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- Compare at least 3 identical quotes (same coverage, same deductibles).
- Adjusts the deductible (often $1,000 instead of $500) and cuts unnecessary endorsements.
- Activates discounts : multi-policies (car + home), telematics, anti-theft/tracker on SUVs/vans exposed to theft.
- Declares safer parking (driveway/garage) and realistic mileage .
- Take care of your risk profile (no small claims, smooth driving) and refresh your submission at each renewal.
1) Compare “clean” submissions (the basics)
Insurers assess the same risk differently. For a real comparison:
- Sets a single scenario : RCA ($2 million recommended), collision, no collision or upset, glass breakage, same deductible (e.g. $1,000), same endorsements (QEF 20/27/43 if necessary).
- Request ≥ 3 quotes and align all fields (amounts, options).
- Choose the best protection/price ratio, not just the cheapest.
Tip : If you change vehicles, request a quote again before purchase — some models (specific SUVs/pickup trucks) have a theft rating that makes the premium explode.
2) Font settings that lower the premium
- Deductible: Going from $500 → $1,000 often reduces the premium (~8-15%).
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Useful amendments… but not in duplicate :
- QEF 20 (Loss of Use): Keep it if a courtesy vehicle is crucial.
- QEF 27 (unowned vehicle): relevant if you rent/borrow.
- QEF 43 (replacement cost): useful on very recent vehicles; re-evaluates after a few years.
- Glass breakage : depending on your windshield/ADAS, compare with/without or with a separate deductible.
3) Discounts to be activated (often cumulative)
| Savings lever | Typical Gain* | How to get it |
|---|---|---|
| Multi-policies (car + home/renter) | 5–15 % | Bundles with the same insurer |
| Deductible $1,000 (vs. $500) | 8–15 % | Adjusted in submission |
| Telematics (Measured Driving) | 5–20 % | Mobile app/box; Ideal for smooth and urban driving |
| Anti-theft / tracker (risky models) | 5–15 % | Sometimes required for popular SUVs/pickup trucks |
| Annual Mileage ↓ (Actual) | 3–10 % | Declares realistic use (telecommuting, fewer journeys) |
| Secondary drivers (experienced profile) | variable | Adding a “clean” driver can help in some cases |
| Annual payment / direct debit | 2–4 % | Avoids some monthly fees |
* Indicative estimates; vary according to insurer and profile.
4) File, vehicle and location: what weighs most
- Model with a high theft rating : favor anti-theft/approved tracker, secure parking, or even another model if you buy.
- Address & parking: garage/driveway>, street parking.
- ADAS/EV repairs : more expensive; Compensate with an adjusted deductible and telematics if you drive safely.
- History : avoid small claims (you then pay for several years).
5) Strategy 2026 by profile
Young driver (16–24 years old)
- Telematics is almost essential.
- Become a secondary driver on a “clean” contract if possible.
- Avoid “risky” vehicles (theft/power) for 1st car.
Urban driver (Montreal, Laval, Longueuil)
- Tracker on targeted SUVs/pickup trucks.
- Off-street parking if possible.
- Compares several insurers: sensitivity to the neighborhood very variable.
Recent EV or SUV owner
- Checks the cost of parts and the availability of workshops.
- QEF 20 useful (repair times).
- $1,000 deductible + telematics = winning combo if driving smoothly.
6) Mistakes to avoid (which are expensive)
- Compare apples and oranges (different deductibles/amounts).
- Under-declaring mileage or parking: risk of litigation in the event of a claim.
- Cancel too early without counting the costs (calculates the net).
- Keep endorsements that are no longer necessary (e.g. replacement cost beyond the years covered).
7) Smart Renewal Checklist
- Review deductibles (aim for $1,000 if finances OK).
- Checking amendments (QEF 20/27/43): useful or to be adjusted?
- Declare anti-theft/tracker and garage if applicable.
- Activate telematics if your driving is smooth.
- Request 3 identical quotes.
- Keep proof (anti-theft photos, invoices).
