Aviva Car Insurance Review Canada: Is It Worth It in 2025?
Our expert's review on Aviva
Aviva car insurance in Canada presents a highly structured and customizable offer, built upon mandatory provincial coverage complemented by an extensive suite of optional protections. Key financial aspects include liability limits up to $2,000,000 for ridesharing, a standard $300 deductible for specific property damage claims, and innovative features like a Disappearing Deductible and an Accident Rating Waiver.
Compared to generalist competitors, Aviva establishes itself as a specialist provider with robust, tailored solutions, particularly distinguishing itself with dedicated coverage for ridesharing and electric vehicles.
This makes Aviva car insurance especially well-suited for Lyft drivers, EV owners, and motorists who value comprehensive claim protection and the ability to personalize their policy extensively.
As a prominent insurer, Aviva provides operational reliability with 24/7 claims support, though it holds a 'B' rating from the Better Business Bureau, reflecting a mixed customer service experience.
- ✅Specialized ridesharing coverage for Lyft
- ✅Dedicated electric vehicle (EV) insurance
- ✅Extensive optional coverage choices
- ✅Accident forgiveness and conviction protection
- ✅24/7 claim service by phone or online
- ✅Disappearing deductible for claim-free drivers
- ✅Coverage for non-factory electronics up to $1,500
- ❌'B' rating from the Better Business Bureau
- ❌Not BBB accredited
- ❌High $1,000 deductible for rideshare claims
- ❌Rideshare coverage conditional on a personal policy
- ❌Limited built-in coverage for personal contents
Score- ✅Specialized ridesharing coverage for Lyft
- ✅Dedicated electric vehicle (EV) insurance
- ✅Extensive optional coverage choices
- ✅Accident forgiveness and conviction protection
- ✅24/7 claim service by phone or online
- ✅Disappearing deductible for claim-free drivers
- ✅Coverage for non-factory electronics up to $1,500
Our expert's review on Aviva
- ✅Specialized ridesharing coverage for Lyft
- ✅Dedicated electric vehicle (EV) insurance
- ✅Extensive optional coverage choices
- ✅Accident forgiveness and conviction protection
- ✅24/7 claim service by phone or online
- ✅Disappearing deductible for claim-free drivers
- ✅Coverage for non-factory electronics up to $1,500
- ❌'B' rating from the Better Business Bureau
- ❌Not BBB accredited
- ❌High $1,000 deductible for rideshare claims
- ❌Rideshare coverage conditional on a personal policy
- ❌Limited built-in coverage for personal contents
Score- ✅Specialized ridesharing coverage for Lyft
- ✅Dedicated electric vehicle (EV) insurance
- ✅Extensive optional coverage choices
- ✅Accident forgiveness and conviction protection
- ✅24/7 claim service by phone or online
- ✅Disappearing deductible for claim-free drivers
- ✅Coverage for non-factory electronics up to $1,500
Compared to generalist competitors, Aviva establishes itself as a specialist provider with robust, tailored solutions, particularly distinguishing itself with dedicated coverage for ridesharing and electric vehicles.
This makes Aviva car insurance especially well-suited for Lyft drivers, EV owners, and motorists who value comprehensive claim protection and the ability to personalize their policy extensively.
As a prominent insurer, Aviva provides operational reliability with 24/7 claims support, though it holds a 'B' rating from the Better Business Bureau, reflecting a mixed customer service experience.
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Aviva car insurance guarantees
Aviva offers comprehensive car insurance plans in Canada with mandatory protections such as third-party liability, accident benefits, uninsured motorist, and direct compensation-property damage (DC-PD) as required by Ontario law.
Optional coverages include Collision, Comprehensive, Specified Perils, and All Perils, allowing clients to tailor their protection with features like loss of use due to theft, rental vehicle coverage, ridesharing endorsement, Family Protection, and EV-specific benefits.
Standard deductibles, limits for property damage ($25,000), and specialized benefits for electronic equipment or transportation replacement are generally competitive with local offerings, though annual ceilings and some plan-specific details are not systematically communicated in public materials.
Riders such as conviction protector, disappearing deductible, accident rating waiver, and optional accident benefits extensions provide additional flexibility and driver protection.
Limitations apply to vehicle usage type, some drivers, certain property or mechanical damages, as well as in the context of criminal or high-risk activity.
| Warranty name | Standard Ontario Auto Policy | Optional Coverages (add-ons, à la carte) | Ridesharing (Lyft) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Formula positioning | Mandatory coverages per Ontario law | À la carte optional: Collision, Comprehensive, Specified Perils, All Perils, and others | Commercial policy for Lyft drivers in ON |
| Type of cover | Third-party liability, Accident Benefits, Uninsured motorist, DC-PD | Coverage for physical damage, enhanced liability, rental, etc. | Liability, collision/comprehensive (with conditions), Accident Benefits |
| Reimbursement rate (% of damages covered) | 100% up to policy limit, subject to fault and deductibles | Usually 100% subject to deductibles and limits | Up to policy limits, subject to deductible and period |
| Annual reimbursement ceiling (maximum amount reimbursed per year) | N.C. | N.C. | N.C. |
| Policy excess (per claim and/or annually) | $300 (uninsured property); DC-PD subject to chosen deductible | Deductible typically $500–$1,000, customizable | $1,000 for collision/comprehensive |
| Waiting period (before certain guarantees take effect) | None for mandatory; 72h on theft vehicle rental | Some benefits start 72h after a theft (loss of use) | N.C. |
| Minimum/maximum age for subscription | N.C. | N.C. | N.C. |
| Prior risk assessment (medical questionnaire, telematics, driving history) | Driving history required; telematics (optional for discounts) | Required for some add-ons (telematics/driving) | Driving record applies |
| Payment facilities (monthly, quarterly, annual payments) | Monthly, annual available | Same as standard policy | N.C. |
| Advance payment of claim-related costs | Not communicated | N.C. | N.C. |
| Compensation at purchase value/agreed value/replacement value | Actual cash value, exceptions by endorsement | Some endorsements may offer replacement cost | N.C. |
| Third-party liability (bodily injury and property damage to others) | Up to $1M or higher, per policyholder choice | Can increase limit above minimum | Lyft: $1M pre-accept, $2M post-accept period |
| Own vehicle damage (collision, regardless of fault) | ❌ without optional cover | ✅ Collision coverage add-on | ✅, $1,000 deductible if personal policy active |
| Theft of vehicle (partial or total) | ❌ without optional cover | ✅ Comprehensive, Specified Perils, All Perils | ✅, $1,000 deductible if personal policy active |
| Fire (accidental or criminal) | ❌ without optional cover | ✅ Comprehensive, Specified Perils, All Perils | ✅, $1,000 deductible if personal policy active |
| Broken glass (windscreen, windows, sunroof) | ❌ without optional cover | ✅ Comprehensive, All Perils | ✅, $1,000 deductible if personal policy active |
| Natural disasters (hail, flood, storm, etc.) | ❌ without optional cover | ✅ Specified Perils, Comprehensive, All Perils | ✅, $1,000 deductible if personal policy active |
| Acts of vandalism | ❌ without optional cover | ✅ Comprehensive, All Perils | ✅, $1,000 deductible if personal policy active |
| All-risks damage (accidents of any cause, including at-fault) | ❌ without optional cover | ✅ All Perils | ✅, $1,000 deductible (personal policy required) |
| Driver personal injury cover (death, disability, medical expenses) | Accident Benefits—standard, mandatory | Optional increases to limits/benefits | Included per policy period |
| Passenger injury cover | ✅ Accident Benefits | Optional increases to limits | Included per policy period |
| Criminal defence and recourse (basic legal aid after an accident) | Included within liability section, up to reasonable expenses | N.C. | N.C. |
| Vehicle accessories and modifications (including electric vehicle batteries and cables) | OEM equipment included; EV towing/charge for Aviva policies | Up to $1,500 for non-OEM electronics | N.C. |
| Personal belongings inside the vehicle (excluding cash and documents) | Up to $25 for recorded media, else N.C. | Additional: N.C. | N.C. |
| Replacement vehicle (during repairs or after total loss) | Theft: up to $900 after 72h (if covered) | Option for broader replacement rental add-on | N.C. |
| Towing and roadside assistance (including out-of-charge recovery for EVs) | Post-accident, reasonable expenses covered; EVs: free out-of-charge towing | Broader roadside assist: N.C. | N.C. |
| Use abroad (compliance with minimum local cover; optional full cover abroad) | Meets legal minimum in other Canadian provinces/territories | International/USA coverage: N.C. | N.C. |
| Vehicle use for professional/business purposes (where applicable) | Business use by endorsement (e.g., ridesharing) | Available by endorsement | Lyft-specific coverage |
| Driving other vehicles (third-party only or comprehensive, depending on the insurer) | Third-party liability may extend for non-owned vehicle with permission | Physical damage N.C. | N.C. |
| Trailer or caravan towing cover | N.C. | N.C. | N.C. |
Aviva Policy Features and Services
Aviva provides 24/7 claims service by phone and online, and offers support for digital claims submission and tracking. Some features, such as conviction protection and accident rating waiver, help protect premiums from minor offences or a first at-fault accident. Customers with electric vehicles can benefit from specialized towing service and EV loss subsidies. Coverage for ridesharing activities, like with Lyft, is integrated as a commercial policy during active driving periods but requires maintaining personal coverage for comprehensive protection. Paperless management and a national assistance network are available for policyholders.
Aviva Car insurance exclusions
Aviva car insurance policies systematically exclude coverage for incidents involving carrying explosives, radioactive material, or for using the vehicle as a taxi, bus, or to carry paying passengers unless a ridesharing endorsement is in place.
Losses are denied when the vehicle is operated without the owner’s consent, rented, leased to others, or driven by a specifically excluded driver, as well as when operated by a garage business during its commercial activities.
Damage resulting from war, radioactive contamination, or illegal activity such as racing is also not covered, and claims are void when the driver is unlicensed or under the influence.
Notably, Aviva excludes losses caused by theft by household members unless All Perils is selected, and limits indemnity for theft by someone in legal possession under an agreement, which is more restrictive than some market competitors.
| Exclusions | Details |
|---|---|
| Exclusions linked to the use of the vehicle | Use to carry explosives or radioactive materialUse as a taxi, bus, or to carry paying passengers (unless ridesharing endorsement active)Vehicle rented or leased to another personUse by a garage business (sale, repair, storage, or parking) as part of its business |
| Exclusions linked to the driver | Use without the owner's consentOperation by a specifically excluded driverOperation by a person not authorized by law (unlicensed driver)Driver under the influence of intoxicating substancesDriver convicted of specified serious Criminal Code offences |
| Technical exclusions | Damage to tires, or mechanical breakdown, rust, corrosion, or wear and tear (except if resulting from a covered peril)Damage caused by radioactive contamination |
| Geographical exclusions | Loss or damage caused by war, civil unrest, invasion, or bombardment (except liability coverage) |
| Contractual exclusions | Theft by household member or employee (unless All Perils is selected)Theft by someone in lawful possession (lease, mortgage)Fraud or failure to disclose material facts (N.C.) |
| Other notable exclusions | Loss or damage to vehicle contents except up to $25 for recorded mediaUse for racing, speed tests, or other illegal activities |
*N.C. = Not communicated. Refer to official Aviva documentation for complete details.*
The cost of Aviva car insurance
Aviva maintains a mid-range price position in the Canadian car insurance market, offering solid core coverages and a wide selection of add-ons that allow for tailored protection according to individual needs.
While not a pure digital player, Aviva balances traditional broker advice with increasing online self-serve capabilities, which helps control distribution costs but doesn't reach the lowest premiums available from direct digital competitors.
Coverage generosity, particularly for optional liability and accident benefits, gives added peace of mind, but deductibles and coverage limits are generally comparable to those found at peers like Intact or Travelers.
Pricing can climb for comprehensive or enhanced options, especially when extended rental, waivers, or family protection endorsements are included, which can move Aviva’s overall spend higher for demanding profiles.
Overall, Aviva is best described as occupying a mid-range position, appealing equally to those who want flexibility and thoroughness without the highest premiums typical of ultra-comprehensive carriers.
| Essential plan | Standard plan | Comprehensive plan | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Young driver (18-24, compact vehicle) | $123/month | $139/month | $159/month |
| Standard driver (35-45, intermediate vehicle) | $83/month | $97/month | $115/month |
| Senior driver (60-70, city car) | $67/month | $78/month | $93/month |
| Driver with an at-fault claim (last 3 years) | $162/month | $186/month | $221/month |
| New SUV driver | $102/month | $119/month | $141/month |
| Driver with more than 25,000km/year | $127/month | $144/month | $168/month |
To secure the most fitting price for your driver profile, be sure to compare Aviva’s quotes side by side with other leading providers:
Compare the best car insurance plans for free!Start comparingAviva Car Insurance Discount Codes
| Promotional codes Aviva | Details |
|---|---|
| HelloSafe | -5% on your quote |
Note: promotional codes are subject to change. For the latest promotional codes, go to our comparison of the best car insurance.
Your reimbursement with Aviva
| Claim or service example | Average cost (CAD) | Third Party Liability & Standard Accident Benefits | Comprehensive / Collision / All Perils Coverage (highest ceiling) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Replacement of vehicle after theft | $25,000 | ❌ | Up to actual cash value (minus deductible); out-of-pocket: deductible only |
| Repair after an at-fault accident | $8,000 | ❌ | Up to actual cash value (minus deductible); out-of-pocket: deductible only |
| Windshield replacement (stone impact, vandalism) | $600 | ❌ | Up to actual cash value (minus deductible); out-of-pocket: deductible only |
| Rental car after theft (loss of use benefit max.) | $900 | ❌ | Up to $900 (per theft occurrence; minus deductible); out-of-pocket: amount above $900 or excluded if other event |
| Towing after covered roadside accident | $250 | ❌ | Reasonable cost to nearest repair facility (minus deductible); out-of-pocket: anything above "reasonable" cost or excluded events |
Aviva car insurance assistance
Aviva’s car insurance assistance in Canada covers towing after an insured loss, which is a helpful feature if your car needs to be protected or removed to prevent further damage.
Free towing for electric vehicles when the battery runs out on the road is a rare and valuable offer, especially as EV numbers grow.
Policyholders benefit from up to $900 for a rental car if the vehicle is stolen, although this is not automatically provided for breakdowns—separate coverage for transportation replacement is optional.
There is no evidence of 24/7 breakdown assistance, travel continuation, or hotel accommodation after immobilization, which can be critical in emergencies.
Assistance abroad, animal support, and key recovery services are not mentioned or included in standard Aviva car insurance contracts.
| Support Aviva | Availability | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 24/7 roadside breakdown assistance | ❌ | N.C. |
| Towing to repair facility / Extended towing | ✅ | Towing costs are covered after an insured loss. Reasonable expenses to prevent further damage included. |
| Assistance from home (0 km) | ❌ | N.C. |
| Replacement vehicle | ✅ | Up to $900 for a rental car after theft with All Perils, Comprehensive, or Specified Perils. Optional coverage for rentals in other cases. |
| Alternative transport or accommodation | ❌ | N.C. |
| Vehicle repatriation | ❌ | N.C. |
| Assistance abroad | ❌ | N.C. |
| Assistance for electric vehicles | ✅ | Free towing if battery is depleted on the road. |
| Battery assistance & fuel misfuelling | ❌ | N.C. |
| Legal assistance after an accident | ❌ | N.C. |
| Assistance for animals on board | ❌ | N.C. |
| Key recovery & lock replacement | ❌ | N.C. |
Reasonable expenses to prevent further damage included.
Optional coverage for rentals in other cases.
Customer feedback on Aviva car insurance
| Review site | Rating and number of reviews |
|---|---|
| Trustpilot | 1.3 out of 5 (17,768 reviews) |
- ✅ A number of customers mention that they found the online quoting process straightforward and were able to purchase coverage quickly.
- ✅ Some policyholders say their premiums were competitive, especially when bundling home and car insurance with Aviva.
- ✅ A few reviewers praise individual agents or customer service reps for being helpful and courteous during simple policy changes.
- ❌ A significant portion of reviewers report frustrating delays or disputes in claims resolution, often citing slow processing and unsatisfactory settlements.
- ❌ Many customers criticize Aviva for dramatic increases in premiums at renewal, even for clients with a clean driving record or no claims.
- ❌ Several mention difficulty in reaching support, long hold times, or unreturned calls and emails, especially during claims or emergencies.
- ❌ A number of complaints focus on lack of transparency regarding policy terms, insufficient explanations for denied claims, and confusion around deductibles.
- ❌ Some clients felt their policies were cancelled or not renewed for unclear reasons, with little warning or recourse.
How to contact Aviva
| Customer service Aviva | Contact information |
|---|---|
| To obtain a quote or take out a policy online | You can use the HelloSafe car insurance comparison tool, choose the option that suits you best and click to obtain a quote. For direct Aviva quotes: online, call 1-800-387-4518 (Mon–Fri, 8am–8pm ET), or visit your local Aviva broker. Headquarters: Suite 100 - 10 Aviva Way, Markham, ON L6G 0G1. |
| To report a claim | File 24/7 by calling 1-866-692-8482, submit online at https://www.aviva.ca or mail written notice to Suite 100 - 10 Aviva Way, Markham, ON L6G 0G1. |
| To request and track a refund | Call 1-800-387-4518 or your Aviva broker; provide your policy details, a written refund request, and copies of supporting documents (proof of payment, policy cancellation confirmation if applicable). Refunds are typically processed by electronic transfer or cheque within 10–15 business days after approval. |
| To obtain an insurance certificate | Contact your Aviva broker or call 1-800-387-4518 to request a certificate. Certificates can be emailed, mailed, or accessed via your broker’s online platform. Headquarters: Suite 100 - 10 Aviva Way, Markham, ON L6G 0G1. |
| To contact assistance | For roadside or claims assistance, call 1-866-692-8482 (24/7); for general help, call 1-800-387-4518 (Mon–Fri, 8am–8pm ET). Email via the Aviva website contact form or visit Suite 100 - 10 Aviva Way, Markham, ON L6G 0G1. |
| To cancel my contract | Contact your Aviva broker or call 1-800-387-4518; give at least 15–30 days’ notice, provide your policy number, a signed cancellation request, and proof of alternate coverage if required. Written notice may be mailed to Suite 100 - 10 Aviva Way, Markham, ON L6G 0G1. Refunds processed after finalization, average wait 10–15 business days. |
FAQ
Do I have to pay in advance for repairs or assistance with Aviva?
If you use an Aviva-approved repair facility or towing partner, payment is typically handled directly between Aviva and the provider; you are only responsible for paying your deductible. For non-approved providers, you may need to pay upfront and later request reimbursement subject to claim approval.
How do I cancel my car insurance contract with Aviva?
To cancel your Aviva car insurance, contact your broker or call 1-800-387-4518, provide your policy details, give at least 15–30 days’ notice, and submit a signed cancellation request; proof of new coverage may be required if applicable.
What are the main coverages and optional protections offered by Aviva?
Aviva provides mandatory coverages such as liability, accident benefits, uninsured automobile, and direct compensation-property damage, plus optional add-ons like collision, comprehensive, specified perils, all perils, increased liability, rental car coverage, family protection, conviction protector, and more to tailor your coverage.
How do I report a claim with Aviva and what is the typical process?
You can report a claim 24/7 by calling 1-866-692-8482 or online through the Aviva website. Provide your policy number and details of the incident; a claims adjuster will guide you through the assessment and repair process. Payment is usually made directly to the repair shop or you, less your deductible.
Are roadside assistance and rental vehicles covered under Aviva policies?
Roadside assistance, including towing and emergency services, is available as a standard or optional feature, particularly for electric vehicles. Rental vehicle costs are covered up to specific limits if your car is stolen or under repair following a covered claim, as long as you have the appropriate coverage.
What discounts or premium savings can I access with Aviva car insurance?
You may earn discounts with Aviva for bundling policies, maintaining a clean driving record, insuring multiple vehicles, using winter tires, or having theft-prevention devices installed. Ask your Aviva representative about available discounts based on your profile and additional qualifying criteria.
Do I have to pay in advance for repairs or assistance with Aviva?
If you use an Aviva-approved repair facility or towing partner, payment is typically handled directly between Aviva and the provider; you are only responsible for paying your deductible. For non-approved providers, you may need to pay upfront and later request reimbursement subject to claim approval.
How do I cancel my car insurance contract with Aviva?
To cancel your Aviva car insurance, contact your broker or call 1-800-387-4518, provide your policy details, give at least 15–30 days’ notice, and submit a signed cancellation request; proof of new coverage may be required if applicable.
What are the main coverages and optional protections offered by Aviva?
Aviva provides mandatory coverages such as liability, accident benefits, uninsured automobile, and direct compensation-property damage, plus optional add-ons like collision, comprehensive, specified perils, all perils, increased liability, rental car coverage, family protection, conviction protector, and more to tailor your coverage.
How do I report a claim with Aviva and what is the typical process?
You can report a claim 24/7 by calling 1-866-692-8482 or online through the Aviva website. Provide your policy number and details of the incident; a claims adjuster will guide you through the assessment and repair process. Payment is usually made directly to the repair shop or you, less your deductible.
Are roadside assistance and rental vehicles covered under Aviva policies?
Roadside assistance, including towing and emergency services, is available as a standard or optional feature, particularly for electric vehicles. Rental vehicle costs are covered up to specific limits if your car is stolen or under repair following a covered claim, as long as you have the appropriate coverage.
What discounts or premium savings can I access with Aviva car insurance?
You may earn discounts with Aviva for bundling policies, maintaining a clean driving record, insuring multiple vehicles, using winter tires, or having theft-prevention devices installed. Ask your Aviva representative about available discounts based on your profile and additional qualifying criteria.
