Definity Car Insurance Review 2025: Pros, Cons & Verdict
Our expert's review on Definity
Definity car insurance, primarily through its digital-first Sonnet brand, presents a modern and highly flexible offer for Canadian drivers. It features mandatory provincial coverages alongside customizable options like Collision and Comprehensive, with innovative bundles available. Reimbursement ceilings are standard, deductibles are adjustable from $500 to $1,000, and a standout prevention program, Sonnet Shift, rewards safe drivers with discounts up to 35%.
Compared to traditional insurers, Definity's Sonnet brand is a leading tech-driven competitor, prized for its seamless digital experience and competitive, usage-based pricing.
This insurance is particularly well-suited for tech-savvy drivers, those with safe driving habits seeking significant discounts, and individuals belonging to one of over 2,000 partner associations.
Definity's reliability is powerfully reflected in customer satisfaction, with its Sonnet brand earning an exceptional 5/5 rating on Trustpilot from numerous recent reviews, and claims are handled promptly via a 24/7 online service.
- ✅Fully digital experience with Sonnet
- ✅Significant savings with usage-based insurance
- ✅Exceptional 5/5 Trustpilot rating for Sonnet
- ✅24/7 online claims submission and management
- ✅Extensive group and multi-policy discounts
- ✅Accident and ticket forgiveness options
- ✅Complimentary 1-year TELUS Health Virtual Care
- ❌No coverage for commercial ridesharing (Uber/Lyft)
- ❌Some protection bundles are province-specific
- ❌Low roadside assistance reimbursement limit ($50)
- ❌Economical brand requires using a broker
- ❌No explicit coverage for personal belongings
Score- ✅Fully digital experience with Sonnet
- ✅Significant savings with usage-based insurance
- ✅Exceptional 5/5 Trustpilot rating for Sonnet
- ✅24/7 online claims submission and management
- ✅Extensive group and multi-policy discounts
- ✅Accident and ticket forgiveness options
- ✅Complimentary 1-year TELUS Health Virtual Care
Our expert's review on Definity
- ✅Fully digital experience with Sonnet
- ✅Significant savings with usage-based insurance
- ✅Exceptional 5/5 Trustpilot rating for Sonnet
- ✅24/7 online claims submission and management
- ✅Extensive group and multi-policy discounts
- ✅Accident and ticket forgiveness options
- ✅Complimentary 1-year TELUS Health Virtual Care
- ❌No coverage for commercial ridesharing (Uber/Lyft)
- ❌Some protection bundles are province-specific
- ❌Low roadside assistance reimbursement limit ($50)
- ❌Economical brand requires using a broker
- ❌No explicit coverage for personal belongings
Score- ✅Fully digital experience with Sonnet
- ✅Significant savings with usage-based insurance
- ✅Exceptional 5/5 Trustpilot rating for Sonnet
- ✅24/7 online claims submission and management
- ✅Extensive group and multi-policy discounts
- ✅Accident and ticket forgiveness options
- ✅Complimentary 1-year TELUS Health Virtual Care
Compared to traditional insurers, Definity's Sonnet brand is a leading tech-driven competitor, prized for its seamless digital experience and competitive, usage-based pricing.
This insurance is particularly well-suited for tech-savvy drivers, those with safe driving habits seeking significant discounts, and individuals belonging to one of over 2,000 partner associations.
Definity's reliability is powerfully reflected in customer satisfaction, with its Sonnet brand earning an exceptional 5/5 rating on Trustpilot from numerous recent reviews, and claims are handled promptly via a 24/7 online service.
Why trust Hellosafe?
Every year at HelloSafe, our Definity expert analyses the general terms and conditions and rates of insurance contracts on the market to provide you with a reliable and impartial analysis. Over a million users now trust us every month to help them with their most important financial decisions.
Definity car insurance guarantees
Definity offers car insurance under its main brands Sonnet and Economical, providing mandatory liability coverage as required by Canadian law, with optional protections such as collision, comprehensive, accident forgiveness, and various bundled enhancements depending on the province. Sonnet, a digital-first insurer, stands out for its instant quoting, fully online policy management, and usage-based pricing via Sonnet Shift, which can reward safe driving with significant discounts. Coverage limits, deductible options, and reimbursement ceilings are adjustable, with key benefits like rental vehicle coverage and roadside assistance available through specific bundles. Notable limitations include standard exclusions for commercial use and some coverages only available in select regions; third-party liability limits follow provincial minimums but can be increased for added protection. Overall, Definity’s plans closely match or exceed Canadian market norms for flexibility, digital convenience, and customer satisfaction, though extras such as extended legal protection or full personal belongings cover are not always listed and should be verified at the time of policy selection.
| Warranty name | Sonnet Essential Plan (Sample) | Sonnet Bundles/Options | Economical Standard Plan |
|---|---|---|---|
| Formula positioning | Basic mandatory with upgrade options | Optional bundles for extended cover | Standard package via broker |
| Type of cover | Third-party liability, collision, opt. | Bundles: rental, roadside, replacement | Third-party, collision, comp., etc. |
| Reimbursement rate (% of damages covered) | Up to policy limit, as per province | Up to policy and bundle limits | Up to policy limit |
| Annual reimbursement ceiling | Per claim up to liability limit | Per claim up to bundle sub-limits | Per claim up to liability limit |
| Policy excess (per claim and/or annually) | Adjustable: typically $500–$1,000 | By coverage; can apply per event | Adjustable at policy purchase |
| Waiting period (before certain guarantees) | None communicated | None communicated | None communicated |
| Minimum/maximum age for subscription | N.C. | N.C. | N.C. |
| Prior risk assessment | Driving history, vehicle, claims | Driving history, vehicle, claims | Driving history, broker review |
| Payment facilities | Monthly or annual | Monthly or annual | Monthly, quarterly, annual |
| Advance payment of claim-related costs | N.C. | N.C. | N.C. |
| Compensation at purchase/agreed value | Replacement value (bundle option) | Available with Enhanced or Vroom bundle | N.C. |
| Third-party liability | Mandatory by province, $200,000 min | Higher limits available | Mandatory by province |
| Own vehicle damage (collision, regardless) | Optional Collision/All Perils | Bundles may enhance benefits | Optional Collision/All Perils |
| Theft of vehicle (partial or total) | Optional Comprehensive/All Perils | Comprehensive optional | Optional Comprehensive |
| Fire (accidental or criminal) | Optional Comprehensive/All Perils | Comprehensive optional | Optional Comprehensive |
| Broken glass (windscreen, windows, sunroof) | Optional: under Comprehensive | N.C. | Comprehensive or per add-on |
| Natural disasters (hail, flood, storm) | Covered under Comprehensive | N.C. | Covered under Comprehensive |
| Acts of vandalism | Covered under Comprehensive | N.C. | Covered under Comprehensive |
| All-risks damage (any cause, incl. at-fault) | All Perils or full bundle | Enhanced or Vroom bundles | All Perils optional |
| Driver personal injury cover | Accident benefits (except NL) | Accident benefits standard | Included in Accident Benefits |
| Passenger injury cover | Accident benefits (except NL) | Accident benefits standard | Included in Accident Benefits |
| Criminal defence and recourse | N.C. | N.C. | N.C. |
| Extended legal protection | N.C. | N.C. | N.C. |
| Vehicle accessories/modifications | N.C. | N.C. | N.C. |
| Personal belongings in vehicle | N.C. | N.C. | N.C. |
| Child equipment (seats, pushchairs) | N.C. | N.C. | N.C. |
| Replacement vehicle (during repairs/loss) | Up to 30 days (Loss of Use or bundle) | Rental/Loss of Use/E. Protect bundle | Optional, per policy |
| Towing and roadside assistance | Up to $50/event (with bundle) | Included in Vroom/Enhanced bundles | Optional, per policy |
| Use abroad | N.C. | N.C. | N.C. |
| Vehicle use for business/professional | ❌ (excludes commercial/rideshare) | ❌ (not covered) | ❌ (typically excluded) |
| Driving other vehicles | Optional Damage to Non-Owned Vehicle | Available in select bundles | Optional extension, per policy |
| Trailer or caravan towing cover | N.C. | N.C. | N.C. |
*Replacement value requires enhanced or Vroom bundle (not in Ontario).* *Some options and benefits availability may be province-specific.*
Good to know: Sonnet provides instant online quotes, fully digital policy management, and 24/7 online claims submission; Sonnet Shift allows drivers to earn discounts based on driving habits via mobile app, and policyholders benefit from a complimentary year of virtual health care with TELUS Health.
Compare the best car insurance plans for free!Start comparingCar insurance exclusions
Definity systematically excludes coverage for any use of the vehicle for business or commercial purposes, including ridesharing for Uber or Lyft, which stands out as a rigorous application of personal-use-only terms compared to some competitors. Coverage is also denied for damages caused by unlisted drivers or while engaging in illegal activities, intentional damage, or the operation of certain high-risk vehicles. Another key feature is the exclusion of coverage for Rental Extension and Vroom Service Bundles in Ontario, a limitation specific to certain provinces and not found with all insurers. Standard exclusions such as claims resulting from racing, participation in criminal acts, and damage caused while under the influence echo the broader Canadian market. Full details should be confirmed in the policy wording, as some exclusions and restrictions may vary by brand or bundle.
| Exclusions | Details |
|---|---|
| Vehicle use exclusions |
|
| Driver-related exclusions |
|
| Technical exclusions |
|
| Geographical/provincial exclusions |
|
| Contractual/general exclusions |
|
- Commercial or business use not covered, including ridesharing (Uber, Lyft).
- Damage or loss during races and competitive events excluded.
- Claims denied if driver is unlisted.
- No coverage for intentional damage by the insured.
- No coverage for illegal activities (e.g., driving without license or impaired).
- Certain high-risk vehicles excluded (full list in policy wording).
- Rental Extension and Vroom Service Bundles not available in Ontario.
- Mechanical breakdown and normal wear and tear not covered.
- Personal belongings coverage not explicitly listed.
- N.C. for extended legal protection, personal effects, and child equipment.
The cost of Definity car insurance
Definity positions itself as a competitive player in the Canadian car insurance market, primarily due to its digital-first approach via Sonnet, which enables lower overhead costs and thus more attractive premiums than most traditional insurers. Its plans combine flexible coverage options, robust customer service, and valuable discounts (such as Sonnet Shift's usage-based savings), placing it ahead of many conventional brokers regarding price-accessibility for similar guarantees. Coverage is generally on par with leading direct insurers and can include high-value features, though deductibles are typically standard and options like legal or accessory cover must be checked policy-by-policy. Compared to purely budget insurers, Definity’s coverage is more comprehensive, but the digital experience makes it more economical than legacy broker-only brands. Overall, Definity's price positioning is competitive, offering a strong value proposition for digital-savvy consumers who prioritize convenience and tailored pricing.
| Sonnet (Digital) | Economical (Traditional) | |
|---|---|---|
| Young driver (18-24, compact) | $180/month | $210/month |
| Standard driver (35-45, intermediate) | $120/month | $135/month |
| Senior driver (60-70, city car) | $85/month | $95/month |
| At-fault claim in last 3 years | $230/month | $260/month |
| New SUV driver | $130/month | $145/month |
| >25,000km/year | $160/month | $180/month |
To find the cheapest rate for your needs, always compare personalized quotes from several insurers.
Compare the best car insurance plans for free!Start comparingDefinity Car Insurance Discount Codes
| Promotional codes Definity | Details |
|---|---|
| HelloSafe promo code | -5% on your quote |
Note: promotional codes are subject to change. For the latest promotional codes, go to our comparison of the best car insurance.
How much will I be reimbursed with Definity?
| Claim or service | Average price (CA$) | Liability only (Sonnet/Economical) | Collision & comprehensive (Sonnet) | Enhanced protection bundle (Sonnet, ON) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Replacement after theft | $18,000 | ❌ | Up to vehicle value (excluding excess); out-of-pocket: $0–$17,500 | Up to vehicle value, possible replacement value (excluding excess); out-of-pocket: $0–$17,500 |
| Repair after at-fault accident | $6,000 | ❌ | Up to $6,000 (excluding excess); out-of-pocket: $0–$5,500 | Up to $6,000 (excluding excess); out-of-pocket: $0–$5,500 |
| Windshield replacement | $900 | ❌ | Up to $900 (excluding excess); out-of-pocket: $0–$400 | Up to $900 (excluding excess); out-of-pocket: $0–$400 |
| Rental car (loss of use, per occurrence) | $1,000 | ❌ | Up to $1,000 (if Loss of Use option); out-of-pocket: $0–$950 | Up to $1,000 for 30 days (excluding excess); out-of-pocket: $0–$950 |
| Vandalism damage repair | $1,500 | ❌ | Up to $1,500 (excluding excess); out-of-pocket: $0–$1,000 | Up to $1,500 (excluding excess); out-of-pocket: $0–$1,000 |
Definity Car Insurance Assistance
Definity provides 24/7 roadside assistance with select bundles (such as Sonnet's Enhanced Protection or Vroom Service), but this is limited to a reimbursement of up to $50 per event, which is relatively modest compared to other insurers who may offer higher limits or more included services.
Towing after an accident is covered but extended towing for long distances or towing at home (0 km) is not explicitly guaranteed, making at-home breakdowns a possible blind spot.
A replacement vehicle is available with the Loss of Use or Enhanced Protection bundles, but only in specific covered events—routine breakdowns or at-home immobilization are not included.
Alternative transport and accommodation coverage are not detailed, which may be a gap for drivers who travel long distances or in remote areas.
Overall, Definity meets the minimum with digital-first support and select assistance options, but its assistance is less comprehensive than some competitors, especially for non-accident situations.
| Support Definity | Availability | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 24/7 roadside breakdown assistance | ✅ | With eligible bundle (Sonnet). |
| Reimbursement up to $50/event for onsite help, towing, battery boost, tire change, unlock. | ||
| Towing to repair facility / Extended towing | ✅ | Included in roadside assistance with eligible bundle. |
| Towing reimbursed up to $50/event. Extended towing and all-distance coverage not specified. | ||
| Assistance from home (0 km) | ❌ | Not communicated. Not mentioned in public sources. |
| Replacement vehicle | ✅ | Provided with Loss of Use or Enhanced Protection bundle. |
| Rental car available up to 30 days during eligible repairs/total loss (covered claim only). | ||
| Alternative transport or accommodation | ❌ | Not communicated. No explicit coverage for hotel/transport costs. |
| Vehicle repatriation | ❌ | Not communicated. Not stated in available documents. |
| Assistance abroad | ❌ | Not communicated. No clear information for incidents outside Canada. |
| Assistance for electric vehicles | ❌ | Not communicated. No specific cover for EV-related issues. |
| Battery assistance & fuel misfuelling | ✅ | Jump start and onsite help included in $50 roadside reimbursement. Misfuelling not specified. |
| Legal assistance after an accident | ❌ | Not communicated. Legal defence/recourse not listed. |
| Assistance for animals on board | ❌ | Not communicated. Support for pets not mentioned. |
| Key recovery & lock replacement | ✅ | Included in $50 roadside service reimbursement if locked out. Key/lock replacement not detailed. |
Customer feedback on Definity car insurance
| Review site | Rating and number of reviews |
|---|---|
| Trustpilot | 5 out of 5 stars (multiple recent reviews, 2024–2025) |
We have analyzed the reviews on the above-mentioned site.
- An online process that is described as quick and easy makes it simple for customers to get insured or update their coverage.
- Many customers highlight affordable rates and clear, straightforward policy information.
- Responsiveness and effectiveness of customer service are frequently praised by those needing assistance or filing a claim.
- Some policyholders note delays receiving physical documents, often attributed to disruptions in Canada Post service.
- There is little criticism regarding claims experience or service, but documentation and communication delays are mentioned by a few.
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: Online 24/7 at www.sonnet.ca or call 1-844-766-6384. Economical: Phone 1-800-607-2424 (24/7). You may also email claims@economical.com. |
| To request and track a refund | Submit your claim online via your Sonnet account or call 1-844-766-6384. Economical: contact your broker or call 1-800-607-2424. Provide claim form, proof of loss, and bills; refunds are paid by direct deposit, usually within a few business days after approval. |
| To obtain an insurance certificate | Sonnet: Download instantly via your online account or request by email at contact@sonnet.ca. Economical: request from your broker or call 1-800-607-2424. Mailed copies may take a few business days. |
| To contact assistance | Sonnet: 24/7 at 1-844-766-6384. Economical: 24/7 at 1-800-607-2424. For both, roadside assistance is available with eligible coverage. |
| To cancel my contract | Sonnet: Log in to your online account or contact support at contact@sonnet.ca or 1-844-766-6384. Economical: Contact your broker or call 1-800-607-2424. Usually required: written request, policy number, reason, and notice (typically 1–2 weeks). Refunds (if any) are processed to your original payment method. |
Economical: Phone 1-800-607-2424 (24/7).
You may also email claims@economical.com.
Economical: contact your broker or call 1-800-607-2424.
Provide claim form, proof of loss, and bills; refunds are paid by direct deposit, usually within a few business days after approval.
Economical: request from your broker or call 1-800-607-2424. Mailed copies may take a few business days.
Economical: 24/7 at 1-800-607-2424.
For both, roadside assistance is available with eligible coverage.
Economical: Contact your broker or call 1-800-607-2424.
Usually required: written request, policy number, reason, and notice (typically 1–2 weeks). Refunds (if any) are processed to your original payment method.
FAQ
Do I have to pay in advance for repairs or assistance with Definity?
With Definity (through Sonnet or Economical), you’ll typically pay the repair shop or tow operator yourself and then submit a claim for reimbursement. Some affiliated repair shops may offer direct billing, but this isn’t guaranteed, so always confirm with your claims advisor before proceeding.
How do I cancel my car insurance contract with Definity?
To cancel your contract, contact your broker or Definity’s customer service (typically with 30 days’ notice) and submit a written request including your policy number and signature; additional documents may be requested to complete the process.
What is covered by Definity’s car insurance policies?
Definity offers mandatory coverages such as third-party liability and accident benefits, plus optional protections like collision, comprehensive, roadside assistance, rental car coverage, and forgiveness options. Coverage details and limits can be tailored based on your needs and province.
Are there discounts available on Definity car insurance?
Yes, Definity provides various discounts including those for bundling policies (home and auto), good driving records, participating in usage-based programs like Sonnet Shift, group memberships, winter tires, and being claims free. Discount eligibility varies by brand and region.
How do I file and follow up on a claim with Definity?
Claims can be filed online or over the phone 24/7, providing incident details and supporting documents such as repair invoices or police reports. You’ll receive regular updates on your claim’s status via your online account, by email, or from your dedicated claims advisor.
Is rideshare or commercial driving covered under a Definity policy?
No, standard Definity car insurance does not cover rideshare (Uber, Lyft) or other commercial driving activities. If you use your vehicle for business or ridesharing, you’ll need additional commercial coverage—contact Definity or your broker to explore your options.
Do I have to pay in advance for repairs or assistance with Definity?
With Definity (through Sonnet or Economical), you’ll typically pay the repair shop or tow operator yourself and then submit a claim for reimbursement. Some affiliated repair shops may offer direct billing, but this isn’t guaranteed, so always confirm with your claims advisor before proceeding.
How do I cancel my car insurance contract with Definity?
To cancel your contract, contact your broker or Definity’s customer service (typically with 30 days’ notice) and submit a written request including your policy number and signature; additional documents may be requested to complete the process.
What is covered by Definity’s car insurance policies?
Definity offers mandatory coverages such as third-party liability and accident benefits, plus optional protections like collision, comprehensive, roadside assistance, rental car coverage, and forgiveness options. Coverage details and limits can be tailored based on your needs and province.
Are there discounts available on Definity car insurance?
Yes, Definity provides various discounts including those for bundling policies (home and auto), good driving records, participating in usage-based programs like Sonnet Shift, group memberships, winter tires, and being claims free. Discount eligibility varies by brand and region.
How do I file and follow up on a claim with Definity?
Claims can be filed online or over the phone 24/7, providing incident details and supporting documents such as repair invoices or police reports. You’ll receive regular updates on your claim’s status via your online account, by email, or from your dedicated claims advisor.
Is rideshare or commercial driving covered under a Definity policy?
No, standard Definity car insurance does not cover rideshare (Uber, Lyft) or other commercial driving activities. If you use your vehicle for business or ridesharing, you’ll need additional commercial coverage—contact Definity or your broker to explore your options.
