Mileage caps always seemed kind of pointless to me too, honestly. I get the idea, but if I had a classic, I'd want to actually drive it, not just stare at it in the garage.
I keep wondering how strict insurers are about tracking those miles. Like, do they actually check odometers or is it more of an honor system? I’m looking at policies now and the cap seems like a hassle if you want to enjoy the car. Is there a big price jump for unlimited mileage?
Mileage caps can definitely feel restrictive, especially if you actually want to get out and enjoy your classic. Most insurers do rely on the honor system, but some will ask for odometer readings at renewal or after a claim. As for unlimited mileage, it really depends on the company—sometimes the price difference is pretty steep, other times not so much. If you’re planning to drive a lot, it’s worth comparing a few quotes. I’ve seen folks surprised by how flexible some policies can be if you ask.
Mileage caps are one of those things that sound good on paper, but in practice? They can be a pain, especially if you like to actually drive your classic instead of just staring at it in the garage. Here’s how I usually see it shake out:
- Most classic car policies are built around the idea that these cars aren’t daily drivers. That’s why the premiums are lower—less time on the road, less risk.
- The honor system is common, but yeah, if you file a claim or renew, some companies will want to see those odometer numbers. Not everyone checks, but when they do, it’s usually because something’s up.
- Unlimited mileage sounds great, but the price jump can be a shock. Sometimes it’s double, sometimes it’s barely more. Depends on the company and how much they think you’ll actually drive.
- If you’re only taking the car out for shows or Sunday cruises, the cap probably won’t matter. But if you’re planning a cross-country road trip or just want to use it more, it’s worth asking about flexibility. Some insurers will bump up the cap for a small fee if you ask nicely (or just seem really enthusiastic about your car).
- I’ve seen people get burned when they forget about the cap and rack up extra miles—usually not a huge deal unless there’s a claim, but it can get awkward fast. One guy I worked with had to explain why his “occasional use” Mustang had 8,000 miles in a year... let’s just say the conversation got interesting.
If you’re on the fence, I’d say figure out how much you *actually* drive the car in a year. If you’re nowhere near the cap, save your cash. But if you’re close—or just don’t want to stress about it—shop around. Some companies are surprisingly chill about mileage if you’re upfront about your plans. Just don’t try to sneak a daily commute past them... they’ve seen it all.
Had a guy with a ‘72 Chevelle who swore he’d never hit the cap—until he started taking it to every Cars & Coffee within 100 miles. When renewal time came, he was 2,000 miles over. The insurer didn’t drop him, but his rate definitely went up. It’s easy to underestimate how fast those miles add up when you’re actually enjoying the car. I always tell folks: be honest about your plans, because the odometer doesn’t lie.
Classic Car Insurance Mileage Caps: A Double-Edged Sword
That story hits close to home. I had a similar “never gonna happen to me” attitude when I first got my E-Type insured on a classic policy. Figured, how often am I really gonna drive it? Fast forward six months, and I’m making up errands just to take the long way—suddenly, I’m at the cap and sweating every mile. It’s like the car was taunting me: “Go on, just one more sunset drive. What’s the worst that could happen?”
You’re spot on about being honest with yourself (and your insurer). It’s so easy to underestimate how those miles sneak up, especially when you’re actually enjoying the car instead of just polishing it in the garage. I used to roll my eyes at the idea of tracking mileage, but now I keep a little log in the glovebox. Not because I’m paranoid, but because I know how quickly a few weekend trips can add up.
I get why people like the mileage cap policies—they’re cheaper, and if you really only take the car out for shows or the occasional Sunday cruise, it makes sense. But if you’re like me and you can’t resist taking the scenic route every time, it’s almost like setting yourself up for a guilt trip (and a rate hike). The odometer doesn’t care about your intentions.
Honestly, I’d rather pay a little more for peace of mind than stress every time I’m tempted by an empty back road. That said, for folks with iron willpower—or multiple cars to spread the love—it can work. Just don’t kid yourself. The cap isn’t a suggestion, and insurers aren’t exactly known for their flexibility when it comes to “just a few extra miles.”
At the end of the day, it’s your car and your call. But if you’re the type who can’t say no to a spontaneous drive, maybe budget for a few extra miles... or start practicing your self-control.
