Why pay too much for your car insurance in Quebec?

In Quebec, the average car insurance premium is around $700 to $1,200 per year. Yet, many motorists pay more than they need to simply because they haven’t shopped around or are unaware of available discounts. With the right strategies, it is quite possible to find low-cost car insurance without compromising the quality of your coverage.

Whether you’re in Montreal, Quebec City, Sherbrooke, Gatineau, Trois-Rivières or elsewhere in the province, these 10 tips will help you reduce your car insurance bill in 2026.

10 concrete tips for low-cost car insurance

1. Increase your deductible

The deductible is the amount you pay out of pocket before the insurer intervenes. By going from $250 to $500 or even $1,000, you can reduce your premium by 15 to 25 per cent. Just make sure you have this amount available in case of a claim.

2. Group your fonts (multi-fonts)

Combining your home and car insurance with the same insurer gives you access to a multi-policy discount of 10 to 20%. This is one of the simplest and most effective strategies to lower your premium.

3. Take advantage of telematics

Telematics programs (box or mobile application) analyze your driving in real time. If you drive safely — little hard braking, obeying speed limits — you can get discounts of 10 to 25 percent. Ideal for good drivers who want to prove their caution.

4. Install an anti-theft system

A certified anti-theft device (alarm, window engraving, GPS tracker) reassures your insurer and can save you 5 to 15% on your premium. With the increase in vehicle theft in Quebec, it is a doubly profitable investment.

5. Maintain a good credit report

Some insurers look at your credit score to assess your risk profile. A good payment history and well-managed credit can earn you an additional 5-15% discount. Pay your bills on time and keep your credit utilization rate low.

6. Shop around every year at renewal

Loyalty is not always rewarded in insurance. Rates vary considerably from one insurer to another and change every year. Comparing offers at each renewal can generate savings of 10-30%. A broker makes this comparison easier by consulting several insurers for you.

7. Take advantage of group discounts

Your employer, professional order, student association or union may have negotiated group rates with some insurers. These corporate discounts can represent a savings of 5 to 15%. Ask your HR department for more information.

8. Install your winter tires

In Quebec, winter tires are mandatory from December 1 to March 15. Many insurers offer a 3-5% discount for vehicles equipped with certified winter tires. It’s an automatic discount — just mention it to your broker.

9. Reduce your annual mileage

The less you drive, the less likely you are to get into an accident. If you drive less than 15,000 km per year, inform your insurer. Telecommuting, carpooling or public transit can qualify you for a low-mileage discount of 5 to 10%.

10. Choose an economical vehicle to insure

Before buying a vehicle, check its insurance cost. Cars that are less powerful, less stolen and with good safety ratings cost less to insure. A Honda Civic or Toyota Corolla will cost significantly less to insure than a BMW X5 or Ford F-150.

Comparison table: impact of each tip on your premium

Broker vs agent vs direct: who offers the best price?

Beware of insurance that is too cheap

How to get your quote in 3 steps

Understanding your car insurance policy in Quebec

Chapter A: Civil liability (mandatory)

All vehicle owners in Quebec must have civil liability insurance of at least $50,000. This coverage covers damage you cause to other people or vehicles. Most brokers recommend an amount of $2,000,000 for adequate coverage.

Chapter B: Coverage for your vehicle (optional)

Section B covers damage to your own vehicle: collision, theft, fire, vandalism, windshield breakage. This is where you can play with deductibles and coverages to adjust your premium. For an older vehicle, removing the collision can generate significant savings.

Replacement Value: Endorsement 43 vs. Replacement Insurance

For a recent vehicle, replacement cost is essential. Endorsement 43 (offered by some insurers) and replacement insurance work differently but have the same objective: to replace your vehicle at the purchase price in the event of a total loss. Ask your broker to explain the differences.

Difficult situation? Solutions exist

If you have a criminal record, demerit points, a suspended licence, or a claims history, it can be difficult to find low-cost insurance. Assur360 works with partners specializing in substandard insurance to offer you solutions adapted to competitive rates.

Low-cost car insurance everywhere in Quebec

Whether you live in Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, Quebec City, Gatineau, Sherbrooke, Trois-Rivières or Saguenay, our brokers compare the best car insurance prices in your area. Rates vary depending on your jurisdiction — a local broker knows which insurers are the most competitive for your industry.

Useful links

Frequently Asked Questions — Low-Cost Car Insurance

* This article contains general information for information purposes only. For advice tailored to your situation, consult an AMF-certified insurance broker.