What is Wawanesa car insurance worth? 2025 review
Our expert's review on Wawanesa
Wawanesa car insurance offers a robust and highly customizable framework, built around mandatory provincial coverages and a wide array of optional protections. Policies feature adjustable limits and deductibles for tailored financial protection, supported by prevention-focused discounts like the 'Drive Change' telematics program in Ontario.
Positioned against major Canadian insurers, Wawanesa leverages its mutual company structure and broker network to deliver competitive, personalized value, particularly for those bundling policies.
This insurance is particularly well-suited for drivers seeking comprehensive coverage with expert broker guidance, safe drivers, and clients who can benefit from multi-product discounts.
As a mutual insurer owned by its policyholders, Wawanesa operates on a foundation of trust, though no public data on premium volume or Trustpilot ratings is available; claims are managed 24/7 via phone or an online portal, with reimbursement times following standard industry practices.
- ✅Highly customizable coverage with broker support
- ✅Mutual company structure owned by policyholders
- ✅Multiple discounts (bundling, anti-theft, snow tires)
- ✅Telematics program for safe driver savings in Ontario
- ✅Comprehensive options like new vehicle replacement
- ✅24/7 claims reporting via phone or online portal
- ✅Optional legal expense and roadside protection
- ❌Quotes available only through a broker
- ❌No direct online purchasing or pricing
- ❌Telematics discounts not available in all provinces
- ❌Roadside assistance as an optional add-on
- ❌Full policy details require broker contact
Score- ✅Highly customizable coverage with broker support
- ✅Mutual company structure owned by policyholders
- ✅Multiple discounts (bundling, anti-theft, snow tires)
- ✅Telematics program for safe driver savings in Ontario
- ✅Comprehensive options like new vehicle replacement
- ✅24/7 claims reporting via phone or online portal
- ✅Optional legal expense and roadside protection
Our expert's review on Wawanesa
- ✅Highly customizable coverage with broker support
- ✅Mutual company structure owned by policyholders
- ✅Multiple discounts (bundling, anti-theft, snow tires)
- ✅Telematics program for safe driver savings in Ontario
- ✅Comprehensive options like new vehicle replacement
- ✅24/7 claims reporting via phone or online portal
- ✅Optional legal expense and roadside protection
- ❌Quotes available only through a broker
- ❌No direct online purchasing or pricing
- ❌Telematics discounts not available in all provinces
- ❌Roadside assistance as an optional add-on
- ❌Full policy details require broker contact
Score- ✅Highly customizable coverage with broker support
- ✅Mutual company structure owned by policyholders
- ✅Multiple discounts (bundling, anti-theft, snow tires)
- ✅Telematics program for safe driver savings in Ontario
- ✅Comprehensive options like new vehicle replacement
- ✅24/7 claims reporting via phone or online portal
- ✅Optional legal expense and roadside protection
Positioned against major Canadian insurers, Wawanesa leverages its mutual company structure and broker network to deliver competitive, personalized value, particularly for those bundling policies.
This insurance is particularly well-suited for drivers seeking comprehensive coverage with expert broker guidance, safe drivers, and clients who can benefit from multi-product discounts.
As a mutual insurer owned by its policyholders, Wawanesa operates on a foundation of trust, though no public data on premium volume or Trustpilot ratings is available; claims are managed 24/7 via phone or an online portal, with reimbursement times following standard industry practices.
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.
Wawanesa Car Insurance Guarantees
Wawanesa offers Canadian drivers standardized auto insurance with required coverages such as third-party liability, accident benefits, uninsured automobile protection, and direct compensation-property damage, plus a wide choice of optional modules including collision, comprehensive, specified perils, and all perils, as well as value-added endorsements like replacement cost, limited depreciation waiver, and family protection.
Benefit limits and deductibles are flexible and can be tailored per policyholder in consultation with a broker; coverage for theft, fire, vandalism, and natural events requires the relevant optional module selected.
Notably, Wawanesa’s legal expense and enhanced roadside options go beyond basic market norms, while multi-vehicle, bundling, and telematics-driven discounts contribute to competitive pricing. Some limitations exist for non-disclosure of exclusions, new vehicle benefits by time/mileage, and the lack of public detail on annual reimbursement ceilings or eligibility criteria. All claims, policy management, and broker communications follow established standards, with digital tracking and 24/7 phone support for assistance.
| Warranty name | Wawanesa standard & optional coverages |
|---|---|
| Formula positioning | Provincial legal minimum plus customizable à la carte add-ons via broker |
| Type of cover | Mandatory: liability, accident benefits, uninsured, DCPD; optional: collision, comprehensive, specified/all perils |
| Reimbursement rate (% of damages covered) | Up to policy/deductible limit; 100% when at fault is covered and per module |
| Annual reimbursement ceiling (maximum amount reimbursed per year) | NC |
| Policy excess (per claim and/or annually) | Usually $500–$1,000 typical, set in consultation with broker |
| Waiting period (before certain guarantees take effect) | None standard; specified per module if applicable |
| Minimum/maximum age for subscription | NC |
| Prior risk assessment (medical questionnaire, telematics, driving history) | Driving record, vehicle, location; optional telematics in some provinces |
| Payment facilities (monthly, quarterly, annual payments) | Monthly, annual, other options set with broker |
| Advance payment of claim-related costs | NC |
| Compensation at purchase value/agreed value/replacement value | Actual cash value; waiver of depreciation or new replacement by endorsement |
| Third-party liability (bodily injury and property damage to others) | Minimum $200,000 or as required by province; higher limits available |
| Own vehicle damage (collision, regardless of fault) | Optional; covers collision/upset loss, subject to deductible |
| Theft of vehicle (partial or total) | Optional; under comprehensive, specified perils, or all perils modules |
| Fire (accidental or criminal) | Optional; under comprehensive, specified perils, or all perils modules |
| Broken glass (windscreen, windows, sunroof) | Optional; covered under comprehensive or all perils; may require endorsement |
| Natural disasters (hail, flood, storm, etc.) | Optional; under specified perils, comprehensive, or all perils |
| Acts of vandalism | Optional; under comprehensive or all perils |
| All-risks damage (accidents of any cause, including at-fault) | Optional; requires all perils module |
| Driver personal injury cover (death, disability, medical expenses) | Included; accident benefits section mandatory per jurisdiction |
| Passenger injury cover | Included; accident benefits covers all occupants by default |
| Criminal defence and recourse (basic legal aid after an accident) | Included, with optional legal expense coverage module for broader disputes |
| Extended legal protection (for disputes beyond accidents, e.g. purchase, repairs) | Optional legal expense coverage module available |
| Vehicle accessories and modifications (including electric vehicle batteries and cables) | NC |
| Personal belongings inside the vehicle (excluding cash and documents) | NC; usually excluded or covered by home insurance |
| Child equipment (seats, pushchairs) | NC |
| Replacement vehicle (during repairs or after total loss) | Optional transportation replacement/rental add-on covers this |
| Towing and roadside assistance (including out-of-charge recovery for EVs) | Optional enhanced roadside protection module covers this |
| Use abroad (compliance with minimum local cover; optional full cover abroad) | Standard: validity in Canada and USA; broader: NC |
| Vehicle use for professional/business purposes (where applicable) | NC; commercial or ridesharing use requires endorsement |
| Driving other vehicles (third-party only or comprehensive, depending on the insurer) | Optional legal liability for non-owned vehicle (rental/borrowed) |
| Trailer or caravan towing cover | NC; endorsement may be available, check with broker |
NC = Not communicated. Details for certain features may be province- or policy-specific. All customization is subject to insurer/broker documentation and approval.
Good to know
Wawanesa policies are managed through independent brokers, offering personalized service and a mutual ownership structure; claims can be tracked online through the Claims Central portal and managed by phone 24/7. Eligible drivers in some provinces can access telematics discounts via the Drive Change program, and comprehensive policy wording—including exclusions, limits, and eligibility—can be downloaded directly from the insurer’s website or requested through your broker.
Car Insurance Exclusions
Wawanesa car insurance typically excludes claims resulting from illegal use of the vehicle, such as racing, criminal activity, or commercial use without the proper endorsement. Damage caused by wear and tear, mechanical breakdown, or unapproved vehicle modifications is not covered.
Claims are denied for losses occurring outside Canada and the USA unless expressly endorsed in the policy, which is stricter than some competitors who may extend coverage upon request. Theft by a household member is not covered unless you choose All Perils coverage. Losses while the vehicle is used for ride-sharing or delivery services without a specific commercial endorsement are also excluded.
| Exclusions | Details |
|---|---|
| Exclusions linked to the use of the vehicle | • Use for illegal activities including racing or criminal acts • Commercial use or ride-sharing/delivery (unless properly endorsed) • Use for unauthorized purposes (e.g., without proper license) |
| Exclusions linked to the driver | • Damage caused intentionally by the insured • Use by unauthorized or unlisted drivers (N.C.) |
| Technical exclusions | • Damage due to wear and tear, mechanical or electrical breakdown • Damage from unapproved vehicle modifications |
| Geographical exclusions | • Losses occurring outside Canada/USA unless expressly endorsed |
| Contractual exclusions | • Theft by a household member (except with All Perils coverage) • Losses resulting from fraudulent misrepresentation or failure to disclose material facts (N.C.) |
| Other notable exclusions | • Losses relating to force majeure such as war, terrorism, or nuclear events (N.C.) |
• Commercial use or ride-sharing/delivery (unless properly endorsed)
• Use for unauthorized purposes (e.g., without proper license)
• Use by unauthorized or unlisted drivers (N.C.)
• Damage from unapproved vehicle modifications
• Losses resulting from fraudulent misrepresentation or failure to disclose material facts (N.C.)
N.C. = Not communicated in public Wawanesa documentation. For specific exclusions, consult your policy wording or broker.
The cost of Wawanesa car insurance
Wawanesa is positioned as a competitive insurer in the Canadian market, offering solid coverage options at rates that are generally favourable compared to traditional competitors, particularly for low-risk and multi-policy clients.
While not a pure digital player, Wawanesa’s broker-based model provides personal service and flexible customization, yet may lack the ultra-low premiums sometimes found with online-only insurers.
The insurer stands out by allowing granular tailoring of deductibles and coverages, with comprehensive options and discounts that place it above basic, limited providers but below the most feature-rich and highest-priced carriers.
Younger and high-risk profiles may find Wawanesa more accessible than premium brands, though their pricing tends to align with the mid-range for enhanced plans and coverage-rich bundles.
Overall, Wawanesa’s strengths are its bundling opportunities, responsive claims process, and strong broker support, while its digital experience and niche add-ons can lag behind pure online competitors.
| Basic | Standard | Enhanced | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Young driver (18-24, compact) | $145/month | $178/month | $210/month |
| Standard driver (35-45, intermediate) | $82/month | $97/month | $118/month |
| Senior driver (60-70, city car) | $67/month | $80/month | $97/month |
| Driver with at-fault claim | $168/month | $196/month | $244/month |
| New SUV driver | $92/month | $107/month | $135/month |
| Driver with >25,000km/year | $121/month | $143/month | $172/month |
To find your best rate, compare quotes from Wawanesa and other top insurers based on your personal driving profile and preferred coverage:
Compare the best car insurance plans for free!Start comparingWawanesa car insurance discount codes
| Promotional codes Wawanesa | Details |
|---|---|
| HelloSafe | 5% on your quote |
Note: promotional codes are subject to change. For the latest promotional codes, go to our comparison of the best car insurance.
Your Wawanesa reimbursement amount
| Claim or service | Average price (CA$) | Wawanesa basic plan | Wawanesa comprehensive (collision + comprehensive) | Wawanesa enhanced (all perils, replacement cost, options) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Replacement after theft | $28,000 | ❌ | Up to actual cash value (excluding excess) | Up to full replacement value (excluding excess, with proper option) |
| Repair after at-fault accident | $4,500 | ❌ | Up to $4,500 (excluding excess) | Up to $4,500 (excluding excess) |
| Windshield replacement | $800 | ❌ | Up to $800 (excluding excess) | Up to $800 (excluding excess) |
| Emergency towing | $180 | ❌ | ❌ | Up to $180 (excluding excess, with roadside option) |
| Vandalism repair | $2,000 | ❌ | Up to $2,000 (excluding excess) | Up to $2,000 (excluding excess) |
Wawanesa Car Insurance Assistance
Wawanesa stands out by offering optional Enhanced Roadside Protection, which reimburses the cost of emergency roadside assistance such as towing, flat tires, and battery boosts, giving drivers added peace of mind in daily use.
Transportation Replacement coverage ensures access to a rental vehicle or public transit when your vehicle is undriveable after a covered loss, but this service must be selected as an endorsement. Assistance at home (0 km) and support for electric vehicles are not explicitly referenced in standard policy summaries or public documentation.
Notably, the policy does not communicate coverage for accommodation, alternative transport, vehicle repatriation, legal defence, or incidents with animals on board. Coverage abroad and key recovery or lock replacement are likewise not confirmed, so clients seeking these supports should consult a broker for potential add-ons or clarifications.
| Support Wawanesa | Availability | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 24/7 roadside breakdown assistance | ✅ | Included only with Enhanced Roadside Protection. Reimbursement for eligible services. |
| Towing to repair facility / Extended towing | ✅ | Covered as part of Enhanced Roadside Protection. Subject to policy limits. |
| Assistance from home (0 km) | ❌ | Not included in standard or enhanced coverage. |
| Replacement vehicle | ✅ | Available with Transportation Replacement option. Rental or transit allowed. |
| Alternative transport or accommodation | ❌ | Not communicated |
| Vehicle repatriation | ❌ | Not communicated |
| Assistance abroad | ❌ | Not communicated |
| Assistance for electric vehicles | ❌ | Not communicated |
| Battery assistance & fuel misfuelling | ✅ | Battery boosts covered under Enhanced Roadside Protection. Fuel misfuelling: N.C. |
| Legal assistance after an accident | ✅ | Legal Expense Coverage available as option. Covers legal fees in disputes. |
| Assistance for animals on board | ❌ | Not communicated |
| Key recovery & lock replacement | ❌ | Not communicated |
Reimbursement for eligible services.
Subject to policy limits.
Rental or transit allowed.
Fuel misfuelling: N.C.
Covers legal fees in disputes.
Customer feedback on Wawanesa car insurance
| Review site | Rating and number of reviews |
|---|---|
| Trustpilot | 1.7 out of 5 (792 reviews) |
- Pros
- A number of customers appreciate the competitive pricing offered by Wawanesa, especially for bundled home and auto coverage.
- There are positive mentions of helpful and attentive broker support.
- A portion of policyholders cite a straightforward claims process and satisfactory claim settlements.
- Some drivers value the telematics-based discounts and flexible coverage options.
- Cons
- Many customers report claims processing delays and slow communication from adjusters.
- A recurring issue is premium increases upon renewal, sometimes perceived as unjustified.
- Some reviewers describe challenges with the online account portal and billing system.
- A few policyholders mention difficulties in reaching customer service or brokers during urgent situations.
How to Contact Wawanesa
| Customer service Wawanesa | 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. Wawanesa quotes are provided through local brokers, or call 1-844-929-2637 for general inquiries. |
| To report a claim | Call Wawanesa’s 24/7 claims line at 1-844-929-2637 or submit your claim online. For written documents: Wawanesa Insurance, 900-191 Broadway, Winnipeg, MB R3C 3P1. |
| To request and track a refund | Contact your Wawanesa broker directly or email TalkToUs@wawanesa.com. You may be required to provide your policy number and refund request in writing. Refunds are typically issued to the original payment method and processed within 10–14 business days following approval. |
| To obtain an insurance certificate | Request an insurance certificate by contacting your broker, email TalkToUs@wawanesa.com, or call 1-844-929-2637. Documents can also be mailed to your address as listed on file, or provided digitally through Wawanesa's online services where available. |
| To contact assistance | For roadside and general policy assistance, contact your broker or call Wawanesa at 1-844-929-2637. You can also email TalkToUs@wawanesa.com. Main office postal: Wawanesa Insurance, 900-191 Broadway, Winnipeg, MB R3C 3P1. |
| To cancel my contract | To cancel your contract, contact your Wawanesa broker or call 1-844-929-2637. You will need to provide your policy number, a written cancellation request, and may be asked for supplementary documents (e.g., proof of new insurance). Notice period and specific requirements vary; check with your broker for details. |
FAQ
Do I have to pay in advance for repairs or assistance with Wawanesa?
For approved repairs and towing arranged through Wawanesa’s network, payment is typically made directly to the partner garage or service provider, so you usually do not have to pay in advance. If you choose your own provider, you may have to pay upfront and submit your receipts for reimbursement according to policy terms.
How do I cancel my car insurance contract with Wawanesa?
To cancel your car insurance with Wawanesa, contact your broker and provide written notice (typically with at least 30 days’ advance notice), your policy number, and a signed cancellation request; required documentation may vary by province.
How do I get a quote for Wawanesa car insurance?
To obtain a quote, you must contact a licensed insurance broker partnered with Wawanesa, as quotes are not provided directly by the insurer. You can find a broker using the Wawanesa broker directory online. The process is personalized, and the broker will help you select suitable coverage and explain pricing and options available in your province.
What optional coverages can I add to my Wawanesa car insurance policy?
Wawanesa offers many optional coverages, including collision, comprehensive, all perils, transportation replacement, enhanced roadside protection, legal expense coverage, and replacement cost options. The exact selection depends on your province and individual policy needs. Discuss these choices with your broker to fully tailor your coverage.
How do I file a claim with Wawanesa, and how long does reimbursement take?
Claims can be filed 24/7 by calling 1-844-929-2637 or submitting a claim online. After you’ve provided the required documents and details, a claims adjuster will review your case. Reimbursement periods depend on claim complexity and completeness of your documentation, but Wawanesa aims to resolve straightforward claims as quickly as possible.
What discounts are available with Wawanesa car insurance?
Wawanesa provides discounts for bundling multiple policies, insuring more than one vehicle, installing anti-theft devices or snow tires, and safe driving habits (telematics in some areas). The availability and value of discounts can vary by province, so contact your broker to see which options apply to your policy.
Do I have to pay in advance for repairs or assistance with Wawanesa?
For approved repairs and towing arranged through Wawanesa’s network, payment is typically made directly to the partner garage or service provider, so you usually do not have to pay in advance. If you choose your own provider, you may have to pay upfront and submit your receipts for reimbursement according to policy terms.
How do I cancel my car insurance contract with Wawanesa?
To cancel your car insurance with Wawanesa, contact your broker and provide written notice (typically with at least 30 days’ advance notice), your policy number, and a signed cancellation request; required documentation may vary by province.
How do I get a quote for Wawanesa car insurance?
To obtain a quote, you must contact a licensed insurance broker partnered with Wawanesa, as quotes are not provided directly by the insurer. You can find a broker using the Wawanesa broker directory online. The process is personalized, and the broker will help you select suitable coverage and explain pricing and options available in your province.
What optional coverages can I add to my Wawanesa car insurance policy?
Wawanesa offers many optional coverages, including collision, comprehensive, all perils, transportation replacement, enhanced roadside protection, legal expense coverage, and replacement cost options. The exact selection depends on your province and individual policy needs. Discuss these choices with your broker to fully tailor your coverage.
How do I file a claim with Wawanesa, and how long does reimbursement take?
Claims can be filed 24/7 by calling 1-844-929-2637 or submitting a claim online. After you’ve provided the required documents and details, a claims adjuster will review your case. Reimbursement periods depend on claim complexity and completeness of your documentation, but Wawanesa aims to resolve straightforward claims as quickly as possible.
What discounts are available with Wawanesa car insurance?
Wawanesa provides discounts for bundling multiple policies, insuring more than one vehicle, installing anti-theft devices or snow tires, and safe driving habits (telematics in some areas). The availability and value of discounts can vary by province, so contact your broker to see which options apply to your policy.
On the same topic
