Definity Car Insurance Canada: Our 2025 Review & Verdict
Our expert's review on Definity
In my analysis, Definity car insurance presents a compelling dual strategy for the Canadian market through its Sonnet and Economical brands. I find this approach effective, offering a choice between Sonnet’s all-digital platform and Economical’s traditional broker network. Sonnet's plans feature optional Collision and Comprehensive covers with adjustable deductibles, typically $500 to $1,000, and a notable prevention incentive through its Sonnet Shift program, which can cut premiums by up to 35% for safe driving.
Positioned uniquely in the market, Definity's structure allows it to compete on two fronts: its digital arm, Sonnet, offers competitive, data-driven pricing, while Economical provides the personalized service many still value. Definity is therefore particularly suitable for tech-savvy drivers seeking usage-based savings with Sonnet, as well as for individuals preferring the dedicated support of a broker for more complex needs via Economical.
From a reliability standpoint, Definity is a major Canadian insurer, and I've noted its direct brand, Sonnet, earns an excellent 5/5 rating on Trustpilot. The claims process is robust, supported by 24/7 online submission and a team of over 600 claims professionals who ensure prompt handling.
- ✅Dual model: direct digital or broker service.
- ✅Significant usage-based savings up to 35%.
- ✅Seamless online quoting and policy management.
- ✅Excellent 5/5 Trustpilot rating for Sonnet.
- ✅24/7 online and phone claims service.
- ✅Extensive group and multi-vehicle discounts.
- ✅Broad vehicle coverage via Economical brand.
- ❌No personal insurance for ridesharing drivers.
- ❌Limited roadside assistance reimbursement ($50).
- ❌Some coverage bundles are province-specific.
- ❌No explicit coverage for personal belongings.
- ❌Broker-dependent pricing for Economical brand.
Score- ✅Dual model: direct digital or broker service.
- ✅Significant usage-based savings up to 35%.
- ✅Seamless online quoting and policy management.
- ✅Excellent 5/5 Trustpilot rating for Sonnet.
- ✅24/7 online and phone claims service.
- ✅Extensive group and multi-vehicle discounts.
- ✅Broad vehicle coverage via Economical brand.
Our expert's review on Definity
- ✅Dual model: direct digital or broker service.
- ✅Significant usage-based savings up to 35%.
- ✅Seamless online quoting and policy management.
- ✅Excellent 5/5 Trustpilot rating for Sonnet.
- ✅24/7 online and phone claims service.
- ✅Extensive group and multi-vehicle discounts.
- ✅Broad vehicle coverage via Economical brand.
- ❌No personal insurance for ridesharing drivers.
- ❌Limited roadside assistance reimbursement ($50).
- ❌Some coverage bundles are province-specific.
- ❌No explicit coverage for personal belongings.
- ❌Broker-dependent pricing for Economical brand.
Score- ✅Dual model: direct digital or broker service.
- ✅Significant usage-based savings up to 35%.
- ✅Seamless online quoting and policy management.
- ✅Excellent 5/5 Trustpilot rating for Sonnet.
- ✅24/7 online and phone claims service.
- ✅Extensive group and multi-vehicle discounts.
- ✅Broad vehicle coverage via Economical brand.
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The Definity car insurance guarantees
Definity offers customers a choice between digital-first and broker-driven car insurance plans through its Sonnet and Economical brands, delivering both mandatory coverage and a range of optional benefits tailored to Canadian standards.
Sonnet provides legal liability, accident benefits, and optional modules like collision, comprehensive, accident forgiveness, loss of use, and usage-based discounts, with fully digital policy management and coverage limits reflecting provincial minimums and user-selected deductibles usually in the $500–$1,000 range.
Economical emphasizes traditional coverage with legal fees, accident damage, theft, rental car, and windshield protection, distributed through brokers and complemented by various discounts for safe driving, anti-theft, and group affiliations.
Both plans exclude business or commercial vehicle use and some car and home bundled services depend on the policyholder's province, but notable advantages include 24/7 claims, flexible online or broker service, and innovative features such as Sonnet Shift and fast digital processes.
Compared to local market standards, Definity stands out for its flexibility in digital management and telematics-based discounting, while meeting core coverage expectations for Canadian auto insurance.
| Warranty name | Sonnet (Digital plan) | Economical (Broker plan) |
|---|---|---|
| Formula positioning | Digital-first, instant quoting and self-service. | Broker-distributed, traditional service. |
| Type of cover | Third-party liability, accident benefits, collision, comprehensive, add-ons. | Third-party liability, accident damage, theft/vandalism, glass, rental. |
| Reimbursement rate (% of damages covered) | Up to policy limit, subject to deductible and policy options. | Up to policy limit, subject to deductible and policy options. |
| Annual reimbursement ceiling (maximum amount reimbursed per year) | Per incident/provincial law; higher limits available. | Per incident/provincial law; higher limits available. |
| Policy excess (per claim and/or annually) | User-selected: typically $500–$1,000 per claim. | User-selected: typically $500–$1,000 per claim. |
| Waiting period (before certain guarantees take effect) | NC | NC |
| Minimum/maximum age for subscription | NC | NC |
| Prior risk assessment (medical questionnaire, telematics, driving history) | No medical; driving history and telematics (optional, for Sonnet Shift) considered. | No medical; driving history and claim record considered. |
| Payment facilities (monthly, quarterly, annual payments) | Monthly via online account or credit card; annual available. | Monthly or annual via broker; payment plans may differ. |
| Advance payment of claim-related costs | Direct reimbursement or direct to vendor where possible. | Direct reimbursement, often arranged via broker. |
| Compensation at purchase value/agreed value/replacement value | Replacement value if new/used vehicle replacement selected (bundle required for some). | Replacement value available for new vehicles; terms may vary. |
| Third-party liability (bodily injury and property damage to others) | ✅ Required by law, provincial minimums set at policy start. | ✅ Required by law, provincial minimums set at policy start. |
| Own vehicle damage (collision, regardless of fault) | ✅ Optional with selection of collision coverage and deductible. | ✅ Optional with selection of collision coverage and deductible. |
| Theft of vehicle (partial or total) | ✅ Optional under comprehensive coverage. | ✅ Optional under comprehensive coverage. |
| Fire (accidental or criminal) | ✅ Covered under comprehensive coverage. | ✅ Covered under comprehensive coverage. |
| Broken glass (windscreen, windows, sunroof) | ✅ Covered under comprehensive or standalone glass. Deductible may apply. | ✅ Covered under comprehensive or standalone glass. Deductible may apply. |
| Natural disasters (hail, flood, storm, etc.) | ✅ Included in comprehensive coverage. | ✅ Included in comprehensive coverage. |
| Acts of vandalism | ✅ Under comprehensive coverage. | ✅ Under comprehensive coverage. |
| All-risks damage (accidents of any cause, including at-fault) | ✅ Only if both collision and comprehensive chosen. | ✅ Only if both collision and comprehensive chosen. |
| Driver personal injury cover (death, disability, medical expenses) | ✅ Accident benefits included (except NL), subject to statutory limits. | ✅ Accident benefits included, statutory limits. |
| Passenger injury cover | ✅ Via accident benefits (except in NL). | ✅ Via accident benefits, statutory. |
| Criminal defence and recourse (basic legal aid after an accident) | NC | ✅ Legal fees if sued after accident; policy limits apply. |
| Extended legal protection (for disputes beyond accidents) | NC | NC |
| Vehicle accessories and modifications (including electric vehicle batteries and cables) | NC | NC |
| Personal belongings inside the vehicle (excluding cash and documents) | NC | NC |
| Child equipment (seats, pushchairs) | NC | NC |
| Replacement vehicle (during repairs or after total loss) | ✅ Optional Loss of Use or Enhanced Protection Bundle; max 30 days per occurrence. | ✅ Optional; max duration and limits vary, discussed with broker. |
| Towing and roadside assistance (including out-of-charge recovery for EVs) | ✅ Optional with Enhanced or Vroom bundle; $50 per event limit. | ✅ Optional; to be arranged with policy selection. |
| Use abroad (compliance with minimum local cover; optional full cover abroad) | NC | NC |
| Vehicle use for professional/business purposes (where applicable) | ❌ Commercial/rideshare use excluded. | ❌ Commercial/rideshare use excluded. |
| Driving other vehicles (third-party only or comprehensive, depending on the insurer) | ✅ Damage to rented/borrowed vehicles covered with optional add-on. | ✅ Add-on available for non-owned vehicles; discuss with broker. |
| Trailer or caravan towing cover | NC | NC |
Good to know
Sonnet features a seamless online quoting and claims process, instant digital documents, and an optional app to monitor driving for discounts. Sonnet also offers 1-year TELUS Health Virtual Care for customers and specialized group discounts, expanding value beyond standard policy features.
Definity Car Insurance Exclusions
Definity car insurance policies—whether through Sonnet or Economical—exclude damage caused by the use of the vehicle for business or commercial purposes, including ride-sharing with companies such as Uber or Lyft, which is more explicit than some competitors. Claims are also commonly denied for intentional acts, illegal activities, and for accidents involving unlisted or unauthorized drivers.
Mechanical breakdown, normal wear and tear, and specific high-risk vehicle uses are not covered by standard Definity contracts. Economical and Sonnet both refuse coverage for racing and criminal activities, consistent with industry standards.
Notably, Definity’s digital-first approach with Sonnet emphasizes clear exclusions on commercial and ridesharing use, a point where competitors may provide limited endorsements or separate policies.
| Exclusions | Details |
|---|---|
| Exclusions linked to the use of the vehicle | • Business or commercial use (including ride-sharing such as Uber/Lyft) • Racing or other illegal vehicle use • Use for criminal activities |
| Exclusions linked to the driver | • Use by unlisted or unauthorized drivers • Intentional damage or fraud • Driving without a valid driver’s license (N.C.) |
| Technical exclusions | • Mechanical breakdown • Wear and tear or gradual deterioration • Damage to high-risk or excluded vehicle types (N.C.) |
| Geographical exclusions | • N.C. |
| Contractual exclusions | • Policy void for misrepresentation or non-disclosure of material facts • Exclusions for vehicles not meeting eligibility (N.C.) |
• Racing or other illegal vehicle use
• Use for criminal activities
• Intentional damage or fraud
• Driving without a valid driver’s license (N.C.)
• Wear and tear or gradual deterioration
• Damage to high-risk or excluded vehicle types (N.C.)
• Exclusions for vehicles not meeting eligibility (N.C.)
N.C. = Not communicated in public Definity documentation. Always refer to your policy for specific limits, terms, and additional exclusions.
The cost of Definity car insurance
Definity, primarily through its digital-first brand Sonnet, stands out as a competitive insurer in the Canadian market thanks to instant online quoting, a fully self-serve platform, and tech-forward features like usage-based insurance (Sonnet Shift) that enable real-time personalization and substantial discounts for safe driving.
The base coverage structure and reimbursement levels are industry standard, with deductibles typically from $500–$1,000, and optional enhanced bundles offer further protection, though high-value extras and non-standard needs (like commercial use or high-limit roadside) may be less accessible or require a broker channel via Economical.
Definity's pure digital positioning via Sonnet generally allows for lower premiums and enhanced convenience compared to traditional players, especially for drivers comfortable managing coverage online.
However, coverage for ridesharing, commercial use, and highly customized products can be limited unless handled through the Economical broker network, potentially reducing flexibility for certain profiles.
Overall, Definity can be considered highly competitive on price for digital and claims-free drivers, with the caveat that niche requirements may need supplementation outside its default digital ecosystem.
| Sonnet Essential | Sonnet Standard | Sonnet Enhanced | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Young driver (18-24, compact vehicle) | $112/month | $135/month | $162/month |
| Standard driver (35-45, intermediate) | $67/month | $81/month | $97/month |
| Senior driver (60-70, city car) | $58/month | $69/month | $83/month |
| Driver with at-fault claim (3 years) | $124/month | $152/month | $184/month |
| New SUV driver | $94/month | $112/month | $136/month |
| Driver with >25,000km/year | $103/month | $121/month | $147/month |
To maximize your savings and coverage match, always compare several Definity quotes and other leading insurers based on your specific driving profile:
Compare the best car insurance plans for free!Start comparingDefinity car insurance discount codes
| Promotional codes Definity | Details |
|---|---|
| HelloSafe | -5% on your quote |
Note: promotional codes are subject to change. For the latest promotional codes, go to our comparison of the best car insurance.
How much will I be reimbursed with Definity?
| Claim or service | Average price (CA$) | Definity mandatory (liability only) | Definity standard (collision + comprehensive) | Definity enhanced (all options/bundles) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Replacement after theft | $28,000 | ❌ | Up to $28,000 (excluding excess) | Up to $28,000 or replacement value (excluding excess) |
| Repair after at-fault accident | $4,500 | ❌ | Up to $4,500 (excluding excess) | Up to $4,500 (excluding excess) |
| Windshield replacement | $800 | ❌ | Up to $800 (excluding excess) | Up to $800 (excluding excess) |
| Emergency towing | $180 | ❌ | ❌ | Up to $50 per event (excluding excess, with bundle) |
| Vandalism repair | $2,000 | ❌ | Up to $2,000 (excluding excess) | Up to $2,000 (excluding excess) |
Definity Car Insurance Assistance
Definity’s car insurance, through Sonnet and Economical, offers roadside assistance as an optional feature, typically with a reimbursement cap rather than direct dispatch, which may be less comprehensive than some competitors.
Towing, locked car, and battery assistance are usually limited to up to $50 reimbursement per event under enhanced bundles, providing basic but not full-cost coverage.
Loss of use coverage for a rental vehicle is available if you purchase the right option, but emergency accommodation, vehicle repatriation, or support abroad are not standard and not explicitly advertised.
Dedicated support for electric vehicles or for animals on board has not been communicated, representing a gap for drivers with special requirements. Legal assistance after an accident is not specifically listed and therefore cannot be considered a benefit in the contract.
| Support Definity | Availability | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 24/7 roadside breakdown assistance | ✅ | Reimbursement up to $50 per event with enhanced bundle. Must arrange own assistance. |
| Towing to repair facility / Extended towing | ✅ | Reimbursement up to $50 per tow with bundle. No direct dispatch; higher costs not covered. |
| Assistance from home (0 km) | ✅ | Covered as above if you cannot start or move your vehicle at home. Requires bundle. |
| Replacement vehicle | ✅ | Up to 30 days available after a covered loss, with Loss of Use option or bundle. |
| Alternative transport or accommodation | ❌ | N.C. |
| Vehicle repatriation | ❌ | N.C. |
| Assistance abroad | ❌ | N.C. |
| Assistance for electric vehicles | ❌ | N.C. |
| Battery assistance & fuel misfuelling | ✅ | Battery boost eligible under roadside bundle (up to $50). Fuel misfuelling: N.C. |
| Legal assistance after an accident | ❌ | N.C. |
| Assistance for animals on board | ❌ | N.C. |
| Key recovery & lock replacement | ✅ | Locksmith service (up to $50) with roadside assistance; lock replacement: N.C. |
Must arrange own assistance.
No direct dispatch; higher costs not covered.
Requires bundle.
Fuel misfuelling: N.C.
Customer feedback on Definity car insurance
| Review site | Rating and number of reviews |
|---|---|
| Trustpilot | 5 out of 5 (multiple reviews) |
Here are the pros and cons highlighted by Definity car insurance clients:
✅ The online quoting and policy management process is described as easy and convenient by a significant number of clients.
✅ Many customers cite fast approval and an efficient claims process when filing or managing car insurance claims.
✅ A competitive pricing model and affordable quotes are frequently highlighted by reviewers as strong positive aspects.
✅ Responsive customer service and clear, easy-to-understand policy documents are commonly praised.
❌ Some clients note delays in receiving physical policy documents, particularly related to mail disruptions.
❌ Occasional feedback mentions that certain coverage limitations or exclusions were not initially clear when buying online.
❌ There are sparse reports about waiting times or limited options to handle complex changes outside the digital platform.
How to contact Definity?
| Customer service Definity | 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. |
| To report a claim | Sonnet: Submit online via your account 24/7 or call 1-844-766-6384. Economical: Call 1-800-607-2424 (24/7) or contact your broker directly. |
| To request and track a refund | Sonnet: Contact support via online chat. Refunds are processed to the original payment method; average times may vary, but typically within a few business days after approval. Economical: Contact your broker or call 1-800-607-2424. |
| To obtain an insurance certificate | Sonnet: Download instantly from your online account or app. Mailed copies are available. Economical: Request through your broker or call 1-800-607-2424. |
| To contact assistance | Sonnet: Use the live chat on the Sonnet website or call 1-844-766-6384. Economical: Call 1-800-607-2424 or contact your broker. Postal: Suite 200 - 700 University Ave, Toronto, ON M5G 0A1 (Sonnet), 111 Westmount Rd S, Waterloo, ON N2J 4S4 (Economical) |
| To cancel my contract | Sonnet: Cancel via your online account. A cancellation calculator is available online; notice period and documents required will be communicated as part of the process. Economical: Contact your broker or call 1-800-607-2424 to initiate the car insurance cancellation; required documents (if any) and notice period will be provided by your broker. |
Economical: Call 1-800-607-2424 (24/7) or contact your broker directly.
Economical: Contact your broker or call 1-800-607-2424.
Economical: Request through your broker or call 1-800-607-2424.
Economical: Call 1-800-607-2424 or contact your broker.
Postal: Suite 200 - 700 University Ave, Toronto, ON M5G 0A1 (Sonnet), 111 Westmount Rd S, Waterloo, ON N2J 4S4 (Economical)
Economical: Contact your broker or call 1-800-607-2424 to initiate the car insurance cancellation; required documents (if any) and notice period will be provided by your broker.
FAQ
Do I have to pay in advance for repairs or assistance with Definity?
Definity, through both Sonnet and Economical, typically pays approved partner garages and towing providers directly for eligible claims and roadside assistance. If you use a provider outside their network, you may need to pay upfront and submit your receipts for reimbursement, subject to policy conditions.
How do I cancel my car insurance contract with Definity?
To cancel your Definity car insurance, contact your online Sonnet account support or your Economical broker, give at least 30 days’ notice, and provide your policy number along with a signed cancellation request and proof of new insurance if required.
What discounts are available with Definity car insurance?
Definity offers a range of discounts, including savings for bundling car and home insurance, being claims-free, applying winter tires, membership group affiliation, multi-vehicle policies, and safe driving (especially with usage-based programs like Sonnet Shift). Eligibility and amounts can vary by province and brand.
How do I file a claim with Definity, and how long does reimbursement take?
You can submit a claim 24/7 through your Sonnet online account, via phone, or through your Economical broker. After providing the required documentation, an adjuster will review your claim; approved claims are generally paid promptly by direct deposit, though exact timing depends on claim complexity.
Does Definity offer coverage for ridesharing like Uber or Lyft?
Definity standard policies do not cover ridesharing or commercial driving use. If you plan to drive for a service like Uber or Lyft, you must inform Definity or your broker as you may need special commercial insurance that is not included in Sonnet or Economical personal policies.
Can I download my insurance certificate online with Definity?
Yes, Sonnet customers can download digital insurance certificates (pink slips) anytime from their online accounts or app. Economical customers should request a certificate through their broker or the Economical online portal. Paper copies can be mailed upon request.
Do I have to pay in advance for repairs or assistance with Definity?
Definity, through both Sonnet and Economical, typically pays approved partner garages and towing providers directly for eligible claims and roadside assistance. If you use a provider outside their network, you may need to pay upfront and submit your receipts for reimbursement, subject to policy conditions.
How do I cancel my car insurance contract with Definity?
To cancel your Definity car insurance, contact your online Sonnet account support or your Economical broker, give at least 30 days’ notice, and provide your policy number along with a signed cancellation request and proof of new insurance if required.
What discounts are available with Definity car insurance?
Definity offers a range of discounts, including savings for bundling car and home insurance, being claims-free, applying winter tires, membership group affiliation, multi-vehicle policies, and safe driving (especially with usage-based programs like Sonnet Shift). Eligibility and amounts can vary by province and brand.
How do I file a claim with Definity, and how long does reimbursement take?
You can submit a claim 24/7 through your Sonnet online account, via phone, or through your Economical broker. After providing the required documentation, an adjuster will review your claim; approved claims are generally paid promptly by direct deposit, though exact timing depends on claim complexity.
Does Definity offer coverage for ridesharing like Uber or Lyft?
Definity standard policies do not cover ridesharing or commercial driving use. If you plan to drive for a service like Uber or Lyft, you must inform Definity or your broker as you may need special commercial insurance that is not included in Sonnet or Economical personal policies.
Can I download my insurance certificate online with Definity?
Yes, Sonnet customers can download digital insurance certificates (pink slips) anytime from their online accounts or app. Economical customers should request a certificate through their broker or the Economical online portal. Paper copies can be mailed upon request.
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