RBC Car Insurance Review 2025: Is It Worth It?
Our expert's review on RBC
RBC's car insurance in Ontario presents a highly structured contract, combining legally required coverage with four distinct optional plans: Specified Perils, Comprehensive, Collision, and All Perils. Reimbursement ceilings are scalable above the provincial minimum, while deductibles apply to certain claims like the $300 for identified uninsured motorist damage, and the policy includes a valuable first at-fault accident forgiveness feature.
Positioned as the insurance arm of a major Canadian bank, RBC offers a comprehensive suite of products, though its price point can only be determined through a direct quote, making market comparisons challenging.
This insurance appears most suitable for owners of new cars who can benefit from the waiver of depreciation, and for drivers seeking extensive coverage options like All Perils or the Family Protection Endorsement.
While the policies are underwritten by the reputable Aviva General Insurance Company, the brand's direct customer service receives poor marks, reflected in its Trustpilot score of 1.5/5 from 42 reviews, which often point to slow claims management and communication challenges.
- ✅First at-fault accident forgiveness available
- ✅Depreciation waiver endorsement for new vehicles
- ✅Four distinct optional damage coverage plans
- ✅Family Protection Endorsement option
- ✅Coverage for non-factory electronics up to $1,500
- ✅Loss of use rental car benefit ($900)
- ✅Optional emergency roadside assistance
- ❌Extremely poor customer rating on Trustpilot (1.5/5)
- ❌Reports of severe customer service wait times
- ❌Noted issues with slow claims processing
- ❌Reportedly non-functional online service portal
- ❌Potential for significant premium hikes at renewal
Score- ✅First at-fault accident forgiveness available
- ✅Depreciation waiver endorsement for new vehicles
- ✅Four distinct optional damage coverage plans
- ✅Family Protection Endorsement option
- ✅Coverage for non-factory electronics up to $1,500
- ✅Loss of use rental car benefit ($900)
- ✅Optional emergency roadside assistance
Our expert's review on RBC
- ✅First at-fault accident forgiveness available
- ✅Depreciation waiver endorsement for new vehicles
- ✅Four distinct optional damage coverage plans
- ✅Family Protection Endorsement option
- ✅Coverage for non-factory electronics up to $1,500
- ✅Loss of use rental car benefit ($900)
- ✅Optional emergency roadside assistance
- ❌Extremely poor customer rating on Trustpilot (1.5/5)
- ❌Reports of severe customer service wait times
- ❌Noted issues with slow claims processing
- ❌Reportedly non-functional online service portal
- ❌Potential for significant premium hikes at renewal
Score- ✅First at-fault accident forgiveness available
- ✅Depreciation waiver endorsement for new vehicles
- ✅Four distinct optional damage coverage plans
- ✅Family Protection Endorsement option
- ✅Coverage for non-factory electronics up to $1,500
- ✅Loss of use rental car benefit ($900)
- ✅Optional emergency roadside assistance
Positioned as the insurance arm of a major Canadian bank, RBC offers a comprehensive suite of products, though its price point can only be determined through a direct quote, making market comparisons challenging.
This insurance appears most suitable for owners of new cars who can benefit from the waiver of depreciation, and for drivers seeking extensive coverage options like All Perils or the Family Protection Endorsement.
While the policies are underwritten by the reputable Aviva General Insurance Company, the brand's direct customer service receives poor marks, reflected in its Trustpilot score of 1.5/5 from 42 reviews, which often point to slow claims management and communication challenges.
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The RBC car insurance guarantees
RBC offers several car insurance coverage options that address both mandatory provincial requirements and comprehensive vehicle protection needs. Liability coverage forms the legal minimum and can be customized well above the $200,000 provincial threshold, while accident benefits follow provincial standards, allowing optional upgrades for enhanced medical or income benefits. Property damage, collision/upsent, comprehensive, specified perils, and all perils can be selected à la carte, each with distinct deductibles and coverage conditions; notably, all perils covers household or employee theft, which most base plans exclude.
Noteworthy features include a waiver of depreciation for new vehicles, family protection against underinsured drivers, and first-accident forgiveness, but accessory and electronic coverage is capped and standard policies exclude business use or special equipment by default. Assistance features like medical expense coverage and optional roadside support align with local competitors but personalization is less developed compared to policies from major direct insurers, and most add-ons entail specific eligibility and waiting periods.
| Warranty name | Value for main plan (liability, direct compensation, uninsured auto, accident benefits) | Value for optional coverages (collision, comprehensive, all perils, etc.) |
|---|---|---|
| Formula positioning | Legal minimum and modular add-ons | À la carte: collision, comprehensive, all perils, endorsements |
| Type of cover | Mandatory (per law): liability, DCPD, accident benefits, uninsured auto | Optional: property damage, theft, fire, vandalism, etc. |
| Reimbursement rate (% of damages covered) | Up to 100%, subject to fault assessment and deductibles | Up to 100%, subject to policy wording and deductible |
| Annual reimbursement ceiling | Min. $200,000 (liability); higher limits available | $900 for loss of use after theft; $25,000 for property damage by uninsured driver |
| Policy excess (per claim and/or annually) | Deductibles as low as $0 (liability/benefits); $300 for uninsured property damage | Common deductibles: $500, $1,000, varies for options |
| Waiting period (before certain guarantees) | Applies to alternate transport after theft (72 hours) | Applies to alternate transport after theft (72 hrs) |
| Minimum/maximum age for subscription | NC | NC |
| Prior risk assessment (medical questionnaire, telematics, driving history) | Driving history required, other assessments rarely | Driving history, vehicle inspection for some coverage |
| Payment facilities (monthly, quarterly, annual payments) | Monthly or annual payments | Monthly or annual payments |
| Advance payment of claim-related costs | NC | NC |
| Compensation at purchase value/agreed value/replacement value | Waiver of depreciation endorsement for new vehicles | Replacement value in total loss with premium coverage |
| Third-party liability (bodily injury and property damage to others) | Included: from $200,000 and up | Optional higher limits available |
| Own vehicle damage (collision, regardless of fault) | ❌ | ✅ Collision and All Perils options |
| Theft of vehicle (partial or total) | ❌ | ✅ Comprehensive, Specified Perils, or All Perils |
| Fire (accidental or criminal) | ❌ | ✅ Comprehensive or Specified Perils |
| Broken glass (windscreen, windows, sunroof) | ❌ | ✅ Comprehensive or All Perils |
| Natural disasters (hail, flood, storm, etc.) | ❌ | ✅ Comprehensive or Specified Perils |
| Acts of vandalism | ❌ | ✅ Comprehensive or All Perils |
| All-risks damage (accidents of any cause, including at-fault) | ❌ | ✅ All Perils option |
| Driver personal injury cover (death, disability, medical expenses) | Basic statutory accident benefits (upgradeable) | Coverage may be enhanced by buying optional benefits |
| Passenger injury cover | Included in accident benefits | Optional higher limits |
| Criminal defence and recourse (basic legal aid after an accident) | Included (defence under liability, no extended recourse) | ❌ |
| Extended legal protection (for disputes beyond accidents, e.g., purchase, repairs) | ❌ | ❌ |
| Vehicle accessories and modifications (including electric vehicle batteries and cables) | Up to $1,500 for non-factory electronic equipment | Higher limits with specific endorsement |
| Personal belongings inside the vehicle (excluding cash and documents) | Up to $25 for tapes, CDs | ❌ |
| Child equipment (seats, pushchairs) | NC | NC |
| Replacement vehicle (during repairs or after total loss) | $900 for theft if optional coverage in place | Loss of use for repair: alternate transport benefit; up to $900 |
| Towing and roadside assistance (including out-of-charge recovery for EVs) | Optional emergency roadside plan | Optional emergency roadside plan |
| Use abroad (compliance with minimum local cover; optional full cover abroad) | Adjusts minimum cover to local law | NC |
| Vehicle use for professional/business purposes (where applicable) | ❌ (not covered by default) | Endorsement or special policy needed |
| Driving other vehicles (third-party only or comprehensive, depending on the insurer) | Covered for liability while operating non-owned vehicles | NC |
| Trailer or caravan towing cover | NC | NC |
RBC Insurance: Key Considerations
RBC offers a waiver of depreciation for new vehicles, which can be key for drivers wanting a total loss payout at purchase value.
Claims initiation is available by phone or mail, not via app; some self-service options exist through their online portal, but reports of technical issues are common.
Optional accident forgiveness and family protection endorsements are promoted for added peace of mind.
Roadside assistance is not automatic and must be selected as an add-on.
Business and rideshare use are excluded unless you arrange specific commercial coverage.
RBC Car Insurance Exclusions
RBC car insurance contract exclusions are thorough and align closely with industry standards in Canada. Standout exclusions include strict denial of coverage for losses while using the vehicle for paid passenger transport (except limited ridesharing exceptions) and exclusions for damage when the driver is unauthorized, intoxicated, or excluded by name on the policy.
Notably, losses due to fraud in ownership or changes of ownership—such as trickery or illegal disposal—are excluded, a clause not always detailed as explicitly by competitors. Technical exclusions such as mechanical breakdown, tire damage (unless part of an insured peril), and losses during vehicle rental or leasing to others are prominent. Finally, damage caused by war, nuclear risk, or use of the vehicle to carry explosives is categorically excluded, matching but never broader than similar policies in the market.
| Exclusions | Details |
|---|---|
| Exclusions linked to use of the vehicle |
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| Exclusions linked to drivers |
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| Technical exclusions |
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| Contractual/legal exclusions |
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| Geographical exclusions |
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| Contract-specific limitations |
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- Use as a taxicab, bus, sightseeing vehicle, or carrying paying passengers (except limited carpooling)
- Use of the automobile to transport explosives or radioactive material
- Renting or leasing the vehicle to another person
- Use in races or for illegal activities
- Driven by anyone not authorized by law
- Operation by a person excluded by name on the policy
- Operation without the owner’s consent
- Driving under the influence of intoxicating substances
- Knowledge of uninsured operation
- Mechanical breakdown, rust, corrosion, wear and tear, explosion within engine
- Damage to tires (unless resulting from a covered peril)
- Damage to non-equipment vehicle contents (except as otherwise specified)
- Loss resulting from theft by household members or specific employees (unless All Perils is purchased)
- Loss from fraudulent or trick-based change of ownership
- Loss by a person with legal vehicle possession under agreements (e.g., mortgage, lease)
- Material misrepresentation inducing issuance of the policy
- Claims arising from contamination of property carried in the car
- Conviction of criminal offences involving vehicle operation
- Loss, damage, injury, or death caused by war (e.g., civil war, rebellion) or acts thereof
- Loss or damage by nuclear hazard or radioactive contamination (unless special liability coverage applies)
- Coverage aligns with minimum requirements of the jurisdiction where incident occurs
- Damage to property carried in or upon the automobile
- Damage to other owned or rented property
- Loss in excess of $25 for recorded materials (tapes, CDs, etc.) and associated devices
- Loss to certain electronic accessories above the covered limit (typically $1,500)
- Losses while the vehicle is in care of a business in selling, servicing, or parking cars (unless the business owner is the insured)
The cost of RBC car insurance
RBC tends to occupy a mid-range price position in the Canadian car insurance market, reflecting a balance between comprehensive coverage and moderate deductibles. Its offer is backed by strong optional protections and solid liability limits, ensuring robust support for a range of driver profiles.
RBC is not the cheapest option, especially for young or high-risk drivers, but competitive for mainstream drivers seeking reliable coverage and service via a combination of digital and advisor-based channels.
The absence of a streamlined fully digital experience can leave its rates less agile compared to pure online players, particularly for those prioritizing speed and price over breadth of service.
For demanding profiles or those valuing extensive options, RBC is well-placed but can appear less economical compared to budget-oriented direct insurers.
| Basic formula | Intermediate formula | Premium formula | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Young driver (18–24, compact) | $140/month | $165/month | $205/month |
| Standard driver (35–45, intermediate) | $90/month | $115/month | $145/month |
| Senior driver (60–70, city car) | $78/month | $102/month | $126/month |
| Driver with an at-fault claim (3 yrs) | $150/month | $172/month | $220/month |
| New SUV driver | $110/month | $136/month | $172/month |
| Driver with >25,000km/year | $120/month | $148/month | $178/month |
To get the best rate for your profile, take a minute to compare personalized car insurance quotes online before making your choice:
Compare the best car insurance plans for free!Start comparingRBC Car Insurance Discount Codes
| Promotional codes RBC | Details |
|---|---|
| HelloSafe | -5% on your quote |
Note: promotional codes are subject to change. For the latest promotional codes, go to our comparison of the best car insurance.
RBC reimbursement amount
| Claim or service | Average cost (CA$) | Liability only | Specified perils | Comprehensive | Collision | All perils (highest ceiling) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Replacement after theft | $15,000 | ❌ | Up to $15,000 (excluding excess) | Up to $15,000 (excluding excess) | ❌ | Up to purchase value (excluding excess) |
| Repair after an at-fault accident | $6,000 | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | Up to $6,000 (excluding excess) | Up to purchase value (excluding excess) |
| Windshield repair from stone chip | $400 | ❌ | ❌ | Up to $400 (excluding excess) | ❌ | Up to $400 (excluding excess) |
| Vandalism damage repair | $2,000 | ❌ | ❌ | Up to $2,000 (excluding excess) | ❌ | Up to $2,000 (excluding excess) |
| Alternate transportation after theft | $700 | ❌ | Up to $700 (excluding excess, after 72 hours) | Up to $700 (excluding excess, after 72 hours) | ❌ | Up to $900 (excluding excess, after 72 hours) |
RBC Car Insurance Assistance
RBC's assistance offering includes an optional emergency roadside and driver assistance program, covering towing to a repair facility and immediate support after a breakdown or accident. Assistance is not automatically provided for all policyholders, so those seeking 24/7 help for battery, flat tire, or mechanical failures must explicitly add this coverage. A replacement vehicle is only available in cases of theft or for certain covered losses, but not for all breakdown situations.
Notably, there are no included benefits for alternative accommodation, extended support abroad, or specific help for electric vehicles. Key recovery, animal support, or legal assistance services are not documented among the core or optional offerings, representing notable gaps for demanding clients.
| Support RBC | Availability | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 24/7 roadside breakdown assistance | ✅ | Included if optional emergency roadside assistance is purchased. Covers mechanical and electrical failures. |
| Towing to repair facility / Extended towing | ✅ | Towing to a garage provided if optional emergency assistance is added. Extended towing may be limited by program terms. |
| Assistance from home (0 km) | ✅ | Roadside assistance starts at home if cover is purchased. No mileage threshold applies. |
| Replacement vehicle | ✅ | Provided for theft or covered total loss. Not offered for simple breakdowns or all incidents. |
| Alternative transport or accommodation | ❌ | Not covered. No provision for hotel or alternate travel after a breakdown or incident. |
| Vehicle repatriation | ❌ | Not covered. No service for bringing vehicle back from abroad or long distances. |
| Assistance abroad | ❌ | Not covered. Program limits apply to Canada and possibly the USA only. Foreign recovery is not included. |
| Assistance for electric vehicles | ❌ | No dedicated support or EV-specific service is documented. |
| Battery assistance & fuel misfuelling | ✅ | Battery jumpstarts and fuel delivery included if optional assistance added. No fuel misfuelling coverage documented. |
| Legal assistance after an accident | ❌ | Not included. Legal defence and recourse are not listed as part of assistance services. |
| Assistance for animals on board | ❌ | Not covered. No pet-specific transport or support on breakdown. |
| Key recovery & lock replacement | ❌ | Not provided. No coverage for lost keys or lock changes within assistance options. |
Covers mechanical and electrical failures.
Extended towing may be limited by program terms.
No mileage threshold applies.
Not offered for simple breakdowns or all incidents.
No service for bringing vehicle back from abroad or long distances.
Foreign recovery is not included.
No fuel misfuelling coverage documented.
An Overview of Customer Feedback on RBC Car Insurance
| Review site | Rating and number of reviews |
|---|---|
| Trustpilot | 1.5 out of 5 stars (42 reviews) |
- ✅ A policy with a well-detailed set of mandatory and optional benefits is cited as comprehensive by some clients.
- ✅ There are reports of certain positive claims outcomes and solid contractual protections provided by RBC.
- ❌ A frequent customer complaint relates to extreme wait times for phone-based customer service and the unreliability of the callback system.
- ❌ Many reviewers mention significant hikes in premiums at renewal, especially post-claim, and inconsistent or unexpected changes in quoted rates.
- ❌ Several policyholders report slow claims processing, administrative inefficiencies, and inaccurate policy documentation.
- ❌ There is broad dissatisfaction with the non-functional online portal and the inability to access preferred digital services, resulting in reliance on problematic phone service.
- ❌ Policy or coverage cancellations for minor administrative issues, such as a single missed payment, are a source of frustration for many clients.
How to Contact RBC?
| Customer service RBC | 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 official RBC quotes: Phone 1-877-749-7224. |
| To report a claim | Phone 1-800-769-2526 (RBC general claims). Claims must be notified in person or by registered mail to: P.O. Box 5010 Station A, Mississauga, ON L5A 4L2. |
| To request and track a refund | Call 1-888-885-5915 (Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm ET) for ongoing claim or refund tracking. Documents typically required: completed claim form, proof of loss, estimates/receipts. Refund by cheque or direct deposit, average time varies depending on claim type. |
| To obtain an insurance certificate | Contact 1-888-885-5915 (Existing Policy Service) or use the RBC Online Insurance portal for certificate requests. |
| To contact assistance | Call 1-800-769-2526 (24/7 roadside and claims) or request through the Online Insurance portal if you have added the Emergency Roadside and Driver Assistance option. |
| To cancel my contract | Send a written cancellation request with your policy number, preferred cancellation date, and signature by registered mail to: P.O. Box 5010 Station A, Mississauga, ON L5A 4L2. Attach proof of new insurance (if applicable). Recommended notice: at least 30 days in advance. |
Claims must be notified in person or by registered mail to: P.O. Box 5010 Station A, Mississauga, ON L5A 4L2.
Documents typically required: completed claim form, proof of loss, estimates/receipts.
Refund by cheque or direct deposit, average time varies depending on claim type.
Attach proof of new insurance (if applicable).
Recommended notice: at least 30 days in advance.
FAQ
Do I have to pay in advance for repairs or assistance with RBC?
RBC generally reimburses costs after a claim is approved, so you might have to pay repair shops or roadside assistance upfront. Some authorized repair facilities may offer direct billing, but this is not always guaranteed. Keep all receipts and documents to submit with your claim. Claims are processed after review and approval, leading to a refund or direct payment in some cases. Always confirm with RBC before starting repairs or services.
How do I cancel my car insurance contract with RBC?
To cancel your car insurance with RBC, send a written notice with your policy details and signature, preferably at least 30 days in advance. Attach proof of new insurance if required. Submit your request by registered mail to the RBC Insurance address provided in your documentation. You may also call customer service for guidance on the process and required documents. A formal confirmation of cancellation will be returned to you once processed.
What coverages are included in a standard RBC car insurance policy?
RBC car insurance includes mandatory coverages such as third-party liability, accident benefits, uninsured automobile protection, and direct compensation for property damage. Optional coverages like collision, comprehensive, specified perils, and all perils are available for broader protection. You can also add endorsements such as forgiveness for your first at-fault accident and family protection. Policyholders may customize their contracts to suit personal needs and risk profile. Always check your specific policy for detailed coverage.
How do I report a claim and what documents do I need?
You can report a claim with RBC by calling 1-800-769-2526 or sending a registered letter to the head office. To process your claim, you'll generally need a completed claim form, proof of loss, police reports (if applicable), and repair estimates or invoices. RBC will provide guidance on the exact documentation based on your situation. Processing starts after all documents are submitted. Keep copies of everything for your own records.
Does RBC offer roadside assistance or towing coverage?
Roadside assistance and towing are not automatically included and are available only if you add the comprehensive emergency roadside and driver assistance option. This add-on can cover towing, battery boost, fuel delivery, lockout, and more, but limits and conditions apply. Coverage usually starts from your home and is available 24/7 in covered zones. Check your contract or contact RBC to confirm if you have this protection and learn about its details. It is recommended to have assistance contact details handy when traveling.
What happens if I miss a premium payment on my RBC policy?
If you miss a premium payment, RBC may contact you to arrange payment within a grace period. Persistent non-payment could result in policy cancellation, typically after a formal notice is issued. A single missed payment may cause a temporary lapse in coverage and administrative fees could apply. To avoid cancellation, resolve outstanding balances promptly and communicate with RBC if you anticipate issues. Reinstatement after cancellation is possible in some cases, but subject to review and new underwriting.
Do I have to pay in advance for repairs or assistance with RBC?
RBC generally reimburses costs after a claim is approved, so you might have to pay repair shops or roadside assistance upfront. Some authorized repair facilities may offer direct billing, but this is not always guaranteed. Keep all receipts and documents to submit with your claim. Claims are processed after review and approval, leading to a refund or direct payment in some cases. Always confirm with RBC before starting repairs or services.
How do I cancel my car insurance contract with RBC?
To cancel your car insurance with RBC, send a written notice with your policy details and signature, preferably at least 30 days in advance. Attach proof of new insurance if required. Submit your request by registered mail to the RBC Insurance address provided in your documentation. You may also call customer service for guidance on the process and required documents. A formal confirmation of cancellation will be returned to you once processed.
What coverages are included in a standard RBC car insurance policy?
RBC car insurance includes mandatory coverages such as third-party liability, accident benefits, uninsured automobile protection, and direct compensation for property damage. Optional coverages like collision, comprehensive, specified perils, and all perils are available for broader protection. You can also add endorsements such as forgiveness for your first at-fault accident and family protection. Policyholders may customize their contracts to suit personal needs and risk profile. Always check your specific policy for detailed coverage.
How do I report a claim and what documents do I need?
You can report a claim with RBC by calling 1-800-769-2526 or sending a registered letter to the head office. To process your claim, you'll generally need a completed claim form, proof of loss, police reports (if applicable), and repair estimates or invoices. RBC will provide guidance on the exact documentation based on your situation. Processing starts after all documents are submitted. Keep copies of everything for your own records.
Does RBC offer roadside assistance or towing coverage?
Roadside assistance and towing are not automatically included and are available only if you add the comprehensive emergency roadside and driver assistance option. This add-on can cover towing, battery boost, fuel delivery, lockout, and more, but limits and conditions apply. Coverage usually starts from your home and is available 24/7 in covered zones. Check your contract or contact RBC to confirm if you have this protection and learn about its details. It is recommended to have assistance contact details handy when traveling.
What happens if I miss a premium payment on my RBC policy?
If you miss a premium payment, RBC may contact you to arrange payment within a grace period. Persistent non-payment could result in policy cancellation, typically after a formal notice is issued. A single missed payment may cause a temporary lapse in coverage and administrative fees could apply. To avoid cancellation, resolve outstanding balances promptly and communicate with RBC if you anticipate issues. Reinstatement after cancellation is possible in some cases, but subject to review and new underwriting.
