I've had a similar experience, actually. My driving record isn't terrible, but I commute daily into Queens, so I've had my share of close calls and minor scrapes. Geico was decent price-wise at first, but the second I mentioned even minor cosmetic stuff—like swapping wheels—they started acting like I was building a race car or something. Premium went up noticeably, and it felt like they were just waiting for me to slip up again.
Switched to Progressive about a year ago, and they've been way more chill about mods. Told them about my aftermarket wheels and intake, and they didn't even seem phased. Plus, when I got a speeding ticket last summer (yeah, happens to the best of us...), the rate increase wasn't nearly as harsh as Geico's had been previously.
But like you said, location matters big-time. My cousin lives out on Long Island and swears Geico is cheaper for him, even with his modded GTI. Definitely worth running quotes from both companies based on your exact zip code. Insurance in NY is weirdly unpredictable sometimes...
Currently shopping around myself, first-time buyer here, and honestly finding it pretty frustrating. A few things I've noticed so far:
- Geico initially gave me the lowest quote, but after reading your experience, I'm a bit skeptical about how they'll handle minor issues or mods down the line. I don't have anything crazy planned, but who knows... might want to swap wheels eventually.
- Progressive seemed higher at first glance, but if they're more relaxed about small mods and minor tickets like you mentioned, maybe it's worth the extra upfront cost?
"Insurance in NY is weirdly unpredictable sometimes..."
Yeah, totally feeling this. Ran quotes for my zip in Brooklyn and then tried my friend's address in Westchester out of curiosity—huge difference. Makes me wonder how much location alone is skewing these comparisons.
Guess I'll keep digging around and maybe call them directly to clarify some details. Thanks for sharing your experiences though, helps put things into perspective.
- Had Progressive in Queens for a while, never had issues with minor mods (intake, wheels).
- Geico was cheaper initially but got picky fast once I mentioned aftermarket parts.
- Curious if anyone's tried State Farm around here? Heard mixed things...
Had State Farm for a bit when we moved to Brooklyn—honestly, they weren't bad, but they did seem a little confused by my super exciting "family sedan" mods (aka roof rack and window tints, lol). Progressive sounds chill though, might be worth sticking with them.
I'm in a similar boat—first time buying insurance here and trying to keep it budget-friendly. My cousin had Geico in Queens, and they handled his little fender bender pretty smoothly, no headaches or surprise charges. Progressive seems chill too, but I've heard their rates can sneak up after the first renewal... something to watch out for maybe? Honestly, I'm leaning Geico just because my wallet already cries enough living in NY, lol.
