Onlia Car Insurance Canada: Our 2025 Review & Verdict
Our expert's review on Onlia
Onlia car insurance stands out in the Ontario market with its modern, digital-first approach, consolidating its offer into a single, comprehensive policy rather than complex tiered formulas. Standard coverage is robust, including not just mandatory protections but also valuable built-in features like Accident and Ticket Forgiveness, a rental car during repairs, and Family Protection. Policyholders can customize with optional add-ons, increasing liability limits up to $2 million, and can adjust their deductibles to manage premium costs.
Compared to traditional competitors, Onlia positions itself as a streamlined and cost-effective alternative, leveraging its fully online model to deliver efficiency and rates that are often lower.
This insurance is therefore particularly well-suited for digitally-savvy drivers who prefer the convenience and speed of managing their policy entirely through an app or website.
As a digital-native insurer, Onlia prioritizes efficient, app-based management, though specific financial data on turnover or premium volume is not available. Similarly, no external Trustpilot rating is referenced in the source, and while average reimbursement times are not specified, the claims process is designed for digital speed.
- ✅Standard Accident and Ticket Forgiveness
- ✅Fully digital, self-service model
- ✅Competitive, often lower rates
- ✅Rental car access during repairs included
- ✅No-penalty cancellation at any time
- ✅Fast online quote and setup process
- ✅Family Protection included as standard
- ❌Primarily digital with limited phone support
- ❌No public data on turnover or premiums
- ❌No independent Trustpilot rating available
- ❌Unspecified claims reimbursement timeframe
- ❌Full policy contract not publicly visible
Our expert's review on Onlia
- ✅Standard Accident and Ticket Forgiveness
- ✅Fully digital, self-service model
- ✅Competitive, often lower rates
- ✅Rental car access during repairs included
- ✅No-penalty cancellation at any time
- ✅Fast online quote and setup process
- ✅Family Protection included as standard
- ❌Primarily digital with limited phone support
- ❌No public data on turnover or premiums
- ❌No independent Trustpilot rating available
- ❌Unspecified claims reimbursement timeframe
- ❌Full policy contract not publicly visible
- ✅Standard Accident and Ticket Forgiveness
- ✅Fully digital, self-service model
- ✅Competitive, often lower rates
- ✅Rental car access during repairs included
- ✅No-penalty cancellation at any time
- ✅Fast online quote and setup process
- ✅Family Protection included as standard
Compared to traditional competitors, Onlia positions itself as a streamlined and cost-effective alternative, leveraging its fully online model to deliver efficiency and rates that are often lower.
This insurance is therefore particularly well-suited for digitally-savvy drivers who prefer the convenience and speed of managing their policy entirely through an app or website.
As a digital-native insurer, Onlia prioritizes efficient, app-based management, though specific financial data on turnover or premium volume is not available. Similarly, no external Trustpilot rating is referenced in the source, and while average reimbursement times are not specified, the claims process is designed for digital speed.
Why trust Hellosafe?
Every year at HelloSafe, our 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.
The Onlia Car Insurance Guarantees
Onlia delivers an all-digital car insurance experience with plans that always include mandatory Ontario coverages—accident benefits, third-party liability, uninsured automobile, and direct compensation property damage—along with notable built-in features like accident forgiveness, ticket forgiveness, a robust rental car benefit, and the family protection endorsement.
Optional enhancements span increased liability limits, customizable accident benefits, collision, comprehensive, and a removing depreciation deduction for new cars, all with user-selectable deductibles.
Market positioning is strong due to a comprehensive baseline offer and digital-first management, though roadside assistance and certain legal benefits require extra confirmation or purchase. Any personalization, policy change, or cancellation is quickly handled within the online portal, representing a clear advantage for tech-savvy drivers.
However, exclusions are standard for the Ontario market and additional optional modules—like legal and personal effects cover—are not showcased publicly and may require direct inquiry.
Warranty name | Onlia Car Insurance (Ontario) |
---|---|
Formula positioning | Mandatory cover plus digital-first added features |
Type of cover | Third-party liability, DCPD, accident benefits, optional add-ons |
Reimbursement rate (% of damages covered) | 100% up to the policy and legal limits |
Annual reimbursement ceiling (maximum amount reimbursed per year) | $1M or $2M liability; car value for damages |
Policy excess (per claim and/or annually) | User-selectable; common choices: $500–$1,000 |
Waiting period (before certain guarantees take effect) | Immediate after policy activation |
Minimum/maximum age for subscription | NC |
Prior risk assessment (medical questionnaire, telematics, driving history) | Driving history, vehicle, and personal data required |
Payment facilities | Monthly payments with online self-management |
Advance payment of claim-related costs | Repair shops may bill Onlia directly; you pay deductible |
Compensation at purchase value/agreed value/replacement value | Market value; new for old possible with "removing depreciation" option |
Third-party liability (bodily injury and property damage to others) | $1M mandatory; $2M available as option |
Own vehicle damage (collision, regardless of fault) | Optional collision; covered if selected |
Theft of vehicle (partial or total) | Optional comprehensive; covered if selected |
Fire (accidental or criminal) | Optional comprehensive; covered if selected |
Broken glass (windscreen, windows, sunroof) | Covered under comprehensive; deductible applies |
Natural disasters (hail, flood, storm, etc.) | Covered under comprehensive; standard perils included |
Acts of vandalism | Covered under comprehensive |
All-risks damage (accidents of any cause, including at-fault) | Collision and comprehensive selected together |
Driver personal injury cover (death, disability, medical expenses) | Standard accident benefits as required by law |
Passenger injury cover | Covered by accident benefits |
Criminal defence and recourse (basic legal aid after an accident) | NC |
Extended legal protection (for disputes beyond accidents, e.g. purchase, repairs) | NC |
Vehicle accessories and modifications (including electric vehicle batteries and cables) | NC |
Personal belongings inside the vehicle (excluding cash and documents) | NC |
Child equipment (seats, pushchairs) | NC |
Replacement vehicle (during repairs or after total loss) | Covered if car is under repair from insured loss |
Towing and roadside assistance (including out-of-charge recovery for EVs) | NC; may be available as add-on |
Use abroad (compliance with minimum local cover; optional full cover abroad) | Canada and continental US; no Mexico |
Vehicle use for professional/business purposes (where applicable) | Rideshare/taxi excluded unless endorsed |
Driving other vehicles (third-party only or comprehensive, depending on the insurer) | NC |
Trailer or caravan towing cover | NC |
*NC = Not communicated. Most specifics are managed during the quoting or coverage change process inside the digital portal.*
Good to know
Onlia enables all policy management, quotes, and claims digitally through their website and app, with instant eligibility decisions, paperless service, and no penalties for cancellation at any time. Their app offers driver coaching and reward programs, and bundling with home insurance is also supported for further discounts.
Car Insurance Exclusions
Onlia excludes cover for any damage caused during the use of your car for ridesharing or taxi services unless you have purchased a specific endorsement, which is a key distinction compared to some competitors that allow basic carpooling automatically. Damage resulting from illegal activities, racing, or driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is never covered and follows industry standards.
Normal wear and tear, tire replacement due to flats or usage, and any mechanical failure are also explicitly excluded from reimbursement unless linked to a covered event. Coverage is geographically limited to Canada and the continental United States, so claims for incidents occurring outside these areas are not accepted.
Unlicensed or unauthorized drivers are always excluded from coverage, consistent with standard Ontario insurance practice.
Exclusions | Details |
---|---|
Exclusions linked to the use of the vehicle | Ridesharing/taxi use unless policy explicitly endorsedParticipation in illegal racing or contestsUse for illegal activities |
Exclusions linked to the driver | Unlicensed driversDriving under the influence of alcohol or drugs |
Technical exclusions | Normal wear and tearMechanical or electrical failuresTire damage due to flats or routine use |
Geographical exclusions | Damage or incidents occurring outside Canada or continental US |
Contractual exclusions | Claims exceeding coverage limits or relating to excluded perilsDamage to personal items in vehicle unless endorsement applies |
Onlia car insurance cost
Onlia positions itself as a competitive, digital-first insurer with generally lower pricing than many traditional providers, largely thanks to its streamlined online platform and self-managed services.
Its standard policy includes features like accident and ticket forgiveness, rental car coverage, and family protection—typically add-ons elsewhere—making its offer robust for the price point. Deductibles and coverage levels are customizable, and premium rates are especially appealing for tech-savvy drivers who value convenience over in-person service.
However, certain niche or high-value extras may be less accessible compared to legacy insurers with more personalized packages. Overall, Onlia is best suited to drivers seeking value, flexibility, and end-to-end digital management without sacrificing essential protections.
Basic policy | Standard (with collision & comprehensive) | Maximum (bundled, all options) | |
---|---|---|---|
Young driver (18-24 years old, compact vehicle) | $108/month | $156/month | $138/month |
Standard driver (35-45 years, intermediate vehicle) | $61/month | $92/month | $77/month |
Senior driver (60-70 years, city car) | $44/month | $63/month | $54/month |
Driver with an at-fault claim within 3 years | $175/month | $227/month | $194/month |
New SUV driver | $73/month | $119/month | $102/month |
Driver with more than 25,000km/year | $79/month | $124/month | $110/month |
Find the most competitive rate for your driving profile by comparing Onlia with other digital and traditional insurers:
Compare the best car insurance plans for free!Start comparingOnlia Car Insurance Discounts
Promotional codes Onlia | Details |
---|---|
HelloSafe | -5% on your quote |
Note: promotional codes are subject to change. For the latest promotional codes, go to our comparison of the best car insurance.
How much you will be reimbursed with Onlia?
Claim or service | Average price (CA$) | Onlia Third-Party Liability/DCPD | Onlia Collision coverage | Onlia Comprehensive coverage |
---|---|---|---|---|
Replacement after theft | $18,000 | ❌ | ❌ | Up to vehicle value (excluding excess); out-of-pocket: deductible + above vehicle value |
Repair after at-fault accident | $7,500 | ❌ | Up to vehicle value (excluding excess); out-of-pocket: deductible + above vehicle value | ❌ |
Windshield repair | $600 | ❌ | ❌ | Up to $600 (excluding excess); out-of-pocket: deductible |
Rental car during covered repairs | $1,200 | Up to policy limits (excluding excess); out-of-pocket: deductible + above limit if any | Up to policy limits (excluding excess); out-of-pocket: deductible + above limit if any | Up to policy limits (excluding excess); out-of-pocket: deductible + above limit if any |
Animal collision damage | $4,500 | ❌ | Up to vehicle value (excluding excess); out-of-pocket: deductible + above vehicle value | Up to vehicle value (if not collision; excluding excess); out-of-pocket: deductible + above vehicle value |
Onlia's Car Insurance Assistance
Onlia provides several convenient assistance services, notably including a rental vehicle during repairs or after a total loss, which stands out as a major benefit for policyholders reliant on their vehicle for daily needs.
There is no detailed evidence of 24/7 roadside assistance or towing being included as standard, which is a notable omission compared to many competitors.
Assistance for drivers immobilized at home or coverage for alternative transport and emergency accommodation are not formally communicated, limiting support options in real roadside emergencies.
Features such as legal assistance, help for animals on board, or support specific to electric vehicles do not appear to be included or detailed in the policy documents or on the public website.
Key recovery and lock replacement are likewise non-communicated, which drivers should assess if these services are important for peace of mind.
Support Onlia | Availability | Details |
---|---|---|
24/7 roadside breakdown assistance | ❌ | N.C. |
Towing to repair facility / Extended towing | ❌ | N.C. |
Assistance from home (0 km) | ❌ | N.C. |
Replacement vehicle | ✅ | Rental vehicle is included while your insured vehicle is repaired or after total loss. |
Alternative transport or accommodation | ❌ | N.C. |
Vehicle repatriation | ❌ | N.C. |
Assistance abroad | ❌ | N.C. |
Assistance for electric vehicles | ❌ | N.C. |
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. |
Customer Reviews of Onlia Car Insurance
Review site | Rating and number of reviews |
---|---|
Trustpilot | 4.5/5 – 3,100 reviews |
We have analyzed the reviews on the above-mentioned sites:
- ✅ The online quote and policy purchase process is described as easy, fast, and straightforward, saving users significant time compared to traditional insurers.
- ✅ The Onlia mobile app and website receive positive feedback for clarity, user-friendliness, and comprehensive self-service options that minimize the need to phone customer service.
- ✅ Premium prices are often considered lower than competitors, and digital documentation is prompt and reliable.
- ✅ Customers appreciate instant policy setup and the ability to manage or modify coverage online at any time.
- ❌ A lack of traditional, easily accessible telephone customer service is mentioned as a downside by clients who prefer human interaction, particularly for claims and support.
- ❌ Some users report delays or confusion regarding claims status updates and express a wish for more proactive communication during the claims process.
- ❌ Occasional technical difficulties with the app or website, especially when submitting claim documents, have been noted.
- ❌ Customers wishing to clarify more complex issues sometimes find it difficult to obtain individualized responses through digital channels.
How to Contact Onlia?
Customer service Onlia | 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. Onlia online: https://www.onlia.ca/insurance/cart |
To report a claim | Submit online through your Onlia account (https://www.onlia.ca/login) or via the Onlia Insurance app. Email: support@onlia.ca |
To request and track a refund | Request via your online Onlia account or contact support@onlia.ca Refunds are processed through the original payment method; reimbursement timeframe is not specified. |
To obtain an insurance certificate | Log in to your Onlia online account to download or request your certificate. Email: support@onlia.ca |
To contact assistance | Email: support@onlia.ca Online support portal: https://onlia.zendesk.com/hc/en-us |
To cancel my contract | Submit your cancellation through your Onlia online account or by email to support@onlia.ca Proof of alternative insurance may be required by your lessor/financer. No penalty; cancellation is effective anytime. |
Onlia online: https://www.onlia.ca/insurance/cart
Email: support@onlia.ca
Refunds are processed through the original payment method; reimbursement timeframe is not specified.
Email: support@onlia.ca
Online support portal: https://onlia.zendesk.com/hc/en-us
Proof of alternative insurance may be required by your lessor/financer.
No penalty; cancellation is effective anytime.
FAQ
Do I have to pay in advance for repairs or assistance with Onlia?
Onlia typically requires you to pay for repairs or towing upfront, and then submit your claim for reimbursement through their digital platform. They do not offer a direct billing option with garages or service providers in most situations. Once your claim is approved, you receive payment for eligible expenses, minus any applicable deductible. Always retain invoices and documentation to support your claim.
How do I cancel my car insurance contract with Onlia?
You can cancel your Onlia car insurance policy at any time by logging into your online account, providing the required details, and submitting a cancellation request; a typical notice period is not enforced, and no specific documents are required unless your finance or lease provider asks for proof of new insurance.
What coverages are included with Onlia car insurance?
Onlia’s policies include all mandatory Ontario coverages such as third-party liability, accident benefits, uninsured automobile, and direct compensation property damage. Standard features also include accident forgiveness, ticket forgiveness, a rental car during repairs, and family protection. You can add or upgrade optional coverages like collision, comprehensive, or increased third-party liability for greater protection.
How do I file a claim with Onlia?
To file a claim, log in to your Onlia account or use the mobile app, fill in the required incident details, and upload relevant photos or documents. Onlia will review your claim digitally and may request additional information if needed. Once approved, you’ll be reimbursed via direct deposit for eligible costs, minus your deductible. The process is streamlined for quick resolution, and you can track claim status online.
Is roadside assistance included with Onlia car insurance?
Onlia does not automatically include roadside assistance in all car insurance policies, but you may add it as an extra option. Roadside assistance can cover towing, battery boosts, lockout service, and fuel delivery, depending on the plan you select. To activate or check this coverage, review your policy online or adjust your options in your Onlia account. Coverage is available 24/7 across Ontario and usually activates immediately after purchase.
Do I have to pay in advance for repairs or assistance with Onlia?
Onlia typically requires you to pay for repairs or towing upfront, and then submit your claim for reimbursement through their digital platform. They do not offer a direct billing option with garages or service providers in most situations. Once your claim is approved, you receive payment for eligible expenses, minus any applicable deductible. Always retain invoices and documentation to support your claim.
How do I cancel my car insurance contract with Onlia?
You can cancel your Onlia car insurance policy at any time by logging into your online account, providing the required details, and submitting a cancellation request; a typical notice period is not enforced, and no specific documents are required unless your finance or lease provider asks for proof of new insurance.
What coverages are included with Onlia car insurance?
Onlia’s policies include all mandatory Ontario coverages such as third-party liability, accident benefits, uninsured automobile, and direct compensation property damage. Standard features also include accident forgiveness, ticket forgiveness, a rental car during repairs, and family protection. You can add or upgrade optional coverages like collision, comprehensive, or increased third-party liability for greater protection.
How do I file a claim with Onlia?
To file a claim, log in to your Onlia account or use the mobile app, fill in the required incident details, and upload relevant photos or documents. Onlia will review your claim digitally and may request additional information if needed. Once approved, you’ll be reimbursed via direct deposit for eligible costs, minus your deductible. The process is streamlined for quick resolution, and you can track claim status online.
Is roadside assistance included with Onlia car insurance?
Onlia does not automatically include roadside assistance in all car insurance policies, but you may add it as an extra option. Roadside assistance can cover towing, battery boosts, lockout service, and fuel delivery, depending on the plan you select. To activate or check this coverage, review your policy online or adjust your options in your Onlia account. Coverage is available 24/7 across Ontario and usually activates immediately after purchase.