Mileage caps are the worst, especially if you actually want to enjoy your car. I get why they exist, but 1,000 miles a year? That’s like, two decent road trips and you’re done. The locked garage thing is just as nuts. Not everyone has a fortress at home, and if you’re out at a friend’s place or, like you said, camping, what are you supposed to do? Sleep in the car with a baseball bat?
Here’s what I did when I was shopping around: I made a list of all the “must-haves” (like, being able to park outside sometimes, not worrying about every extra mile) and just called up different agents. Some companies are way more flexible than others, but you have to be super clear about how you actually use the car. If they can’t work with reality, move on. Also, always get stuff in writing—agents will sometimes say “it’s fine” on the phone but that doesn’t mean squat if you ever need to file a claim.
It’s honestly kind of a hassle, but it beats getting burned later.
- Mileage caps are a joke if you actually want to drive the thing, not just stare at it in your garage. I get the risk for insurers, but 1,000 miles is barely enough for a weekend getaway and a couple of coffee runs.
- The locked garage rule cracks me up—like everyone’s got a Batcave at home. I park outside sometimes, sue me.
- I’ve found some companies will budge if you’re upfront about how you use the car, but yeah, always get it in writing. Had an agent “promise” me something once... didn’t end well when I needed proof.
- Honestly, half the fun of owning a vintage ride is actually driving it. If the policy makes you feel like you’re babysitting a museum piece, probably not worth it.
The locked garage rule cracks me up—like everyone’s got a Batcave at home. I park outside sometimes, sue me.
Yeah, the garage thing is a pain. Here’s the deal: insurers want to minimize risk, but not everyone’s got a fortress. If you’re parking outside, tell them upfront. Some will work with you, but expect to pay more. Never trust a “promise” unless it’s in the paperwork—verbal means nothing when it’s claim time. And about mileage caps, push for a higher limit if you actually drive the car. If they won’t budge, shop around. There are flexible policies out there, but you have to dig.
Couldn’t agree more about the Batcave thing. My ‘72 Nova’s lived outside for years—best I can do is a car cover and a steering wheel lock. Insurance folks always push for the “secure garage” discount, but that’s just not realistic for everyone, especially if you’re on a budget or renting. I once had an agent try to wiggle out of a claim because I’d parked at my sister’s overnight, not at “the insured address.” Learned real quick to get everything spelled out in writing, down to the zip code. It’s all about reading the fine print... and having patience.
I once had an agent try to wiggle out of a claim because I’d parked at my sister’s overnight, not at “the insured address.” Learned real quick to get everything spelled out in writing, down to the zip code.
That’s brutal. Insurance companies love their loopholes—sometimes I think they train agents to spot any excuse to deny a claim. I’ve had similar headaches with my old Mustang. One time, they tried to argue that “overnight” meant literally sunset to sunrise... as if I’m checking my watch every time I park. You’re right about the fine print. It’s a pain, but it’s the only way to protect yourself, especially when you don’t have a Batcave or even a garage. Hang in there—patience and a healthy sense of humor go a long way.
