Cheap Guelph Car Insurance Quotes

Save an average of $371* on Guelph car insurance when you compare quotes on InsuranceHotline.com

We do not operate in your province.

How to get the cheapest Guelph car insurance quotes

Get multiple car insurance quotes in the time it takes to get just one

Enter Your Postal Code

Start with your postal code to begin!

Enter Driver Details

Tell us a little bit about your vehicle, driving & car insurance history.

Compare Your Quotes

Compare your car insurance quotes from more than 30 top insurance companies.

Pick Your Policy

Pick the insurance policy that's right for you to connect directly with the insurance professional of your choice.

Get Quotes Now

We've got hundreds of 5 star reviews

2,122 reviews on TrustPilot. See some of the reviews here.

Powered by TrustPilot
Alexandra Bosanac

Written by

Alexandra Bosanac About Alexandra Bosanac

Alexandra Bosanac, content manager at InsuranceHotline.com, focuses on auto insurance. She has covered the topic since 2017. Alexandra holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism from Toronto Metropolitan University. Prior to joining InsuranceHotline.com in 2021, she contributed to publications such as Canadian Business, the Toronto Star, the National Post, and the CBC.

 

Content Manager

Updated On

June 10, 2024

How Guelph auto insurance works 

Guelph is only 70 kilometres from downtown Toronto and is one of Canada's first planned towns. The Ontario government's rules regulate auto insurance in Guelph. The governing body for all Ontario and Guelph auto insurance is the Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario.

Car insurance in Guelph operates under a no-fault system, which doesn't mean people who cause accidents aren't held accountable. No-fault means that each driver involved in a collision will make claims and receive benefits from their respective insurance provider.

Private, for-profit companies in Ontario provide car insurance. You can purchase a policy with a broker, agent or directly from the company itself, no agent needed (companies who operate like this are known as 'direct writers'). Buying online is often the fastest way to get car insurance.

 

Changes to Ontario auto insurance: 2024 reforms

Drivers will have the option to remove currently mandatory accident benefits from their auto insurance policy within the next two years, according to the 2024 Ontario budget. Here's what that will look like: 

  • Coverage that will become optional are the caregiver benefit, housekeeping and home maintenance expenses benefit, income replacement benefit, and death and funeral benefits. 
  • Coverage that will remain mandatory are benefits for medical, rehabilitation, and attendant care.  

The changes to accident benefits are expected to take effect sometime in 2026, after the province finishes consulting with car insurance providers. Here's what else is new:

  • The province also wants to make auto insurance companies the first payer for medical and rehabilitation benefits a person's private medical insurance is the first payer). This is supposed to streamline the claims process, leading to quicker resolutions.
  • And in case you missed it, direct compensation for property damage (DCPD), once mandatory, became an optional coverage in January 2024.

 

The main takeaway

No matter what, your first step should always be to compare insurance companies online. The Ontario government says that comparison shopping is essential to find the lowest rate. Rates comparison websites like ours have made it easier to act on that advice.

Enter your postal code, and we'll source quotes from 50+ insurance companies in less than three minutes. You'll instantly see which insurer offers your lowest rate.

Our services are always free, and you're not obligated to do anything. A lot of drivers use comparison sites for research. If you're ready to switch insurance companies, we'll be in touch to connect you with the broker who can help you lock in your new rate.

Mandatory & optional car insurance coverage in Guelph

Insurance typeMandatory coverageOptional/ Additional Coverage
Third-Party Liability$200,000 minimum. Provides coverage in the event of a lawsuit resulting from an accident where you are at fault.Coverage can be increased to $500,000, $1 million, or $2 million, with up to $2 million limit.
Uninsured Automobile InsuranceProvides up to $200,000 in coverage if you are injured or killed by an uninsured driver, or if your vehicle is damaged as a result of a hit-and-run by an unidentified, uninsured motorist.Family Protection Coverage is an optional coverage that includes additional coverage of up to $1 million in the case of a hit-and-run by an uninsured motorist.
Statutory Accident BenefitsProvides coverage if you are injured in an accident, regardless of who is at fault. Covers medical expenses that aren’t covered by OHIP.Coverage limits can be increased.
Direct Compensation-Property Damage (DC-PD)OptionalDCPD is included in all standard insurance policies, but Ontario drivers can apply to remove it. DCPD pays to repair or replace your car if you're in a collision where the other driver is at fault. You lose this coverage by removing DCPD, as well as your ability to sue the other driver for repairs. 
Collision Coverage (Also Upset Coverage)OptionalCovers the costs of repairing or replacing your vehicle following a collision with another vehicle, an object, or property.
Comprehensive coverageOptionalCovers damages caused by named perils identified under the Specified Perils coverage, as well as losses from other perils like falling or flying objects, theft, fire, hail, windstorms, missiles, and vandalism.
Specified Perils CoverageOptionalCovers damages caused by named perils such as theft, attempted theft, explosions, natural disasters like fire, lightning, windstorm, hail, rising water, earthquakes, and other perils specified in your policy. Specified perils do not cover damages due to vandalism, breakage of glass, etc.
All-Perils CoverageOptionalCombines collision/upset and comprehensive coverage. Also, provides additional protection if a household member or an employee steals your vehicle.
OPCF 20: Coverage for Transportation ReplacementOptionalCovers the cost of your transportation replacement and rental car insurance if you were to get into a car accident or if your vehicle is stolen.
OPCF 27: Liability for Damage to Non-Owned Automobile(s)OptionalCovers if you damage a borrowed or rental vehicle. The coverage limit is usually around $25,000 to $50,000.
OPCF 39: Accident Waiver/ForgivenessOptionalProtect your premium from rising when you have your first at-fault accident.
OPCF 16: Suspension of coverageOptionalThis allows you to suspend your insurance coverage for 30 days or more during periods when you aren't using the car.
OPCF 43: Waiver of depreciationOptionalEnsures your insurance company won't factor in depreciation when settling a claim; you will receive the amount you initially paid for the car.
OPCF 44R: Family protection coverageOptionalEnsures your costs are covered if you and your family are involved in an accident with a driver with less liability insurance than you. This endorsement will cover the remainder.
OPCF 13C: Limited glassOptionalFor a lower premium, you can limit or exclude any coverage for glass damage that might've been in your policy.
OPCF 40: Fire and theft deductibleOptionalAdds a deductible (an amount you must pay before your insurance company chips in funds) for a theft or fire damage claim.

How much does car insurance in Guelph cost? 

Guelph is home to two respected post-secondary institutions and a growing manufacturing and technology sector. However, only about 144,000 people call it home according to the 2021 census, making it relatively small compared to other Southwestern Ontario cities.

According to Insuramap, the average Guelph auto insurance rate for drivers is $1,391 per year, which is 11% lower than the Ontario average of $1,555.

The average for nearby cities is:

  • Kitchener: $1,346 (3% less than Guelph)
  • Waterloo: $1,351 (2.9% less than Guelph)
  • Milton: $1,498 (8% higher than Guelph)
  • Hamilton: $1,564 (12% higher than Guelph)

Different towns and cities in Canada will naturally have different claim frequencies. High-traffic areas will likely have more claims than smaller towns. As a result, living in a place with a greater number of claims collectively will affect your insurance rate.

Guelph ranks 27th out of 53 on a complete ranking of car insurance premiums by Ontario city, putting premiums in the mid-range. It reflects fewer claims and driving risks within the town than Vaughan, which ranks highest on the list with a premium of $2,179.

Factors that influence your Guelph auto insurance premium

Your age

Guelph auto insurance providers are interested in risk. The higher the risk, the higher the premium. Young drivers will always be considered at higher risk due to their lack of experience and record. 

The vehicle you drive

Different cars can affect your Guelph auto insurance quotes. Higher-end vehicles that are more costly to replace and maintain might have higher premiums than “average” cars with more safety features. Plus, some vehicles are more vulnerable to theft than others, making them more costly to insure. 

Where you live 

High crime rates and congested urban areas pose more risk. This results in higher Guelph auto insurance premiums. 

Your driving record

Practicing defensive driving — meaning, you're aware and prepared to make split-second decisions — may seem like obvious advice, but it’s also good for your finances. A clean driving record indicates that you are risk-averse and low-risk to your insurer. On the other hand, a pattern of infractions indicates the opposite. 

Your insurance history 

Making multiple claims and failing to pay premiums on time will reflect poorly on you. The worst-case scenario is that your insurance is cancelled, or at the very least, your trustworthiness is shot, and your premiums go up. 

The coverage options you choose

Different Guelph auto insurance premiums are tied to the amount of coverage you select. Standard mandatory insurance will be cheaper than opting for additional coverage, such as comprehensive, specified perils or collision. Visit InsuranceHotline.com for quotes on the various options. We’ll set you up with a licensed insurance expert who can help you lock in your lowest rate and help you get the appropriate amount of coverage for your situation.

Your policy's deductibles 

A deductible is an out-of-pocket amount you pay before your Guelph auto insurance company's benefits kick in. If you choose a high deductible, meaning you pay more, your insurance company will offer lower premiums. Choosing a low deductible will have the opposite effect. 

Whether you’re bundling other insurance products

Bundling is a way to save on Guelph car insurance rates when you buy other insurance services, such as home and life, from the same provider. Having more of your business will incentivize your Guelph car insurance provider to offer discounts on all services.

Gender and marital status

Guelph auto insurance companies are in the business of assessing risk. Like most insurance companies, they view married drivers as being lower risk due to their familial obligations. Risk is also correlated with gender; males are considered higher risk to insure (especially young and inexperienced ones).

The company’s own insurance claims history

Your Guelph car insurance company has to pay claims to customers. To do that, they need capital reserves. The more claims they receive, the more cash they need. Insurance companies will raise premiums to balance out the cash component. 

Recent annual car insurance savings unlocked by real Guelph drivers

Here are some recent examples of savings found by real Guelph drivers from across the province using InsuranceHotline.com.

Savings: $313

Driver: Female, 55

From: Guelph, ON

Driving: 2013 Ford Escape

Savings: $24

Driver: Male, 29

From: Guelph, ON

Driving: 2017 Hyundai Tucson

Savings: $87

Driver: Male, 28

From: Guelph, ON

Driving: 2021 Honda Civic

Savings: $99

Driver: Male, 42

From: Guelph, ON

Driving: 2022 Toyota Rav LE 4DR 2WD

Savings: $333

Driver: Female, 40

From: Guelph, ON

Driving: 2021 Hyundai Sonata Luxury 1.6T 4DR

Savings: $115

Driver: Female, 32

From: Guelph, ON

Driving: 2022 Cadillac CT4 4DR

What can I do to get cheaper car insurance in Guelph?  

Finding savings on Guelph car insurance is easier than you think. Here are 10 tips to get you started.

Shop around: Try comparison sites like InsuranceHotline.com as a start. You'll get quotes from the top Guelph auto insurance companies instantly.

Increase deductibles: Increasing your deductible will reduce any claim payout your Guelph car insurance provider will have to pay. It saves them money on overhead costs and allows them to reduce your premium in return.

Make lump sum payments: Paying upfront is always welcome by your Guelph car insurance company. They require substantial cash reserves for future claims and will reward your loyalty and payment with a lower premium.

Bundle your policies: Bundling all your insurance policies (usually your personal car and home insurance) under one provider can save you anywhere from 5% to 15%.

Insure all your vehicles with the same company: You can save 10% to 20% simply by insuring more than one vehicle with your Guelph auto insurance provider.

Change tires seasonally: Many Guelph car insurance companies will offer discounts for drivers who put on winter tires when temperatures dip. It keeps you safe, and as for the insurance company, it reduces the potential for increased claims due to collisions.

Compare annually: It's always good to check under the hood, so to speak. Revisit your Guelph car insurance policy every year and check to see if a different insurer can offer you coverage for less. You'll also save money if you switch insurance providers during the 30-day grace period your insurer allows before it automatically renews your policy.

Use a telematics device: Telematics, devices that monitor your driving habits, can save you as much as 25% on your Guelph auto insurance premiums.

Ask about discounts: Discounts are available from Guelph car insurance companies for members of certain associations, post-secondary institutions, and claims-free policyholders. Make sure to ask about these or additional discount offerings.

Get street-smart: An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. That's why a driver's education course will typically help you save on your Guelph auto insurance. The more you learn and sharpen your skills, the better habits you will form as a driver. You're reducing risk and helping yourself save.

Compare quotes and save on Guelph auto insurance

Guelph has modest auto insurance rates compared to other cities in Ontario. That said, you still dont want to take the first rate that youre offered. At InsuranceHotline.com, we've helped millions of Canadians compare quotes so they can find the lowest auto insurance premiums possible.

Guelph car insurance quotes can differ by hundreds, or even thousands, of dollars. Thats because companies each use their own criteria for calculating insurance rates. An offer youll receive at one company wont be the same offer you receive at the next one. If you take time to do your research, you can work this to your advantage. By shopping around, you can compare quotes to find the best deal for your Guelph car insurance.

Luckily, weve made it easy for you. We instantly provide quotes so you can figure out which company you want to go with. Weve partnered with some of the most trusted insurance companies to ensure youll get the coverage you need. Check out our site today to start comparing quotes.

*Shoppers in Guelph who obtained a quote on InsuranceHotline.com from January to December 2023 saved an average of $371 per year. The average savings represent the difference between the shoppers’ average lowest quoted premium and the average of the second and third-lowest quoted premiums generated by InsuranceHotline.com.

Frequently asked questions about Guelph auto insurance

How do I find the cheapest Guelph car insurance? 

Comparison shopping is always the best way to look for the cheapest Guelph car insurance quotes. InsuranceHotline.com will provide you with the most up-to-date quotes from the top insurance providers in the area. 

Who has the best auto insurance in Guelph? 

Everyone's needs are different. Finding who has the best auto insurance in Guelph will depend on your driving habits and how much coverage you want, as well as the type of car you drive and your area. Get quotes on InsuranceHotline.com and speak with one of our insurance professionals to see which company meets your budgetary and driving needs. 

Can I get car insurance in Guelph as a newcomer?  

Getting car insurance in Guelph as a newcomer is relatively easy, but there are requirements you have to satisfy. First, you must have a valid driver’s licence. For example, in Ontario, the license from the country you emigrated from is valid for up to 60 days.

Also, some insurance companies will want to know your driver's history and may ask for proof from your home country. 

Drivers from other countries (or provinces) can apply for a licence exchange and foreign licence application. Some countries have a licence exchange agreement with Ontario, meaning you can swap licences immediately. If your home country doesn’t have an agreement with Ontario, you can still get credited for your driving experience. You may, however, be asked to take a driving test. When inquiring about these programs, you must have the appropriate paperwork and ID from your home country. 

After you get your license, you can buy insurance. Some Canadian insurance companies might not count your driving experience, forcing you to start from square one, but some will. It helps to have proof of your insurance history from your previous provider.

There are dozens of auto insurance companies to choose from in Ontario. InsuranceHotline.com will help you find the insurance company that can offer you the lowest rate.

Alexandra Bosanac, Content Manager

Alexandra Bosanac, content manager at InsuranceHotline.com, focuses on auto insurance. She has covered the topic since 2017. Alexandra holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism from Toronto Metropolitan University. Prior to joining InsuranceHotline.com in 2021, she contributed to publications such as Canadian Business, the Toronto Star, the National Post, and the CBC.

 

Read more about the author