Central ranks 10th nationally, placing it among the best car insurance companies for most drivers. The company provides exceptional coverage options and strong customer service experience.
Central Car Insurance Review
Updated: November 11, 2025
Advertising & Editorial Disclosure
Key Takeaways
Central ranks 20th for full coverage affordability and 15th for minimum liability coverage, with average monthly rates of $122 and $47.
Central ranks fifth nationwide for overall customer satisfaction due to strong agent service and forum reviews from policyholders.
Central earns the top spot for specialized coverage options, like accident forgiveness programs and new car replacement coverage.
Central Car Insurance Ratings
| Overall Score | 4.51 | 10 |
| Customer Experience | 4.65 | 5 |
| Coverage | 5.00 | 1 |
| Affordability | 4.36 | 17 |
Who Is Central Car Insurance Best and Worst For?
Central is best for adult drivers, young drivers, those with accidents and drivers with older vehicles seeking affordable coverage.
Data filtered by:
Adult Drivers
Female
100/300/100,000 - 1000 comp_coll
Below Fair
At Fault Accident ($1000-$1999 Prop Dmg)
| Overall Score | 4.65 | 2 |
How Much Does Central Car Insurance Cost?
Central car insurance rates range from $45 to $883 monthly, depending on driver 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
| $175 | $2,095 | -37% | 8 |
Central Car Insurance Rates by Driver Category
Central is more expensive than average across all driver categories, including young drivers, seniors and those with violations.
| Adult Drivers | $45 | $119 | -4% | 17 |
| Drivers With a DUI | $93 | $224 | -1% | 20 |
| Drivers With an Accident | $45 | $119 | -32% | 6 |
| Drivers With a Speeding Ticket | $59 | $150 | 1% | 20 |
| Drivers With Bad Credit | $88 | $228 | -8% | 19 |
| Drivers With Low Income | $61 | $150 | -3% | 20 |
| Drivers With Newer Cars | $55 | $147 | -11% | 15 |
| Drivers With Old Cars | $40 | $105 | -3% | 16 |
| Senior Drivers | $76 | $175 | 20% | 26 |
| Young Drivers | $92 | $217 | -19% | 14 |
*We modified all profiles 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 or older. We changed the vehicle age to 2007 for older cars and 2025 for newer ones.
Central Car Insurance Discounts
Central offers 12 car insurance discounts, with average savings of up to 10% depending on your driving profile, involvement in programs and your area. Check out its offerings:
Package Credit | Not specified | Central writes both your automobile and homeowners coverages | Available in all 21+ states served |
E-Credit | $5 annual credit per policy | Enroll in both E-billing and E-policy options | Available in all 21+ states served |
Customer Loyalty Credit | Up to 10% maximum | Earn credit after first two consecutive years with Central, maximum discount after ten years | Available in all 21+ states served |
Insurance Score Discount | Not specified | Excellent insurance scores as determined by consumer credit information | Available in all 21+ states served |
Payment Timeliness Credit | Not specified | No cancellation notices for non-payment on renewal policies | Available in all 21+ states served |
Higher Deductibles Credit | Not specified | Select higher deductible on your policy | Available in all 21+ states served |
Paid-in-Full Discount | 5% | Pay auto premium annually | Available in all 21+ states served |
Elite New Policy Discount | Not specified | New Central auto policy with higher liability limits, no accidents, high insurance score, and minimal traffic violations | Available in all 21+ states served |
teenSMART® Discount | Not specified | Teen driver enrolls in and completes teenSMART Driver Safety Program | Available in all 21+ states served |
New Teen Driver Family Loyalty Discount | Not specified | Discount based on how long you've been a Central customer when adding teen driver | Available in all 21+ states served |
Vehicle Safety Features Credit | Not specified | Passive restraint and anti-theft devices (original equipment manufacturer or aftermarket installed) | Available in all 21+ states served |
Accident Prevention Credit | Not specified | Specified operators who completed approved accident prevention course within past 36 months | Available in all 21+ states served |
Central Car Insurance Customer Reviews and Reputation
Central takes fifth place in overall customer satisfaction in MoneyGeek's comprehensive customer experience study. The company has a responsive agent service and user-friendly digital tools, though some policyholders report longer-than-expected claim resolution times.
Buying Process Experience
It offers competitive pricing and comprehensive discount programs, including elite new policy discounts, teenSMART driver programs and accident prevention course discounts.
Policy Management
Digital capabilities include the myCentral online platform and mobile app. These tools allow customers to file claims, access policy information and make payments, with some users praising the quick and easy claim-filing process.
Central's National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) index of 0.5 indicates fewer complaints than average competitors of similar size.
Claims Experience
Positive reviews highlight accommodating representatives, efficient hurricane claim processing and exceptional customer service. Negative experiences reveal denials of clearly covered claims and prolonged processing delays.
Central Car Insurance Industry Customer Satisfaction Ratings
Central ranks well for financial strength from all industry rating agencies.
AM Best Financial Strength | A (Excellent) | A++ to D- | Central maintains over $2 billion in combined assets and consistently meets its financial obligations to policyholders. |
AM Best Long-Term Credit Standing | Data Not Available | aaa to d | We couldn't find long-term credit rating information. |
S&P Global Financial Strength | Data Not Available | AAA to D | S&P Global doesn't currently rate Central. |
Moody's Financial Strength | Data Not Available | Aaa to C | Moody's doesn't currently rate Central. |
J.D. Power Auto Claims Satisfaction | Data Not Available | 1,000-point scale | Central didn't appear in the 2024 national rankings. |
J.D. Power Digital Service Experience | Data Not Available | 1,000-point scale | Central didn't appear in the 2024 rankings. |
J.D. Power Auto Insurance Shopping Study | Data Not Available | Out of 1,000 | Central didn't appear in the 2024 rankings. |
J.D. Power Overall Customer Satisfaction | Data Not Available | Out of 1,000 | Central didn't appear in the 2024 rankings. |
NAIC Auto Complaints | 0.5 | 1.00 is average | Central receives fewer complaints than expected for its size. |
Central Car Insurance Reddit and Forum Customer Satisfaction
Reddit users and forum members praise Central's competitive regional pricing and personalized agent service. Customers like working with agents who understand local weather patterns, road conditions and area-specific risks. The company's community roots matter to drivers who want more than a call center experience.
Pricing and Value
Its competitive rates and regional market knowledge being key advantages according to forum users:
"Central really understands our local market and their rates reflect that. They're not trying to use some national algorithm that doesn't fit our area - they know what makes sense here."
Claims Processing
Claims processing experiences are generally positive, with customers appreciating local adjusters and regional expertise:
"When I had a claim after the ice storm, Central had adjusters who actually understood our local weather patterns. They knew exactly what kind of damage to expect and handled it efficiently."
"Filed a claim for vandalism in our downtown area and the adjuster was familiar with the neighborhood and local repair shops. Made the whole process much smoother than dealing with some distant corporate office."
Customer Service
Customer service receives solid reviews, with independent agents and local knowledge being frequently mentioned strengths:
"My Central agent is right here in town and knows our family situation. When I needed to add my teenager to the policy, they explained all the local driving risks and discount options."
"The personal service is what keeps me with Central. When I call, I talk to people who understand our area and can actually help solve problems instead of just reading from a script."
Digital Experience
The digital platform receives moderate ratings, with basic functionality available:
"Central's online portal works fine for checking my policy and making payments. It's not the fanciest system out there, but it's reliable and does what I need it to do."
"The mobile app covers the basics, though I'd love to see more features added. For most things I still prefer calling my agent anyway - that personal touch is worth it."
Trust and Reputation
Trust levels are solid among regional customers:
"Central has been serving our region for years and they understand the local market. They're not some faceless corporation - they're part of our community and act like it."
"I trust Central because they've proven themselves during major weather events in our area. When everyone was filing claims, they handled things fairly and efficiently without trying to cut corners."
Coverage Options
Customers appreciate coverage options tailored to regional needs, though some note limitations for specialized situations:
"Central offers solid coverage that makes sense for our area's specific risks. They understand local road conditions, weather patterns, and what drivers here actually need."
"The standard auto coverage is comprehensive and reasonably priced. For basic coverage needs, they're excellent, though if you have specialty vehicles or unique situations, options might be more limited."
"I like that Central works with local repair shops and understands the regional market. The coverage feels designed for people who actually live and drive in our area, not some generic national approach."
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.
Central Car Insurance Coverage Options
Central provides standard coverages like other top insurers, including liability, comprehensive and collision protection. The company also offers these additional add-ons:
Central Signature Auto Policy | Premier auto coverage with worldwide rental coverage, OEM replacement parts, trip interruption coverage | Premium policy with comprehensive protection |
Central Mutual Summit Auto Policy | Auto loan/lease gap coverage, pet injury coverage, lockout coverage, transportation expenses, doubled medical payments | Over a dozen additional benefits not found in basic policies |
Auto Plus Endorsement | Towing and labor coverage, doubled medical payments for seatbelt use, waived collision deductible for parked car damage | Eight valuable coverages added for one low price |
Pet Injury Coverage | Up to coverage amount for pet's veterinary bills if injured in accident | Included in Summit and Signature policies |
Auto Loan/Lease Gap Coverage | Pays difference between car's value and loan balance if totaled | Covers the gap between actual cash value and amount owed |
Lockout Coverage | Assistance when locked out of vehicle | Included with Summit coverage |
Agreed Value Coverage | Pays full amount listed in policy declarations for total loss | Available as add-on to any policy |
Roadside Assistance | 24/7 towing, jump starts, flat tire assistance, lockout service | Automatically included with every personal auto policy |
Parked Auto Collision Coverage | Waived deductible for hit-and-run damage to parked vehicle | Included in Summit and Auto Plus |
Transportation Expenses Coverage | Rental car reimbursement after covered loss | Higher limits available with Summit |
Other Central 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 |
|---|---|
Central (Directly Offered) | Personal auto, homeowners, condo, renters, business, personal umbrella, recreational vehicle (motorhomes, boats, motorcycles, snowmobiles, golf carts) |
Third-Party Partner |
Central Auto Insurance Review: Bottom Line
Central excels in affordability, customer experience and coverage, earning strong rankings overall. It ranks 11th for full coverage and 10th for minimum coverage in our analysis. Still, compare multiple providers, do your research and decide on coverage needs before buying to get the best deal.
Central Car Insurance Reviews: FAQ
Here are MoneyGeek's expert answers to common questions about Central car insurance:
Does Central have a good reputation?
Yes, Central is a legitimate car insurance company that secured 10th place in our comprehensive car insurance provider rankings. It offers good coverage options, where it claims the top spot among all providers we evaluated.
Where is Central the best car insurance company?
Central places in the top five for both states it's ranked in, as well as placing first in New Mexico.
How much does Central car insurance cost on average?
Central charges adults an average of $554 annually for state minimum coverage and $1,431 for full coverage. Annual premiums range from $544 to $4,399 for minimum coverage and $1,396 to $9,429 for full coverage.
Is Central known for denying claims?
Customer feedback indicates Central faces criticism for claim denials, with policyholders reporting rejections for legitimate damages and lengthy processing delays.
Note: This information is limited, based primarily on forum reviews.
Is Central a good option for high-risk drivers?
Central offers strong value for drivers with an accident, ranking sixth overall for affordability among high-risk driver categories.
Does Central raise car insurance rates over time?
Yes, Central and other insurers increase rates over time due to inflation driving up repair and medical expenses, plus rising costs for vehicle parts and advanced technology
Is Central good for young drivers?
No, Central isn't ideal for young drivers, ranking 14th for affordability.
How We Rated Central Car Insurance
Central operates in 15 states across the Midwest and South, where regional insurers can beat national carriers on price. We built our analysis around real ZIP codes in Central's coverage area to show you what you'd actually pay, not national averages that don't reflect your local market.
We pulled rate data from Quadrant Information Services for 79 insurers across every U.S. ZIP code where Central writes policies. This head-to-head comparison reveals which companies compete hardest in your region.
Our baseline driver:
- 40-year-old male
- 2012 Toyota Camry LE
- Clean driving record
- 12,000 miles yearly
- Good credit
- Valid license
- Currently insured with no claims
Clean record? We ran quotes for you. One speeding ticket? We priced that too. Bad credit? We checked those rates. We adjusted age, driving history, credit score and military status because your profile changes which insurer gives you the best deal.
Minimum coverage meets your state's legal requirements. Full coverage includes 100/300/100 liability limits plus comprehensive and collision with $1,000 deductibles, the protection level most lenders require and financial advisors recommend.
How we scored Central:
- Cost (60%) drives our ratings because you're reading this to save money. We compared Central's quotes against local competitors across multiple driver profiles to see where it wins on price.
- Customer satisfaction (30%) separates cheap insurance from good insurance. We pulled reviews from Google, J.D. Power rankings, AM Best financial ratings and Reddit threads to gauge whether Central pays claims fairly and handles customers well.
- Coverage variety (10%) matters when basic liability won't cut it. We examined Central's policy options and coverage add-ons to see what financial protection they actually offer.
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!
He writes about economics and insurance, breaking down complex topics so people know what they're buying.