Tip #1- If your credit history is not strong, start cleaning it up. If there is unusual credit activity on your account, wait about a month for it to return to normal before shopping for car insurance quotes.

Tip #2- Look up your car's relative risk online. If you're trying to keep your car insurance premiums low, it's best to consider this risk before you buy that high-risk sports car.

Tip #3- Pay your insurance premium in full ... "Fractional premium" fees are usually charged when you pay your annual premium in six-month, quarterly or monthly installments. There is almost always an administrative fee to break down these payments also. This can really add up.

OK, you've cleaned up your credit, chosen a low-risk car and have budgeted to pay your full car insurance premium up-front. Now you're ready to shop for your best car insurance quote!