom to two jazzy cats, Miles and Thelonious, an amateur boxer, music lover, and needs coffee to function.

It happens: You’re riding along and start to see the police lights behind you. You get pulled over and hit with a speeding ticket for going too fast. But the consequences extend beyond the one-time inconvenience of pulling over. Not only do you have to pay for the speeding ticket, but your car insurance premium may go up, too. 

Here’s what you should know about how long that speeding ticket will stay on your driving record.

How long does a speeding ticket stay on your record?

States don’t treat speeding tickets the same, and how long they might stay on your driving record varies. 

Here’s how long a speeding ticket might stay on your driving record by state and territory:

How a speeding ticket affects your driving record?

When you get a speeding ticket or have a moving violation, you’ll accumulate driver’s license points on your driving record. You don’t want these points. Having too many driver’s license points can lead to suspension for a brief period of time.

When you get a speeding ticket, the state department of motor vehicles may add points to your driving record. The number of points added will vary by state and how fast you were going. You’ll also want to check to see how long points stay on your driving record in your state. Fortunately, they don’t stay there forever.

How a speeding ticket will affect your car insurance premium?

When you get a speeding ticket, you have to pay the fine. You may also get points added to your license. While car insurance companies don’t typically use driver’s license points to calculate rates, your auto insurance premium may increase because of your infraction. Insurance companies usually have their own methodology to calculate the impacts of moving violations and other types of driving offenses. 

In some cases, you may be able to take a defensive driving course, which can help reduce the impact on your car insurance premium. Some car insurance companies may also have “ticket forgiveness” programs, which could help.

However, if you were speeding far above the speed limit, or if you’ve racked up a second or third speeding ticket in a short amount of time, you will likely see your car insurance rates go up. 

Your car insurance rates could stay high for three years but may go down if you maintain a clean driving record during that time.

You can attempt to contest the speeding ticket if you feel you are justified but know that it may be difficult. You may also have to pay administrative or court fees to contest your ticket.

Consider pay-per-mile insurance when comparing rates with a speeding ticket

If your car insurance rates do go up, you may want to shop around for a better rate. Insurance companies might consider the same speeding ticket differently when determining your premium.

If you don’t often drive, one way to keep your car insurance costs low is to consider pay-per-mile auto insurance. 

While you may have higher rates because of your infractions, pay-per-mile auto insurance can help you control costs, as you typically pay a monthly base rate to keep your insurance coverage and a per-mile rate of a few cents for each mile you drive.

The bottom line

Speeding is dangerous, and as a result, speeding tickets can be very consequential. In addition to the fine you’ll need to pay, the infraction can impact your driving record for several years. You could also pay more for auto insurance as a result.

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Melanie Lockert is a freelance writer, podcast host of the Mental Health and Wealth show, and author of Dear Debt. She’s a cat mom to two jazzy cats, Miles and Thelonious, an amateur boxer, music lover, and needs coffee to function.

If you’re a military service member, you have a unique set of considerations. You could be deployed, need to relocate frequently, or store your car when you’re away. We hear you and understand this can make managing your bills and insurance coverage tricky.

The good news is there are military car insurance options that may be a good fit for you. Here’s what military service members should know about auto insurance.

Who is considered a military service member?

Many auto insurance companies offer military discounts on car insurance or specialized military car insurance policies. 

Military service members may be able to take advantage of these savings. In some cases, insurance companies might extend any benefits, discounts, or eligibility to family members or former military service members, including veterans. 

To qualify for most military car insurance, you typically must have an affiliation with one of the following branches of the Armed Forces:

• Air Force
• Army
• Coast Guard
• Marine Corps
• Navy

If you work in or are affiliated with one of these branches, you likely qualify for military car insurance. Drivers who are affiliated with the National Guard, Space Force, reserves, or other areas of the U.S. Department of Defense may also be eligible.

Can you get a military discount car insurance option?

If you’re looking for military car insurance, you might have encountered higher-than-expected costs. 

Because military service members may not use their cars as much as other drivers, especially when deployed, military car insurance rates may sometimes be higher than other types of car insurance.

When looking for car insurance coverage, military service members should consider many options and see what insurance companies can offer a military discount for car insurance.

Consider pay-per-mile auto insurance as an alternative

Because you likely won’t be driving much, you may want to consider pay-per-mile auto insurance. 

Pay-per-mile auto insurance is a usage-based car insurance, which means your rate is primarily based on how you use your car. If you don’t drive long distances or often, you could save hundreds of dollars compared to traditional car insurance policies.

How much could Metromile save me on car insurance?

Metromile offers affordable auto insurance coverage.

Drivers pay a low monthly base rate each month to keep their car covered, even when they aren’t driving. Then, they pay a few cents for each mile they drive.

Drivers can save 47% a year on average when they switch to Metromile, according to a 2018 survey of new customers who saved with Metromile.Depending on how much you drive, you could stand to save even more. Savings of about $1,000 or more a year are not uncommon with Metromile’s pay-how-you-drive auto insurance:

5 reasons why pay-per-mile car insurance makes sense for military personnel

Searching for military car insurance can be a hassle, but it doesn’t have to be.

It’s possible to find a low auto insurance rate without sacrificing your coverage or experience. Here are five reasons why pay-per-mile auto insurance could make sense for military service members:

1. You pay for the miles you drive.

Military service members and their families are often on the go and might not use their cars for long periods of time. If your vehicle spends more time in your garage or storage than on the road, you don’t need to pay more than you have to for auto insurance.

Pay-per-mile car insurance helps keep your bill reasonable, as you’ll pay for what you actually use.

2. All miles over 250 per day are completely free.

Pay-per-mile auto insurance can help you avoid bill surprises.

At Metromile, all miles over 250 in a single day (150 miles per day in New Jersey) are free. This bonus can help you keep costs manageable, even if you decide to drive more than you ordinarily would.

3. You can personalize your coverage from a variety of limits and deductible options.

Pay-per-mile auto insurance offers the same types of coverage as traditional insurance, including liability protection, comprehensive coverage, collision coverage, medical payments coverage, personal injury protection, roadside assistance, and more.

You can also adjust the limits and deductibles to help protect your vehicle, finances, and wellbeing.

Metromile gives you the opportunity to choose the type of auto insurance that’s right for your lifestyle, which can come in handy for the military lifestyle.

4. The claims process is simple.

Filing an insurance claim can be stressful, which isn’t helpful after a car accident. The claims process can be easy, even if you have a pay-per-mile auto insurance policy.

Metromile, a leading pay-per-mile insurer in the U.S., makes it easy for you to file a claim. You can file a claim 24/7 on the phone or online on the Metromile website or app.

Drivers have access to our AI claims assistant AVA, which can help guide you through the claims process from submitting photos of any damage, collecting other information, and submitting a claim. Some claims can also be automated end-to-end, which means your claim could get resolved more quickly.

5. You can access important data.

Pay-per-mile auto insurance policyholders typically have access to their past driving and trip data for as long as they are customers.

Drivers who have pay-per-mile auto insurance coverage with Metromile can access smart driving features for free through the Metromile app.

Metromile customers can set up alerts to avoid parking or street-sweeping tickets in select U.S. cities, check on their car’s health, locate their car if it’s ever lost or stolen, and review their fuel use and past trips with the gas and trip planners.

The bottom line

Military service members deserve flexibility for their lifestyles, and pay-per-mile auto insurance can help provide the right coverage.

Pay-per-mile auto insurance can also provide a lower rate than military discounts on car insurance because drivers pay for how far they drive.

You can try Metromile to see if pay-per-mile auto insurance is right for you. Download the Metromile app from your favorite app store and take a free Ride Along™. 

You’ll drive for about two weeks as you typically would (you should keep your current insurance policy to keep coverage during the trial), and then Metromile will tell you how much you could save if you switch insurance companies. You can even earn an extra discount of up to 15% off your initial Metromile quote if you show you’re a safe driver during your Ride Along™ in select states.

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Melanie Lockert is a freelance writer, podcast host of the Mental Health and Wealth show, and author of Dear Debt. She’s a cat mom to two jazzy cats, Miles and Thelonious, an amateur boxer, music lover, and needs coffee to function.

Metromile aims to put people first. We’re focused on using data science, customer-centric design, and the latest technology to reimagine insurance and make it more affordable, equitable, and flexible.

Our data scientists, engineers, and technologists are obsessed with savings, service, and features that drivers will actually want to use — not buzzwords like disruption, innovation, or other “techie” branding.

For Khalal Walker, a senior software engineer, the realization he didn’t like coding all that much had a big impact on the start of his career. Khalal said he was halfway through his degree program at Jackson State University when the realization struck.

“I thought, ‘I’m going to find a job that has nothing to do with coding.’ I got my first role out of college as a software QA tester, testing code that developers wrote to make sure it matches requirements,” Khalal said. “After a few years of that, I didn’t feel challenged in the role. It was government work, and the iterations were a lot slower. I started looking somewhere else because I wanted to be on a team that was more agile, moved faster, and I came across Metromile.” 

That desire for a challenge was met in his role as a front-end engineer in Metromile’s quote and enroll platform. Anyone who’s seen a Metromile ad or found their way to getting an insurance quote has interacted with that platform. Khalal’s role is to make it easier to become a member of the Metromile community. He develops and tests changes to the platform to see how they impact the user experience and optimize the experience. 

“People say first impressions are everything, and this is the piece of software seen by pretty much everyone who has a policy with Metromile or even just checked us out. They’ve all touched this software,” Khalal said. “I think we play a big role in things… at larger companies, people don’t always feel like they’re affecting the bottom line of the company. But everyone sees this code; it’s very impactful. To have that amount of visibility within a company and outside it, it’s cool.”

But a career is made up of more than the tasks and projects that take up a day’s work. At Metromile, it’s the culture and the people who are just as important as the product and software itself.

“There are a lot of bright people at Metromile, and they’re so willing to answer questions, to share information,” Khalal said. “It’s probably one of the biggest things I enjoy, that work culture that encourages asking questions and gaining more information. Some companies are really competitive, where questions are seen as weak, or you’ll be passed over for promotion if you don’t know some piece of information.”

It was the company culture that brought Khalal back to Metromile recently. 

When a friend joined a startup that helps make it easier to donate stocks to nonprofits, Khalal saw it as his chance to “do some societal good.” But after three months, he knew it wasn’t the right fit.

“When I was contemplating leaving, I wasn’t applying anywhere else; I just wanted to go back to Metromile,” he said. “When you go to a smaller startup, funding, benefits, the people you work with, the working hours, they’re different.”

Khalal wanted the “different” he’d experienced at Metromile.

“All of us on the front-end team have a meeting every Friday that’s just 30 minutes, but it’s not about work; we just catch up. It’s a virtual happy hour; we just chat about life, how things are going,” he said. “I think those things are really important because we’re not robots, where the only conversations that we have are work-related. We’re still people. A company is made up of people first.”

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We’re building a community of drivers who come to Metromile for the savings and stay for the experience. Our diverse team combines the best of Silicon Valley technologists with veterans from Fortune 500 insurers and financial services giants focused on using technology to reinvent insurance as a tool for financial resiliency.

Check out open positions at Metromile or give our pay-per-mile auto insurance a try by taking a free Ride Along™ trial from the Metromile app.

You’ve heard about electric cars, and now you’re thinking of buying one. The only problem might be that you have a few questions. 

While electric cars might be cool or more popular nowadays, there can still be some confusion. We’ve gone ahead and answered the top 10 most common questions about electric cars.

1. When was the first electric car made?

While you might think electric vehicles are a modern phenomenon, electric cars are older than you think. 

The first electric vehicle was created as early as 1828. It wasn’t until the 1870s that electric vehicles became smaller scale, more usable, and practical.

2. How do electric cars work?

Electric vehicles, sometimes called battery electric vehicles, “have an electric motor instead of an internal combustion engine,” according to the U.S. Department of Energy. “The vehicle uses a large traction battery pack to power the electric motor and must be plugged into a wall outlet or charging equipment, also called electric vehicle supply equipment.” 

Electric cars don’t use liquid fuel, so there aren’t any fuel pumps, fuel lines, or fuel tanks. Because they run on electricity, they also don’t emit any car exhaust from their tailpipes.

3. Do electric cars use oil?

Electric cars don’t use oil. Instead, electric vehicles use electricity stored in a battery to run an electric motor.

Because electric vehicles operate differently from traditional cars, this also means they don’t require oil changes as a part of your car maintenance checklist.

4. Do electric cars have transmissions?

One of the major differences between conventional cars and electric vehicles is the transmission. Electric cars don’t have different speed transmissions. Instead, electric cars have just one single-speed transmission, which is part of the electric motor that runs the car.

5. How long does it take to charge an electric car?

Charge times for electric cars can vary based on different factors, such as the battery size and charging capacity. Cold weather and other environmental factors can also impact charging speed.

According to Kelley Blue Book, which used data from car manufacturers’ websites, electric vehicles can take as few as four hours to as long as 12 hours to max out its charge.

Here’s how long it might take for some common electric vehicles to charge fully:

6. How much does it cost to charge an electric car?

The cost to charge an electric vehicle depends on local electricity costs and whether you have to pay to use a charger. In California, electric vehicles might cost about $7 or more to fully charge. 

According to FuelEconomy.gov, there are sometimes free public chargers available, while other chargers may have a flat fee, a monthly subscription, or a per-use cost by time. 

You can also consider purchasing an at-home charger for your vehicle, which could cost between $400 to $1,000. You should also budget for any installation or set-up costs, such as fees, permits, or long-term maintenance.

7. How do I charge an electric car?

There are three main ways to charge an electric vehicle: 

1. Level 1 charger: This is a regular 120-volt outlet in your home and the slowest way to charge your car. Your car will likely come with a cord for you to use this type of charging at home. 
2. Level 2 charger: If you’re looking to charge your electric car outside of the home, it’ll likely be a 240-volt or 208-volt charger. Level 2 chargers can charge your electric vehicle more quickly. You can also install a Level 2 charger at home. 
3. Fast charger: Fast or rapid electric vehicle chargers, sometimes called DC fast charging or DC quick charging, is typically the fastest charge available. You could get up to 50 miles or more in range after about 20 minutes. Fast charging isn’t available for all electric cars, so be sure to check your car owner’s manual before you try to use a fast charger. 

You’ll want to check your owner’s manual to see which type of charger works with the make and model of your electric car.

8. How much are electric cars?

Electric vehicles vary in price by make, model, and year, with some costing as much as a traditional entry-level car.

Here are the typical starting costs of some common electric vehicles in the United States:

9. Are electric cars better for the environment?

Electric vehicles can be better for the environment because they can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Because they don’t use fossil fuels or gas to run an engine or motor, electric vehicles don’t produce any tailpipe emissions.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, “While charging the battery may increase pollution at the power plant, total emissions associated with driving electric vehicles are still typically less than those for gasoline cars—particularly if the electricity is generated from renewable energy sources like wind.”

10. Who makes electric car batteries?

As electric cars become more popular and commonplace, the need for electric car batteries has increased. There are now many electric car battery manufacturers. 

According to the U.S. International Trade Commission, many electric vehicle battery pack manufacturers are assembled in the United States. 

Some major electric car battery manufacturers include:

The bottom line

Electric vehicles aren’t just a trendy fad but are here to stay. They can be a more environmentally friendly way to drive compared to traditional cars.

If you drive an electric car or are thinking about purchasing an electric vehicle, chances are you don’t drive much or are actively looking to drive less. Pay-per-mile auto insurance can be a good fit for you and help you lower car insurance costs.

You can see if pay-per-mile car insurance is right for you with Metromile. Download the Metromile app and take a Ride Along™ trial for free. For about two weeks, you’ll drive like you typically do (you should keep your existing insurance policy to keep covered during the trial). After, you’ll see how much you could save if you switched to a usage-based insurance policy.
Drivers can also save up to an extra 15% off their initial Metromile auto insurance quote if they show they’re a safe driver during their Ride Along™ in select states.


Melanie Lockert is a freelance writer, podcast host of the Mental Health and Wealth show, and author of Dear Debt. She’s a cat mom to two jazzy cats, Miles and Thelonious, an amateur boxer, music lover, and needs coffee to function.

You get into your car, ready to head off to your next adventure. Instead of hitting the road, you’re greeted with the frustrating sound of your car not starting. 

It’s happened to many of us, sometimes more than once: Your car won’t start.
If you find yourself with a stalled vehicle, here are 10 of the most common reasons your car won’t start and what you could do to get back on the road.

1. Your car battery is dead.

One of the top reasons your car won’t start is because your car battery is dead. 

If your lights won’t come on or the battery light on your car dashboard shows there might be an issue, these are pretty good indications your car battery needs some more juice. Your car battery can run into problems if you leave your lights on overnight or if there’s a misplaced wire. If you think your car battery might be the issue, try jump-starting your car. If your vehicle remains stalled after you try a jump, you may need a new car battery.

2. The alternator is shot.

If your car ends up starting but continues to stall later, the battery may not be the problem. Instead, your car alternator may be shot. If you hear a high-pitched sound while trying to turn on the car, it could be the alternator. 
Unfortunately, if your car won’t start because of an alternator problem, you’ll need to chat with a car mechanic or other professional.

3. You have a faulty ignition switch.

If you’re trying to turn on your car but can’t seem to turn the keys to make it start, you may have a faulty ignition switch.

You can troubleshoot this issue by checking your headlights. If you can turn on your headlights, that’s a clue that you may not have a car battery issue, as the battery powers your light and dashboards. 

If the lights are on, but you can’t start the car, a faulty ignition switch could be the cause. Additionally, if your ignition button doesn’t work, your ignition might be the source of your concerns. 

If your ignition is faulty, you may want to consider heading to the mechanic to get it looked at and fixed.

4. You have a damaged starter.

Your car starter connects to your car battery to turn on the engine and ignition and gets you going on the road. Unfortunately, if you have a damaged starter, the whole process of starting your car is out of sync and won’t work easily.  

One telltale sign of a damaged starter is if you end up hearing clicking sounds as you attempt to turn on the car. 

If you have a damaged starter, you’ll want to take your vehicle to the mechanic and get it fixed.

5. Your fuel filter is blocked.

Your fuel filter could end up blocked or congested. When your fuel filter is blocked, the gasoline in your car won’t be able to make its way to the engine effectively. 

If that’s the case, look into getting a new fuel filter. Next, consider changing your fuel filter every 60,000 miles or so, as regular car maintenance can help prevent this from being an issue in the future. 

6. The gas tank is on E.

Another reason your car won’t start is if you have an empty gas tank. Your car needs fuel to power the engine and run and needs regular fill-ups.

You’ll typically know your gas tank is empty when you see the “E” button or indicator on your dashboard’s gas tank display. The good news is that this solution is easy: You can fill up at the closest gas station or get some fuel with roadside assistance.

7. You’re not in park gear.

If your car isn’t in park gear, it won’t start. Checking your gears can help you understand if you need to switch gears.

8. Your key fob no longer functions.

Many newer cars have push buttons where you simply press “start” to go on your way. Your vehicle starts after it receives a signal from your car key fob. If your system doesn’t get a signal, it won’t tell your vehicle to get started.

If you suspect your key fob is the issue, consider getting a new fob or fob battery. 

You may also want to see if there is a physical key option or another way that you can get the car started as a backup option.

9. Your distributor cap is broken.

The distributor cap in your car fuels the electricity to the spark plugs in your vehicle. Moisture on the distributor cap can be an issue. If the cap isn’t tight enough, it won’t send the signal. 

Make sure you wipe off any moisture from your cap and keep it tightly sealed. You can incorporate this routine into your regular car maintenance to help prevent any issues later.

10. You’re dealing with battery corrosion.

Battery corrosion occurs when there’s a mix of hydrogen released from the acid of the battery. This mixture can lead to corrosion or deterioration of your car battery. 

Take a look at your car battery to review its condition. Your battery may have corroded if you see different colors, such as white, green, or brown. 

Make sure your car battery is clean and put to work regularly. If battery corrosion is the issue, you can go to an automotive store to get products to help clean and fix your car battery.

The bottom line

It’s never a great time for your car to break down or stall. Fortunately, you can take some easy steps to diagnose the issue and whether you might need some more advanced or technical support at a car repair shop.

A good way to help make driving or being a car owner less stressful is to have the right auto insurance coverage for your lifestyle.

Metromile provides pay-how-you-drive auto insurance, which considers how you drive to set your rates. Roadside assistance coverage is available as an affordable add-on, which can help you get back on the road if your car won’t start or you have any other issues.

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Melanie Lockert is a freelance writer, podcast host of the Mental Health and Wealth show, and author of Dear Debt. She’s a cat mom to two jazzy cats, Miles and Thelonious, an amateur boxer, music lover, and needs coffee to function.