Pafco Car Insurance Review 2025: Is It Right For You?
Our expert's review on Pafco
Pafco car insurance carves out a specific niche in Canada, offering a lifeline to drivers who don't qualify for the standard insurance marketplace. Its formulas are built around core mandatory coverages, with options for Collision and Comprehensive, while deductibles can be adjusted. A key prevention feature is the My_BRIDGE telematics program, which only offers discounts for safe driving, and for Quebec policyholders, roadside assistance with a 20km towing limit is automatically included.
Compared to mainstream insurers, Pafco's strength is not price but accessibility, providing an essential service for higher-risk drivers who might otherwise be uninsured. Pafco is therefore almost exclusively suitable for drivers with a history of claims or other risk factors that make them ineligible for standard policies.
While specific figures on premium volume or customer review scores are not published, Pafco demonstrates reliability through a structured claims system, including dedicated advisors and a Priority Repair Option (PRO) network that guarantees repairs for as long as you own the vehicle.
- ✅Coverage access for non-standard and high-risk drivers
- ✅My_BRIDGE telematics with no risk of premium increase
- ✅Guaranteed repairs via Priority Repair Option (PRO) network
- ✅Roadside Assistance included on Quebec policies
- ✅Accident Forgiveness coverage may be available
- ✅No default deductible for Direct Compensation Property Damage
- ❌Likely higher premiums than standard market insurers
- ❌Insurance access only through a broker
- ❌Roadside Assistance limited to the province of Quebec
- ❌Towing assistance limited to a 20km distance
- ❌No public information on rates or customer satisfaction
Score- ✅Coverage access for non-standard and high-risk drivers
- ✅My_BRIDGE telematics with no risk of premium increase
- ✅Guaranteed repairs via Priority Repair Option (PRO) network
- ✅Roadside Assistance included on Quebec policies
- ✅Accident Forgiveness coverage may be available
- ✅No default deductible for Direct Compensation Property Damage
Our expert's review on Pafco
- ✅Coverage access for non-standard and high-risk drivers
- ✅My_BRIDGE telematics with no risk of premium increase
- ✅Guaranteed repairs via Priority Repair Option (PRO) network
- ✅Roadside Assistance included on Quebec policies
- ✅Accident Forgiveness coverage may be available
- ✅No default deductible for Direct Compensation Property Damage
- ❌Likely higher premiums than standard market insurers
- ❌Insurance access only through a broker
- ❌Roadside Assistance limited to the province of Quebec
- ❌Towing assistance limited to a 20km distance
- ❌No public information on rates or customer satisfaction
Score- ✅Coverage access for non-standard and high-risk drivers
- ✅My_BRIDGE telematics with no risk of premium increase
- ✅Guaranteed repairs via Priority Repair Option (PRO) network
- ✅Roadside Assistance included on Quebec policies
- ✅Accident Forgiveness coverage may be available
- ✅No default deductible for Direct Compensation Property Damage
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The Pafco car insurance guarantees
Pafco focuses on providing car insurance primarily to higher-risk drivers who may not qualify for standard market coverage, offering mandatory protections like third-party liability, direct compensation property damage (DCPD), accident benefits, and uninsured automobile coverage.
Optional modules include collision, comprehensive, loss of use, and in Quebec, automatic roadside assistance (up to 3 events per year), while the My_BRIDGE telematics app offers only premium discounts for demonstrated safe driving.
Deductibles vary according to customer selection, and DCPD claims carry no deductible by default unless otherwise chosen; direct repair partners guarantee work quality for the life of the vehicle.
Pafco’s policies are typical of non-standard insurers in Canada, with core coverages mirroring legal and industry requirements but placing greater emphasis on accessibility and essential features over advanced or customizable endorsements.
Limitations include a lack of broad optional features such as extended legal cover or accessory insurance, and many specific values such as reimbursement ceilings or excess amounts are not communicated publicly.
| Warranty name | Pafco Car Insurance Coverage (a la carte & by province) |
|---|---|
| Formula positioning | Non-standard market; mandatory and à la carte options |
| Type of cover | Third-party liability, DCPD, accident benefits, uninsured auto |
| Reimbursement rate (% of damages covered) | NC |
| Annual reimbursement ceiling (maximum amount reimbursed per year) | NC |
| Policy excess (per claim and/or annually) | Varies by cover and client; stated in policy |
| Waiting period (before certain guarantees take effect) | NC |
| Minimum/maximum age for subscription | NC |
| Prior risk assessment (medical questionnaire, telematics, driving history) | Driving record required; My_BRIDGE telematics discount optional |
| Payment facilities (monthly, quarterly, annual payments) | Monthly or annual through broker |
| Advance payment of claim-related costs | Repairs paid direct or reimbursed by insurer |
| Compensation at purchase value/agreed value/replacement value | Actual cash value on total loss; terms in policy |
| Third-party liability (bodily injury and property damage to others) | ✅ Mandatory; amount selected by client |
| Own vehicle damage (collision, regardless of fault) | ✅ Optional collision coverage |
| Theft of vehicle (partial or total) | ✅ Optional comprehensive coverage |
| Fire (accidental or criminal) | ✅ Optional comprehensive coverage |
| Broken glass (windscreen, windows, sunroof) | ✅ Included under comprehensive; details may vary |
| Natural disasters (hail, flood, storm, etc.) | ✅ Included under comprehensive |
| Acts of vandalism | ✅ Included under comprehensive |
| All-risks damage (accidents of any cause, including at-fault) | ✅ If both collision and comprehensive are chosen |
| Driver personal injury cover (death, disability, medical expenses) | ✅ Standard accident benefits included |
| Passenger injury cover | ✅ Standard accident benefits included |
| 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) | ✅ Optional loss of use or included with DCPD (not at fault) |
| Towing and roadside assistance (including out-of-charge recovery for EVs) | ✅ Quebec only; 3 events per period, up to 20km; limits apply |
| Use abroad (compliance with minimum local cover; optional full cover abroad) | NC |
| Vehicle use for professional/business purposes (where applicable) | ❌ Commercial/business not covered; personal use only |
| Driving other vehicles (third-party only or comprehensive, depending on the insurer) | NC |
| Trailer or caravan towing cover | ❌ Not covered for roadside assistance |
Good to know
Pafco policyholders in Quebec get roadside assistance included by default, while the My_BRIDGE telematics app enables safe drivers to earn discounts but won’t increase premiums. Claims can be reported online or via brokers, and repairs done at approved shops are guaranteed for as long as you own the car.
Car insurance exclusions
Pafco’s car insurance exclusions largely follow standard practice in Canada, with some notable operational nuances for certain services. For example, roadside assistance is only available in Quebec and excludes motorcycles, snowmobiles, trailers, and commercial vehicles, which distinguishes Pafco from competitors who may offer broader assistance. DCPD coverage does not apply to hit-and-run scenarios, requiring optional modules for comprehensive at-fault or unidentified-event protection.
Standard exclusions apply to damage resulting from intentional acts, racing, unlicensed driving, and illegal vehicle use. The towing benefit under roadside assistance is limited to 20km per event, with additional charges for greater distances and a maximum of three service events per insurance period.
| Exclusions | Details |
|---|---|
| Exclusions linked to the use of the vehicle |
|
| Exclusions linked to the driver |
|
| Technical exclusions |
|
| Geographical exclusions |
|
| Contractual exclusions |
|
- Damage during racing, competitions, illegal or commercial use
- No roadside assistance for commercial vehicles, motorcycles, snowmobiles, or trailers
- Claims not covered for unlicensed drivers
- Intentional acts are excluded
- Claims while impaired not covered
- DCPD does not cover hit-and-runs or all not-at-fault accidents
- Limit of 20km towing per event, up to 3 times per year
- Roadside assistance: only valid in Quebec; not available in other provinces
- Standard policy exclusions apply (N.C.)
The cost of Pafco car insurance
Pafco positions itself as an economical but limited option within the Canadian car insurance market, serving higher-risk drivers who may not qualify with standard insurers.
Its rates are typically lower for basic, mandatory coverage, but comprehensive or optional protections may be more expensive—and deductibles can be on the higher side—compared to mainstream providers.
Unlike digital-first insurers, Pafco operates through the traditional broker channel, which may result in slightly higher administrative costs but offers personal service for complex situations.
Coverage ceilings and included features are generally sufficient for non-standard risks, but the absence of extensive digital discounts or exclusive online features makes it less attractive for tech-savvy, low-risk customers.
Overall, Pafco fills a practical niche but is most competitive for those who have trouble obtaining coverage elsewhere, rather than for drivers seeking the broadest possible protection or digital convenience.
| Pafco Basic | Pafco Standard | Pafco Comprehensive | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Young driver (18-24, compact) | $137/month | $154/month | $169/month |
| Standard driver (35-45, mid) | $87/month | $102/month | $117/month |
| Senior driver (60-70, city car) | $71/month | $83/month | $99/month |
| At-fault claim (last 3 yrs) | $155/month | $169/month | $187/month |
| New SUV driver | $114/month | $129/month | $144/month |
| >25,000 km/year | $121/month | $135/month | $155/month |
For the best deal on car insurance, always compare rates and coverage options before choosing your provider:
Compare the best car insurance plans for free!Start comparingPafco car insurance discount codes
| Promotional codes Pafco | Details |
|---|---|
| HelloSafe | -5% on your quote |
Note: promotional codes are subject to change. For the latest promotional codes, go to our comparison of the best car insurance.
The reimbursement amount with Pafco
| Name of claim or service | Average price (CA$) | Third-party liability/DCPD coverage | Collision coverage | Comprehensive coverage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Replacement after theft | $12,000 | ❌ | ❌ | Up to actual cash value (excluding excess). Out-of-pocket expenses: deductible applies |
| Repair after at-fault accident | $5,500 | ❌ | Up to actual cash value (excluding excess). Out-of-pocket expenses: deductible applies | ❌ |
| Repair after not at-fault accident | $4,700 | Up to actual cash value (no deductible by default). Out-of-pocket expenses: usually $0 | ❌ | ❌ |
| Windshield or glass repair | $500 | ❌ | Up to actual cash value (excluding excess). Out-of-pocket expenses: deductible applies | Up to actual cash value (excluding excess). Out-of-pocket expenses: deductible applies |
| Roadside assistance (Quebec only) | $120 (per event) | Covered up to 3 events per policy period. Out-of-pocket expenses: only if service exceeds limits | Covered up to 3 events per policy period. Out-of-pocket expenses: only if service exceeds limits | Covered up to 3 events per policy period. Out-of-pocket expenses: only if service exceeds limits |
Out-of-pocket expenses: deductible applies
Out-of-pocket expenses: deductible applies
Out-of-pocket expenses: usually $0
Out-of-pocket expenses: deductible applies
Out-of-pocket expenses: deductible applies
Out-of-pocket expenses: only if service exceeds limits
Out-of-pocket expenses: only if service exceeds limits
Out-of-pocket expenses: only if service exceeds limits
Pafco Car Insurance Assistance
Pafco’s auto insurance assistance offer is focused primarily on roadside support for Quebec policyholders, which is included by default and features towing, battery jump-start, tire change, gas delivery, and help for lost or broken keys, but only up to three events per policy period.
Coverage for towing is limited to 20km—the customer must pay the difference for longer distances, which may be restrictive in rural or remote regions.
There is no provision for alternative transport, accommodation, or replacement vehicle as part of the standard offer, which limits support after a breakdown or accident.
Assistance for electric vehicles or coverage abroad is not detailed, potentially impacting holders of newer vehicle types or those planning cross-border travel.
Legal assistance, specialized animal transport, and lock/key recovery beyond Quebec’s basic service are not mentioned, indicating notable gaps compared to some market competitors.
| Support Pafco | Availability | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 24/7 roadside breakdown assistance | ✅ | Available only in Quebec, included for private passenger vehicles. |
| Towing to repair facility / Extended towing | ✅ | Towing included up to 20km per event; 3 events per policy period; extra cost beyond 20km. |
| Assistance from home (0 km) | ✅ | Assistance is provided regardless of breakdown location within Quebec policy limits. |
| Replacement vehicle | ❌ | No replacement vehicle is provided under standard roadside assistance. |
| Alternative transport or accommodation | ❌ | No coverage for hotel, transport, or travel continuation is provided. |
| Vehicle repatriation | ❌ | No provision for vehicle return after cross-border breakdown or accident. |
| Assistance abroad | ❌ | No international breakdown or towing support detailed beyond Canada and the continental US. |
| Assistance for electric vehicles | ❌ | No specific support for electric vehicles or out-of-charge situations is communicated. |
| Battery assistance & fuel misfuelling | ✅ | Jump-start and gas delivery (up to 5L) are included; no mention of support for misfuelling. |
| Legal assistance after an accident | ❌ | No legal defence or legal recourse support is mentioned in assistance offerings. |
| Assistance for animals on board | ❌ | No coverage or arrangements for pets during breakdown or accident. |
| Key recovery & lock replacement | ✅ | Help is provided for lost or broken keys as part of roadside package in Quebec. |
Customer Reviews of Pafco Car Insurance
| Review site | Rating and number of reviews |
|---|---|
| Trustpilot | 1.3 / 5 – 134 reviews |
Here are the pros and cons highlighted by Pafco car insurance clients:
✅ The company is willing to insure higher-risk drivers or those declined by other mainstream insurers.
✅ Some customers mention that basic required coverage is consistently provided as promised.
✅ A few reviewers highlight the usefulness of the My_BRIDGE telematics program for obtaining premium discounts based on driving behaviour.
❌ There are frequent complaints about poor communication and a lack of responsiveness from customer service and claims departments.
❌ Many clients express frustration with significant premium increases at renewal, sometimes without clear justification.
❌ Several users report slow or complicated claims handling, with repeated requests for additional documentation.
❌ Dissatisfaction is often voiced regarding billing errors, car policy cancellations, or a lack of flexibility when changes are needed.
Here's a pretty unhappy customer feedback on the insurer:
- “Everything about this company is ridiculous… Insurance prices are the lowest compared to everyone else for a reason… because when they need to do their job, nothing works.” by anonymous, on InsurEye, date unspecified.
How to contact Pafco?
| Customer service Pafco | 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 inquiries, contact your insurance broker or email websitecontactus@pembridge.com. |
| To report a claim | Contact your broker or call Pafco at Ontario Toll Free: 1-877-216-6973, Atlantic Toll Free: 1-866-500-5074, or Quebec Toll Free: 1-800-361-2886. You can submit claims online or by mail at 27 Allstate Parkway, Suite 100, Markham, Ontario, L3R 5P8. |
| To request and track a refund | Reach out to your broker directly or email websitecontactus@pembridge.com with your policy details and supporting documents. Refunds are typically processed by direct deposit or cheque within a few weeks of approval. |
| To obtain an insurance certificate | Request your insurance certificate from your broker or by emailing websitecontactus@pembridge.com, providing your policy number and full name. Certificates can be sent to you electronically or by mail, according to your preference. |
| To contact assistance | For roadside assistance in Quebec, call 1-844-533-0134 (available 24/7/365). For other assistance or policy questions, contact your broker or email websitecontactus@pembridge.com. |
| To cancel my contract | Contact your broker directly to request cancellation, providing your policy number and reason for termination. Notice period and supporting documents may be required; written notice can be mailed to 27 Allstate Parkway, Suite 100, Markham, Ontario, L3R 5P8. |
FAQ
Do I have to pay in advance for repairs or assistance with Pafco?
If you use a Pafco Priority Repair Option (PRO) shop, payment for covered repairs is generally handled directly between Pafco and the repair facility, and you are only responsible for your deductible or any portions not covered. For towing and roadside assistance (Quebec only), approved service providers bill Pafco directly for eligible services within coverage limits; for services beyond coverage, you may need to pay out-of-pocket.
How do I cancel my car insurance contract with Pafco?
To cancel your Pafco car insurance, contact your broker with your policy details, provide written notice (usually at least 30 days in advance), and submit any requested documents; proof of new coverage may also be required if switching insurers.
Who is eligible for Pafco car insurance?
Pafco primarily serves higher-risk drivers or those who have difficulty obtaining insurance elsewhere due to past tickets, accidents, lapses in coverage, or other risk factors. If you have been declined by mainstream insurers, you may qualify for a Pafco policy by applying through a licensed insurance broker.
What optional coverages or discounts are available with Pafco?
You can add options such as collision, comprehensive, loss of use, and accident forgiveness to your policy, depending on your needs. Pafco also offers the My_BRIDGE telematics program, which rewards safe driving with discounts, and you may benefit from other standard savings like multi-vehicle discounts.
How do I file a claim and what should I prepare?
To file a claim, contact your broker or call the toll-free Pafco claims number for your region. You should have your policy number, accident details, involved parties’ contact information, and any supporting documents, such as police reports or photos, ready. A dedicated claims advisor will guide you through the process and outline any additional documentation required.
Is roadside assistance automatically included with my policy?
Roadside assistance is included only with new private passenger vehicle policies in Quebec. The service offers up to three events per insurance period and includes towing (within 20 km), jump-starts, tire changes, winching, gas delivery, and key help. After three incidents or for services outside of coverage, you will need to pay the service provider directly.
Do I have to pay in advance for repairs or assistance with Pafco?
If you use a Pafco Priority Repair Option (PRO) shop, payment for covered repairs is generally handled directly between Pafco and the repair facility, and you are only responsible for your deductible or any portions not covered. For towing and roadside assistance (Quebec only), approved service providers bill Pafco directly for eligible services within coverage limits; for services beyond coverage, you may need to pay out-of-pocket.
How do I cancel my car insurance contract with Pafco?
To cancel your Pafco car insurance, contact your broker with your policy details, provide written notice (usually at least 30 days in advance), and submit any requested documents; proof of new coverage may also be required if switching insurers.
Who is eligible for Pafco car insurance?
Pafco primarily serves higher-risk drivers or those who have difficulty obtaining insurance elsewhere due to past tickets, accidents, lapses in coverage, or other risk factors. If you have been declined by mainstream insurers, you may qualify for a Pafco policy by applying through a licensed insurance broker.
What optional coverages or discounts are available with Pafco?
You can add options such as collision, comprehensive, loss of use, and accident forgiveness to your policy, depending on your needs. Pafco also offers the My_BRIDGE telematics program, which rewards safe driving with discounts, and you may benefit from other standard savings like multi-vehicle discounts.
How do I file a claim and what should I prepare?
To file a claim, contact your broker or call the toll-free Pafco claims number for your region. You should have your policy number, accident details, involved parties’ contact information, and any supporting documents, such as police reports or photos, ready. A dedicated claims advisor will guide you through the process and outline any additional documentation required.
Is roadside assistance automatically included with my policy?
Roadside assistance is included only with new private passenger vehicle policies in Quebec. The service offers up to three events per insurance period and includes towing (within 20 km), jump-starts, tire changes, winching, gas delivery, and key help. After three incidents or for services outside of coverage, you will need to pay the service provider directly.
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