For most drivers, Auto-Owners is the best car insurance company for customer experience among regional insurers, excelling in customer experience and add-on coverage options.
Auto-Owners Car Insurance Review
Updated: October 17, 2025
Advertising & Editorial Disclosure
Key Takeaways
Auto-Owners ranks 10th for affordability, with average monthly rates of $90 and $40 for full coverage and minimum coverage, respectively.
Auto-Owners ranks first nationwide for customer experience among regional insurers due to its strong agent service and positive forum reviews from policyholders.
Auto-Owners earns 10th place for auto insurance coverage options, offering unique features like diminished value coverage and comprehensive roadside assistance.
Auto-Owners Car Insurance Ratings
| Overall Score | 4.60 | 6 |
| Customer Experience | 5.00 | 1 |
| Coverage | 3.33 | 10 |
| Affordability | 4.61 | 10 |
Who Is Auto-Owners Car Insurance Best and Worst For?
Auto-Owners is best for drivers with a DUI, those with newer cars, drivers with bad credit and adult drivers seeking competitive rates.
Data filtered by:
Adult Drivers
Female
100/300/100,000 - 1000 comp_coll
Below Fair
At Fault Accident ($1000-$1999 Prop Dmg)
| Overall Score | 4.19 | 21 |
Auto-Owners Car Insurance Ratings by State
Auto-Owners ranked within the top five insurance companies in 23 of the 26 states and territories we analyzed.
| Alabama | 4.48 | 5 |
| Arizona | 4.58 | 3 |
| Arkansas | 4.47 | 3 |
| California | 3.82 | 8 |
| Colorado | 3.77 | 6 |
| Georgia | 4.52 | 2 |
| Idaho | 4.39 | 2 |
| Illinois | 4.69 | 2 |
| Indiana | 4.16 | 4 |
| Iowa | 4.51 | 3 |
| Kansas | 4.49 | 3 |
| Kentucky | 4.43 | 3 |
| Maine | 4.19 | 3 |
| Michigan | 4.35 | 4 |
| Minnesota | 4.69 | 2 |
| Missouri | 4.63 | 2 |
| Nebraska | 4.72 | 2 |
| New Hampshire | 4.43 | 2 |
| North Dakota | 4.34 | 3 |
| Ohio | 4.32 | 2 |
| South Carolina | 4.59 | 2 |
| South Dakota | 4.23 | 3 |
| Tennessee | 4.47 | 2 |
| Utah | 4.55 | 2 |
| Vermont | 4.04 | 7 |
| Virginia | 4.66 | 3 |
| Wisconsin | 4.47 | 4 |
*Ratings are based on a 40-year-old male driver with good credit and no driving violations who insures a 2012 Toyota Camry.
How Much Does Auto-Owners Car Insurance Cost?
Auto-Owners car insurance costs vary based on your personal profile and coverage choices.
Data filtered by:
Adult Drivers
Female
Below Fair
At Fault Accident ($1000-$1999 Prop Dmg)
100/300/100,000 - 1000 comp_coll
| $289 | $3,468 | 5% | 27 |
Auto-Owners Car Insurance Rates by Driver Category
Auto-Owners doesn't rank among the cheapest car insurance companies for any specific driver category, but it offers competitive rates across most profiles.
| Adult Drivers | $40 | $90 | -21% | 9 |
| Young Drivers | $93 | $198 | -24% | 8 |
| Senior Drivers | $64 | $125 | -10% | 11 |
| Drivers With an Accident | $60 | $132 | -20% | 9 |
| Drivers With a DUI | $91 | $192 | -12% | 14 |
| Drivers With a Speeding Ticket | $50 | $112 | -21% | 10 |
| Drivers With Bad Credit | $124 | $285 | 19% | 31 |
| Drivers With Low Income | $68 | $148 | 0% | 21 |
| Adult Drivers | $42 | $93 | -21% | 10 |
| Drivers With Newer Cars | $56 | $126 | -20% | 7 |
| Drivers With Old Cars | $31 | $69 | -33% | 5 |
*All profiles are modified based on a 40-year-old male driver with good credit and no driving violations, driving a 2012 Toyota Camry. Young drivers represent ages 25 and under, adults 26 to 64 and seniors 65+. Older vehicles change the vehicle age to 2007, and newer vehicles change it to 2025.
Auto-Owners Car Insurance Rates by State
Auto-Owners rates vary by state, though specific monthly cost ranges aren't available in our current data. The company doesn't rank within the top five most affordable insurers for any of the 51 states and territories we analyzed. You can still review Auto-Owners's coverage options and pricing details for your specific area below.
| Alabama | $44 | $89 | -15% | 4 |
| Arizona | $54 | $111 | -18% | 5 |
| Arkansas | $38 | $93 | -18% | 4 |
| California | $75 | $176 | 10% | 9 |
| Colorado | $69 | $179 | 22% | 8 |
| Georgia | $43 | $104 | -31% | 3 |
| Idaho | $33 | $73 | -8% | 7 |
| Illinois | $32 | $75 | -28% | 2 |
| Indiana | $32 | $82 | -8% | 6 |
| Iowa | $28 | $86 | -12% | 6 |
| Kansas | $36 | $87 | -24% | 4 |
| Kentucky | $59 | $109 | -19% | 4 |
| Maine | $42 | $78 | 6% | 7 |
| Michigan | $57 | $115 | -15% | 6 |
| Minnesota | $36 | $82 | -23% | 3 |
| Missouri | $34 | $81 | -38% | 2 |
| Nebraska | $29 | $71 | -33% | 4 |
| New Hampshire | $39 | $77 | -7% | 7 |
| North Dakota | $32 | $81 | -12% | 7 |
| Ohio | $27 | $70 | -21% | 2 |
| South Carolina | $54 | $96 | -23% | 4 |
| South Dakota | $33 | $95 | -7% | 6 |
| Tennessee | $32 | $79 | -26% | 2 |
| Utah | $54 | $97 | -22% | 3 |
| Vermont | $38 | $86 | 18% | 9 |
| Virginia | $45 | $76 | -19% | 4 |
| Wisconsin | $29 | $75 | -15% | 6 |
*Rates are based on a 40-year-old male driver with good credit, no driving violations and a 2012 Toyota Camry.
Auto-Owners Car Insurance Discounts
Auto-Owners offers 14 car insurance discounts, with average savings of up to 20% depending on your driving profile, involvement in programs and your area. Check out its offerings:
Multi-Policy Discount | Not specified | Have other qualifying policies with Auto-Owners | Not specified |
Life Multi-Policy Discount | Not specified | Have a qualifying life insurance policy with Auto-Owners | Not specified |
Payment History | Not specified | Pay premiums on time for the last 36 months | Not specified |
Paid-in-Full Discount | Not specified | Pay full policy premium on time | Not specified |
Green Discount | Not specified | Enroll in paperless billing and pay policy premiums online | Not specified |
Advance Quote | Not specified | Request premium quote prior to policy effective date | Not specified |
Multi-Car | Not specified | Two or more private passenger vehicles on personal auto policy | Not specified |
Classic/Antique Auto Discount | Substantial discounts on most coverages | Vehicle classified as classic or antique automobile | Not specified |
Safety Feature Discounts | Not specified | Vehicle equipped with anti-lock brake systems (ABS), airbags, or anti-theft devices | Not specified |
Teen Driver Monitoring | Not specified | Permanently installed GPS in teen's primary vehicle OR teen enrolled in eligible smartphone app | Not specified |
Higher Deductibles | May reduce policy premium | Choose higher deductible amounts | Not specified |
Favorable Loss History | Lower premium | Maintain favorable loss/claims history | Not specified |
Good Student Discount | Up to 20% | Students maintain "B" or better grade-point average | Not specified |
Student Away at School | Not specified | Student attending school more than 100 miles from home without a vehicle | Not specified |
Auto-Owners Car Insurance Customer Reviews and Reputation
Auto-Owners ranks first for overall customer satisfaction among regional insurers in MoneyGeek's comprehensive customer experience study. Customer feedback shows the company receives praise for responsive agent service and helpful local representation.
But some policyholders report longer-than-expected claim processing times and occasional communication gaps during complex claims.
Buying Process Experience
Auto-Owners requires customers to work exclusively through independent agents, with no online quote options available.
While the company scored above average (679/1,000) in J.D. Power's 2024 Shopping Study and ranked first in Florida, many customers find the agent-only model limiting compared to digital-first competitors. The company's below-average scores in four of five regions in 2025 suggest declining satisfaction with the purchase experience.
Policy Management
Auto-Owners' digital experience lags behind industry standards, scoring below average in J.D. Power's Digital Experience Study due to its focus on agent-based service rather than self-service digital tools.
Customer reviews show divided opinions: long-term policyholders often praise personal relationships with agents, while others report frustration with rapid premium increases despite clean driving records.
Claims Experience
Customers are dissatisfied with claims processing, with Auto-Owners scoring below industry average (692/1,000) in J.D. Power's Claims Satisfaction Study. There are extended processing delays, questionable liability denials on clear-fault cases and poor adjuster communication.
BBB ratings show significant dissatisfaction (1.45/5 stars from 104 reviews) with consistent complaints about prolonged claim timelines and inadequate rental car coverage.
Auto-Owners Car Insurance Industry Customer Satisfaction Ratings
Auto-Owners ranks well for financial strength from all industry rating agencies, but in J.D. Power studies, the company finishes average or below average in most areas. Here are Auto-Owners's scores from industry agencies.
AM Best Financial Strength | A+ (Superior) | A++ to D- | Recently downgraded from A++ in October 2024 due to industry-wide claims cost pressures |
AM Best Long-Term Credit Standing | aa | aaa to d | Downgraded from aa+ to aa (Superior) with stable outlook |
S&P Global Financial Strength | Not Rated | AAA to D | Auto-Owners doesn't have a rating with S&P |
Moody's Financial Strength | Not Rated | Aaa to C | Auto-Owners doesn't have a rating with Moody's |
J.D. Power Auto Claims Satisfaction | High Performance | 1,000-point scale | Ranking 2nd overall nationwide for claims satisfaction (industry average: 697) |
J.D. Power Digital Service Experience | Below Average | 1,000-point scale | Not among top performers; leaders include Nationwide (730) and Amica (724) |
J.D. Power Auto Insurance Shopping Study | 679/1000 | Out of 1,000 | Erie Insurance leads with 714; Auto-Owners not in top rankings |
J.D. Power Overall Customer Satisfaction | 654/1,000 (Regional Leader - Florida) | Out of 1,000 | Ranked highest in Florida region but below national average |
NAIC Auto Complaints | 0.86 | 1.00 is average | 14% fewer complaints than expected for insurers of its size |
Auto-Owners Car Insurance Reddit and Forum Customer Satisfaction
Auto-Owners customers on Reddit and online forums consistently praise the company's personalized service, competitive rates and strong local agent relationships.
Here's what real customers are saying about their experiences on forums:
Pricing and Value
General thoughts on pricing initially are very positive, with customers appreciating stable rates and the mutual company benefits according to forum users:
"Auto-Owners has kept my rates stable for years - no surprise jumps like I experienced with the big national carriers. Being a mutual company really shows in how they treat policyholders."
Claims Processing
Claims processing receives high marks for fairness and local handling, though some customers note longer processing times compared to tech-forward competitors:
"When I had a deer collision, my local Auto-Owners agent walked me through everything. Took a bit longer than expected, but they were thorough and fair with the settlement."
Customer Service
Agent relationships are consistently highlighted as a major strength, with customers valuing the personal touch and local expertise:
"My Auto-Owners agent knows me by name and actually calls to check in. When I had questions about coverage after buying a motorcycle, they explained everything clearly instead of rushing me off the phone."
"The local office approach really works - when I need to make changes or have questions, I can just walk in and talk to someone who knows my account history."
Digital Experience
The online and mobile experience receives mixed reviews, with customers appreciating basic functionality but noting gaps compared to more tech-focused insurers:
"Auto-Owners' app works fine for checking my policy and making payments, but it's pretty basic compared to what some other companies offer. Sometimes I still need to call for things I could probably do online elsewhere."
Trust and Reputation
As with many regional insurers, trust levels are high among long-term customers, with the mutual structure and local presence building strong loyalty:
"Auto-Owners has been around forever and they're not going anywhere. When the big storm hit our area last year, they had adjusters out quickly and didn't try to lowball anyone - they know their reputation matters in small communities."
Coverage Options
Customers appreciate comprehensive coverage options and the ability to customize policies, though some note limitations in newer coverage types:
"Auto-Owners offers solid traditional coverage and my agent helped me understand exactly what I needed. They might not have all the newest bells and whistles, but they cover what matters most."
REVIEWS ON FORUMS AREN’T A PERFECT GAUGE
Negative reviews dominate forums and don't reflect overall service quality. For a complete picture, combine user reviews with industry resources like J.D. Power, independent agents, National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) and the Insurance Information Institute.
Auto-Owners Car Insurance Coverage Options
Auto-Owners provides standard coverages like other top insurers, including liability, comprehensive and collision protection. The company also offers additional add-ons such as:
Road Trouble Service | Towing, jump-starts, lockout service, flat tire changes, minor mechanical malfunctions, dead battery assistance | 24/7 service availability; Call 1-888-TOW-AOIC (1-888-869-2642); Coverage in all 50 states and Canada |
Additional Expense | Rental car costs and additional living expenses when stranded away from home due to covered accident | Covers food, lodging, and other incidental expenses; Goes beyond basic rental coverage |
Loan or Lease Gap | Pays the difference between the car's current value and the amount still owed on lease or loan if totaled | Protects against depreciation loss; Covers gap between actual cash value and loan balance |
Diminished Value | Compensates for reduced vehicle value after accident repairs | Protects investment; Ensures compensation for value reduction even after quality repairs |
Rental Auto Gap | Coverage for rental car agreement liability amounts | Covers amounts you are liable for under rental agreement terms |
At-Fault Accident Forgiveness | Waives accident surcharge for first at-fault accident after purchase | Requires no paid at-fault claims or major violations for 36 months prior; One-time benefit |
Common Loss Deductible | Reduces or waives auto deductible when both home and auto damaged in same event | Reduces auto deductible by home personal property deductible amount; May waive completely if auto deductible is lower |
Rental Car Coverage | Extends full policy coverage to rental vehicles | Broadest coverages and limits apply; Covers rental company charges and fees for accidents |
OEM Parts Coverage | Uses Original Equipment Manufacturer parts for repairs | Automatic inclusion for newer vehicles |
New Car Replacement | Pays full MSRP for totaled car ≤1-2 model years old | Full manufacturer's suggested retail price |
Progressive Vehicle Protection | Covers major systems, minor dents, lost/stolen keys | Requires multiple other coverages |
Other Auto-Owners Insurance Coverage Options to Consider
Here are other insurance types you can bundle with auto coverage or buy on their own:
Who Offers It? | Insurance Products |
|---|---|
Auto-Owners (Directly Offered) | Auto insurance, homeowners insurance, renters insurance, condo insurance, life insurance, farm insurance, business insurance, umbrella insurance, motorcycle insurance, RV Insurance, boat insurance, disability income insurance and annuities. |
Third-Party Partner | No specific third-party partnerships mentioned on the official website. |
Auto-Owners Auto Insurance Review: Bottom Line
Auto-Owners is a reliable and reasonably affordable insurance provider with an extensive selection of add-on coverage options. We recommend that you compare quotes from other insurers and decide on coverage needs before buying to get the best deal.
Auto-Owners Car Insurance Reviews: FAQ
Below are MoneyGeek's expert answers to frequently asked questions about Auto-Owners car insurance:
Does Auto-Owners insurance have a good reputation?
Yes, Auto-Owners is a legitimate car insurance company that secured 6th place in our comprehensive car insurance provider rankings. The insurer particularly excels in customer experience, where it earned the top position among all carriers we evaluated.
Where is Auto-Owners the best car insurance company?
Auto-Owners isn't the best car insurance company in any of the 51 states in our study.
How much does Auto-Owners car insurance cost on average?
Auto-Owners charges adults an average of $490 annually for minimum coverage and $1,098 for full coverage. Annual premiums span $358 to $7,910 for minimum and $805 to $15,614 for full coverage.
Is Auto-Owners known for denying claims?
Customer feedback suggests Auto-Owners has mixed claim handling practices, with some policyholders reporting delayed processing and disputed settlements. But comprehensive data on systematic claim denials remains limited to individual reviews.
Is Auto-Owners a good option for high-risk drivers?
Auto-Owners offers competitive rates for certain high-risk drivers. The insurer ranks fifth overall for drivers with older cars, making it an excellent choice for this group.
Does Auto-Owners raise car insurance rates over time?
Yes, Auto-Owners raises rates over time due to inflation driving up repair and medical costs, plus increased claims from distracted driving and severe weather events.
Is Auto-Owners good for young drivers?
Auto-Owners offers reasonable rates for young drivers, ranking eighth overall for affordability with monthly premiums averaging $198 for full coverage and $93 for minimum coverage.
How We Rated Auto-Owners Car Insurance
MoneyGeek pulled auto insurance rate data from Quadrant Information Services and compared prices from 79 insurers in every U.S. ZIP code.
Standard Driver Profile Used for Analysis
We used a baseline driver profile to ensure consistent rate comparisons. Our standard driver has these characteristics:
- Age: 40 years old, male
- Vehicle: 2012 Toyota Camry LE
- Driving history: Clean record
- Annual mileage: 12,000 miles
- Credit rating: Good
- License status: Valid and active
- Insurance history: Currently covered with no previous claims
We then modified specific variables, including age, driving record, credit score and military status, to determine which insurers offer the best rates for different driver categories. Our minimum coverage rates represent policies meeting state-required minimums. Full coverage includes 100/300/100 liability limits plus comprehensive and collision coverage with $1,000 deductibles.
Company Rating System
Our evaluation process weighted three key factors:
- Cost (60% weight): We compared quotes across multiple driver profiles within each city, measuring how competitively each insurer prices its policies against local competitors.
- Customer satisfaction (30% weight): We analyzed customer feedback from multiple sources, including Google reviews, J.D. Power ratings, AM Best scores and online forums like Reddit, to assess overall service quality and customer experience.
- Coverage variety (10% weight): We evaluated each provider's coverage options, considering the breadth of available policies and any unique benefits or features.
About Mark Fitzpatrick
Mark Fitzpatrick, a Licensed Property and Casualty Insurance Producer, is MoneyGeek's resident Personal Finance Expert. With over five years of experience analyzing the insurance market, he conducts original research and creates tailored content for all types of buyers. His insights have been featured in publications like CNBC, NBC News and Mashable.
Fitzpatrick holds a master’s degree in economics and international relations from Johns Hopkins University and a bachelor’s degree from Boston College. He's also a five-time Jeopardy champion!
Passionate about economics and insurance, he aims to promote transparency in financial topics and empower others to make confident money decisions.