Compare and purchase the best car insurance rates in Ontario.

Auto insurance rates in Ontario are influenced by a combination of regulatory oversight and insurer-specific data. Individual insurance companies calculate your premium based on several key factors: 

• Insurance industry data: This includes claims volume in your area, local fraud rates, and repair costs — all of which impact overall risk and pricing.
• Your driving history: Insurers review your past 6+ years of claims and 3+ years of traffic violations to assess risk.
• Your coverage level: Ontario drivers can choose from several levels of coverage:
  • Third-party liability (mandatory minimum)
  • Liability + collision + comprehensive (full coverage)
  • Liability + collision OR comprehensive (mid-tier option) 

If you’re leasing or financing a vehicle, full coverage is typically required as part of your agreement.

The best way to secure a great rate on car insurance in Ontario is to compare quotes from multiple providers and take advantage of available discounts. Surex makes this easy by partnering with top Ontario insurance providers like Aviva, Intact, Economical, Travelers, Wawanesa, and more, so you can compare coverage in one place.  

To help you save on car insurance in Ontario, check if you qualify for these common discounts:  

• Home and auto bundle discount: Bundling your car insurance with your home insurance often results in a discount from many insurance companies. While this varies by provider, often times you can save anywhere from 5% to 15% by bundling your policies.  

• Claims-free discount: Do you have no at-fault claims for a number of years? Depending on the length of time, you could save up to 10%. 

• Conviction-free discount: No traffic violations, such as speeding or running a red light, for 3+ years could earn you up to 10% off. 

Auto insurance rates in Ontario are based on a variety of personal, geographic, and policy-related factors. Here’s what insurers consider: 

• Driving history: Fewer at-fault claims and traffic violations usually result in better rates.
• Payment history: Consistent on-time insurance payments can influence eligibility and pricing.
• Where you live: Areas with higher claim volumes (like busy cities) typically have higher premiums.
• Type of coverage:
  • Third-party liability (minimum legal requirement)
  • Liability + collision + comprehensive (full coverage)
  • Liability + collision OR comprehensive (mid-tier option)
• Policy options: Add-ons like accident forgiveness, rental coverage, and towing can impact your premium. Removing optional coverage like glass or hail protection may reduce costs.
• Deductible amount: Higher deductibles usually lower your premium. Common deductible amounts in Ontario are $250, $500, or $1,000.
• Leased or financed vehicle: Most lenders require full coverage until the vehicle is fully paid off.
• Available discounts: Bundling, clean driving history, good credit, and more can help lower your rate. A Surex advisor can help identify all the discounts you qualify for. 

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, as car insurance rates in Ontario vary widely depending on your personal profile. Factors like your coverage level, driving history, and where you live all play a role. The best way to find your rate is to compare quotes based on your specific needs. 

Yes! You can get same-day car insurance in Ontario through Surex. 

Our online platform lets you compare multiple quotes in minutes, review transparent pricing, and work with a dedicated insurance advisor to confirm the best option for you. Once you sign your documents electronically, you’ll receive instant proof of insurance while your official pink cards are on the way.  

Winter tires aren’t legally required in Ontario, but they’re strongly recommended for safer driving during cold and snowy months. 

Many insurers, including most of Surex’s partners, offer a 2% to 5% discount on your annual premium if your vehicle is equipped with winter tires between November 1 and April 1. You’ll need to provide proof of purchase or installation to qualify. 

Yes, many insurers in Canada offer monthly or quarterly payment options for car insurance, especially if you have a good credit score and a strong payment history.  

However, if you’ve missed payments in the past, some insurers may require you to pay the full premium upfront or limit your installment options. A Surex advisor can help you find a payment plan that works for your situation. 

The cheapest cars to insure in Ontario are ones that are safe, practical, and inexpensive to repair. Think compact sedans and hatchbacks with strong safety ratings and low theft risk.  

But no matter what you drive, the best way to lower your premium as a first-time driver is by completing a certified driver’s training course. In Ontario and many other provinces, this can boost your driver star rating — essentially giving you credit for up to two years of clean driving, which helps reduce your rate. 

Yes, some insurers in Ontario offer telematics-based discounts. These programs use a mobile app or plug-in device to track your driving habits and reward safe behaviour. 

Surex partners with insurers like Intact and Pembridge, both of which offer telematics programs that can save you 5–10% upfront, with the potential for larger discounts after a year of safe driving.  

Speak with your Surex advisor to learn if you’re eligible for a telematics discount.

Yes, you can switch car insurance providers mid-term in Ontario, before your renewal date. However, it’s important to know that most insurers charge a cancellation fee if you end your policy early. The amount can vary depending on your insurance provider and how much time is left in your term. 

Before making the switch, compare your potential savings to any cancellation costs to determine if it’s worth it. A Surex advisor can help you compare quotes from top insurers across Ontario to make sure you’re getting the best possible rate for your coverage.