Mercury ranks 28th overall nationally, placing it outside the top tier of best car insurance companies. Despite this lower overall ranking, Mercury shows strong performance in coverage options and customer experience, earning ninth place rankings in both categories.
Mercury Car Insurance Review
Updated: September 22, 2025
Advertising & Editorial Disclosure
Key Takeaways
Mercury places 27th for full coverage affordability and 29th for minimum liability coverage with average monthly rates of $146 and $73 respectively.
Mercury earns ninth place nationwide for customer satisfaction, standing out with strong agent service and positive forum reviews from policyholders.
Mercury ranks ninth for coverage variety, offering distinctive options like roadside assistance with lockout service and accident forgiveness programs.
Mercury Car Insurance Ratings
| Overall Score | 3.99 | 28 |
| Customer Experience | 4.57 | 9 |
| Coverage | 3.58 | 9 |
| Affordability | 3.76 | 31 |
Who Is Mercury Car Insurance Best and Worst For?
Mercury is ranked low for most categories of drivers. But it does provide coverage add-ons that can be useful. High-risk drivers should consider other options since Mercury's savings are minimal for these profiles.
Data filtered by:Results filtered by:
Select
Age Group:Adult Drivers
Select
Gender:Female
Select
Coverage Level:100/300/100,000 - 1000 comp_coll
Select
Credit Alignment:Below Fair
Select
Driving Record:At Fault Accident ($1000-$1999 Prop Dmg)
| Overall Score | 3.86 | 32 |
Mercury Car Insurance Ratings by State
Mercury ranks within the top five companies in seven of the states and territories across the United States.
| California | 3.96 | 6 |
| Florida | 4.32 | 4 |
| Georgia | 4.01 | 6 |
| Nevada | 4.17 | 7 |
| New Jersey | 3.80 | 10 |
| New York | 3.70 | 12 |
| Oklahoma | 4.13 | 3 |
| Texas | 4.23 | 5 |
| Virginia | 4.27 | 6 |
*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 Mercury Car Insurance Cost?
Mercury monthly premiums vary widely from $52 to $1,836 based on your profile and coverage choices. To help you make the best decision, we've broken down national car insurance costs by age group, gender, coverage, credit score and driving record.
Data filtered by:Results filtered by:
Select
Age Group:Adult Drivers
Select
Gender:Female
Select
Credit Alignment:Below Fair
Select
Driving Record:At Fault Accident ($1000-$1999 Prop Dmg)
Select
Coverage Level:100/300/100,000 - 1000 comp_coll
| $420 | $5,045 | 52% | 31 |
Mercury Car Insurance Rates by Driver Category
Mercury will be much more expensive on average for most drivers, including young drivers, seniors and those with violations. You can review how affordable Mercury is for your specific driving category below compared to other car insurance companies.
| Adult Drivers | $78 | $155 | 37% | 31 |
| Drivers With a DUI | $125 | $244 | 15% | 24 |
| Drivers With an Accident | $143 | $276 | 74% | 33 |
| Drivers With a Speeding Ticket | $103 | $206 | 50% | 32 |
| Drivers With Bad Credit | $121 | $259 | 11% | 27 |
| Drivers With Low Income | $89 | $195 | 31% | 31 |
| Drivers With Newer Cars | $83 | $167 | 10% | 24 |
| Drivers With Old Cars | $66 | $130 | 31% | 30 |
| Senior Drivers | $107 | $207 | 49% | 33 |
| Young Drivers | $226 | $447 | 77% | 32 |
*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 are 25 and under, adults 26 to 64 and seniors 65+. We changed the vehicle age to 2007 for older cars and 2025 for newer ones.
Mercury Car Insurance Rates by State
Mercury's monthly rates range from $39 to $239 across states on average. The company ranks among the top five most affordable insurers in three out of 51 states and territories. You can review Mercury's affordability and pricing for your area below.
| California | $66 | $139 | -10% | 4 |
| Florida | $85 | $206 | -15% | 6 |
| Georgia | $72 | $136 | -2% | 6 |
| Nevada | $77 | $151 | -2% | 6 |
| New Jersey | $159 | $239 | 39% | 11 |
| New York | $104 | $200 | 67% | 12 |
| Oklahoma | $39 | $109 | -21% | 4 |
| Texas | $54 | $133 | -14% | 4 |
| Virginia | $46 | $82 | -14% | 6 |
*Rates are based on a 40-year-old male driver with good credit, no driving violations and a 2012 Toyota Camry.
Mercury Car Insurance Discounts
Mercury offers 13 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/Bundle | Up to 14.5% | Must have 2+ policies with Mercury (auto + home, condo, or renters insurance) | Available nationwide in all 11 Mercury states |
Multi-Car | Variable | 2+ vehicles on policy at same address | Available nationwide in all 11 Mercury states |
Good Student | 10-15% | Students aged 16-25, unmarried, 3.0+ GPA or B average, full-time enrollment | Available nationwide in all 11 Mercury states |
MercuryGO (Teen Driver) | 10% enrollment + up to 40% renewal | Teen drivers 18 or younger, must enroll in app-based driving program | Available in Arizona, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, New Jersey, Oklahoma, Texas, Virginia |
MercuryGO (Adult Driver) | 5% enrollment + up to 40% renewal | Adult drivers, must enroll in app-based safe driving program | Available in Arizona, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, New Jersey, Oklahoma, Texas, Virginia |
Good Driver | Up to 20% | No accidents or violations for specified period (typically 3-5 years) | Available nationwide in all 11 Mercury states |
Mature Driver | Up to 16% | Age 55+, clean driving record, completed DMV-approved mature driver course | Available in California and other select states |
Anti-Theft Device | Variable | Vehicle equipped with qualifying anti-theft device (alarm, tracking system, immobilizer) | Available nationwide in all 11 Mercury states |
Auto Pay | Variable | Set up automatic monthly or annual premium payments | Available nationwide in all 11 Mercury states |
Pay-in-Full | Variable | Pay entire annual premium upfront instead of monthly installments | Available nationwide in all 11 Mercury states |
E-Signature | Variable | Sign policy documents electronically | Available nationwide in all 11 Mercury states |
RealDrive (Low Mileage) | 5% enrollment + up to 20% based on miles | Participate in pay-per-mile program, report odometer readings | Available in California and select states |
Distant Student | Variable | Student under 23, attending school 100+ miles from home, no regular car access at school | Available in select Mercury states |
Mercury Car Insurance Customer Reviews and Reputation
Mercury ranked ninth in overall customer satisfaction in MoneyGeek's comprehensive customer experience study. It excels in agent service and digital platform usability, though claims processing generates more complaints than other areas.
Buying Process Experience
Mercury offers both online and agent-assisted quoting processes, with customers praising the "easiest online service and registration" and "best quote on auto". The company was recognized as number one in J.D. Power's 2021 Digital Insurance Shopping Experience study.
Some customers report unexpected rate increases shortly after purchase, with agents changing quoted amounts due to "misinformation" on applications they didn't complete themselves.
Policy Management
Mercury's mobile app provides comprehensive policy management, including digital ID cards with Apple/Google Wallet integration, secure payment options, policy changes and fingerprint/face ID login.
Customers like the app's ease of use and convenience. However, some users report slow performance issues, taking over 5 minutes to login with occasional "could not load data" errors.
Claims Experience
Mercury offers 24/7 claims filing online or by phone, with repairs guaranteed for life when completed at Mercury-authorized shops. Positive experiences highlight efficient processing and helpful adjusters.
Mercury ranked last out of 21 insurers in J.D. Power's 2024 Auto Claims Satisfaction study, with customers reporting denied claims, slow claim resolution, adversarial adjusters and unexpected rate increases after filing claims.
Mercury Car Insurance Industry Customer Satisfaction Ratings
Mercury 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 Mercury's scores from industry agencies.
AM Best Financial Strength | A (Excellent) | A++ to D- | Strong ability to meet financial obligations and pay claims, but outlook revised to negative due to California wildfire exposure |
AM Best Long-Term Credit Standing | a | aaa to d | Good credit quality with adequate capacity to meet long-term financial commitments |
S&P Global Financial Strength | A- | AAA to D | Strong financial security but lowest level within "A" category, negative outlook due to wildfire losses |
Moody's Financial Strength | A3 | Aaa to C | Upper-medium grade with good financial security, negative outlook due to California concentration |
J.D. Power Auto Claims Satisfaction | 663/1,000 | 1,000-point scale | Ranked last out of 21 companies (industry average: 697) |
J.D. Power Digital Service Experience | Not Available | 1,000-point scale | Not included in 2024 study rankings |
J.D. Power Auto Insurance Shopping Study | Bottom 2 of ranked companies | Out of ranked companies | Ranked second to last among assessed companies in 2025 |
J.D. Power Overall Customer Satisfaction | Above average (regional) | Out of regional competitors | Above average performance in overall satisfaction but below average in California market |
NAIC Auto Complaints | 1.66 | 1.00 is average | 66% more complaints than expected for insurer of its size (2023 data) |
Mercury Car Insurance Reddit and Forum Customer Satisfaction
Reddit users and forum members appreciate Mercury's competitive rates and availability in California, where many larger insurers have limited coverage. Some drivers value the company's mechanical breakdown coverage and rideshare insurance options, though experiences vary significantly.
Common complaints include unexpected rate increases, poor claims handling, and difficulties reaching customer service representatives. Many customers report frustrations with policy cancellations, inadequate claim settlements, and lack of transparency in billing practices.
Here's what real customers are saying about their experiences on forums:
Pricing and Value
Initial competitive rates attract customers, but many face significant and unexplained rate increases, particularly affecting long-term policyholders:
"Yikes - I just called and Mercury will be raising my rates by 25% through no fault of my own. They stated that due to overall increases in Mercury's rates, they are implementing a hike of 25% or more for all their customers. No email was sent out about this, and they have set policies to auto-renew online, possibly so customers don't notice."
"Without a doubt the worst company I have ever dealt with. My auto insurance rates have gone up approximately $1000 with no at fault claims. They literally told me their BOD had a meeting and decided to raise rates because they could."
Claims Processing
Mercury ranked last out of 21 companies in J.D. Power's 2024 Auto Claims Satisfaction Study, with mixed customer experiences ranging from efficient handling to complete frustration:
"My claim was processed efficiently and [with] care to every detail. My adjuster was a true blessing in making sure my every need was addressed without delay."
"BEWARE OF MERCURY INSURANCE... My experience with Mercury has been nothing short of a nightmare. We filed a claim in December 2024 for hail damage to our 10-year-old roof, supported by inspections from two different roofing companies confirming the damage. Despite clear evidence, Mercury's adjuster sent an inspector who dismissed it as 'wear and tear,' and denied our claim."
Customer Service
Customer service experiences show significant inconsistency, with some praising responsiveness while others struggle to reach representatives:
"Mercury is extremely hard to get on the phone, as usually they operate as a 'team' and you basically need to leave a voice message and someone from the team will call you eventually."
"I have repeatedly reached out to my agent and did not hear anything back. My agent never calls when requested. I never hear anything unless I press them for information."
Digital Experience
Mercury offers basic digital services through its website and mobile apps, though the claims process still requires phone contact for many issues:
"You can make payments, download ID cards and view policy documents via Mercury's website. The company also has a blog with articles on various insurance topics, as well as tips for safer driving."
"Mercury doesn't provide a way to cancel your insurance policy online or through its mobile app. Instead, it indicates that you should contact your insurance agent if you want to cancel or make significant changes to your policy."
Trust and Reputation
Despite an A.M. Best "A" (Excellent) rating, customer trust varies significantly, with Mercury's NAIC complaint index of 2.48 indicating more complaints than average for its size:
"Mercury is considered one of the inferior insurance companies. They include charges on your bill that are optional. For example, they include the cost of earthquake coverage as part of the total amount due, even though it's not necessary."
"I had a major claim with Mercury after significant damage to my home and I couldn't be happier with how fast and efficient the entire process was handled. Within just three weeks, Mercury had reviewed everything and deposited the full dwelling damages directly into my bank account without any issues."
Coverage Options
Mercury provides standard coverage options with some unique features like mechanical breakdown coverage, though customers report issues with policy renewals and sudden cancellations:
"They dropped all properties for 'unspecified dog breeds with unknown bite history.' We have a Pyrenees puppy that we rescued with no bite history. Which we told them. They dropped us anyway."
"This is a good company that process claims without any issue. However, they increase my insurance every year and I find much cheaper insurances from other company."
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.
Mercury Car Insurance Coverage Options
Mercury provides standard coverages like other major insurers, including liability, comprehensive and collision protection. The company also offers additional add-ons such as:
Roadside Assistance | 24/7 dispatch of roadside service professionals for breakdowns | Covers lockouts, battery jumps, flat tire changes, fuel delivery; towing coverage with limits: 15 miles ($75), 100 miles ($500), or 200 miles ($1,000) |
Rental Car Reimbursement | Cost of rental car while your vehicle is being repaired after accident | Coverage limits from $30-$100 per day for up to 30 days; covers rental rate, mileage, and taxes |
Gap Insurance | Covers difference between loan balance and vehicle's current value if totaled | Protects from paying out-of-pocket for car you can no longer drive; critical for financed/leased vehicles |
Custom Equipment Coverage | Repair or replacement of aftermarket upgrades if damaged or stolen | Protects stereos, navigation systems, custom wheels, and other modifications |
Rideshare Coverage | Protection when driving for Uber/Lyft with app on but no passenger accepted | Fills coverage gap during period when personal policy may not apply; as little as $0.90 per day |
Mechanical Breakdown Protection | Covers major mechanical failures like transmission and engine issues | Up to 7 years or 100,000 miles coverage; includes 24-hour roadside assistance, rental vehicle assistance, road hazard tire protection |
Other Mercury Insurance Coverage Options to Consider
You have several insurance options beyond auto coverage that work well as bundle deals or individual policies:
Who Offers It? | Insurance Products |
|---|---|
Mercury (Directly Offered) | Auto insurance, homeowners insurance, condo insurance, renters insurance, business insurance, umbrella insurance, mechanical breakdown protection, motorcycle insurance, boat insurance |
Third-Party Partner | Flood insurance, pet insurance, life insurance, travel insurance, identity theft protection, dental insurance, vision insurance, health insurance, jewelry insurance, wedding/event insurance, phone insurance |
Mercury Auto Insurance Review: Bottom Line
Mercury ranks 28th overall with mixed performance. While it offers decent coverage options (9th place), it struggles with affordability (31st) and ranked last in J.D. Power's 2024 Claims Satisfaction study. We recommend you compare insurers to get the best deal.
Mercury Car Insurance Reviews: FAQ
Below are MoneyGeek's expert answers to frequently asked questions about Mercury car insurance:
Does Mercury insurance have a good reputation?
Yes, Mercury is a legitimate car insurance company that ranked 28th overall in our comprehensive car insurance provider study. The insurer particularly excels in coverage and customer experience, where it earned ninth place rankings.
Where is Mercury the best car insurance company?
Mercury isn't the number one option for car insurance in any state, but it is a top five option in a good number of states it operates in.
How much does Mercury car insurance cost on average?
Mercury costs an average of $913 annually for minimum coverage and $1,810 for full coverage for adults. Annual rates span $619 to $9,602 for minimum and $1,352 to $18,580 for full coverage.
Is Mercury known for denying claims?
Customer feedback suggests Mercury faces criticism for claim denials, with some policyholders reporting disputes over coverage interpretations and settlement amounts. However, comprehensive data on their denial patterns remains limited beyond individual consumer experiences.
Note: This represents limited information based primarily on forum reviews.
Is Mercury a good option for high-risk drivers?
Mercury ranks poorly for most high-risk drivers. It's not a good option for drivers with accidents (33rd overall), speeding tickets (32nd overall), or bad credit (27th overall).
Does Mercury raise car insurance rates over time?
Yes, Mercury raises rates over time due to inflation driving up repair and medical costs, plus increased claims from distracted driving and severe weather. They also adjust pricing based on area risk changes, state regulations, and personal factors like credit score shifts, regardless of your driving record.
Is Mercury good for young drivers?
Mercury tends to increase rates over time, making it a poor choice for young drivers with their 32nd place affordability ranking among insurers.
How We Rated Mercury 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.