Updated: October 6, 2025
Advertising & Editorial Disclosure
Wawanesa holds 17th place for both full coverage and minimum liability coverage affordability with average monthly rates of $131 and $66.
The company achieves seventh place nationwide for customer satisfaction, standing out due to strong agent service and positive forum reviews from policyholders.
Wawanesa secures ninth place for coverage variety, providing options like roadside assistance with lockout service and accident forgiveness programs.
Wawanesa ranks 18th overall nationally, placing it outside the top tier of best car insurance companies for most drivers. The company shines in customer experience (seventh place) and coverage options (ninth place), showing strong performance in service quality and policy features.
But this ranking reflects rates for a 40-year-old male driver with good credit and no driving violations, so the company's position for your specific situation will vary based on your profile and coverage needs.
| Overall Score | 3.74 | 18 |
| Customer Experience | 4.62 | 7 |
| Coverage | 3.21 | 9 |
| Affordability | 3.38 | 19 |
Wawanesa works best for adult drivers, seniors, drivers with accidents and those with DUIs who want affordable coverage. It's not ideal for drivers with newer cars or drivers with speeding tickets.
| Overall Score | 3.71 | 19 |
Your Wawanesa monthly costs range from $54 to $382, depending on your specific situation and coverage choices. To help you make the best decision, we've broken down national average auto insurance costs by age group, gender, coverage, credit score and driving record.
| $217 | $2,603 | 76% | 20 |
Most drivers will find Wawanesa much more expensive than other car insurance companies, including adults, seniors and those with violations or accidents. Below you can review how affordable Wawanesa is for your specific driving category.
| Adult Drivers | $69 | $137 | 52% | 19 |
| Drivers With a DUI | $170 | $315 | 37% | 17 |
| Drivers With an Accident | $149 | $277 | 131% | 20 |
| Drivers With a Speeding Ticket | $137 | $257 | 123% | 20 |
| Drivers With Newer Cars | $89 | $169 | 32% | 17 |
| Drivers With Old Cars | $61 | $114 | 40% | 18 |
| Senior Drivers | $71 | $137 | 29% | 16 |
| Young Drivers | $96 | $190 | -6% | 7 |
*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.
Wawanesa offers 14 car insurance discounts, with average savings of up to 12% depending on your driving profile, involvement in programs and your area. Check out its offerings:
Good Driver | Variable | All drivers licensed for 3+ years, no more than 1 violation/at-fault accident in 3 years, no DUIs in 10 years | Available in CA and OR |
Multi-Car | Variable | Insure more than one vehicle on the same policy (private passenger vehicles, vans, light trucks) | Available in CA and OR |
Loyalty Discount | Up to 22% | Automatically applied after 1 year with Wawanesa, increases annually up to maximum after 15 years | Available in CA and OR |
Multi-Policy/Bundle | Variable | Combine auto with homeowners, condo, or renters insurance policy | Available in CA and OR |
Mature Driver Course | Variable | Drivers 55+ who complete state-approved defensive driving course within 3 years (not court-ordered) | Available in CA and OR |
Affinity Group | Variable | Membership in partnering organizations (e.g., California Coast Credit Union members in CA) | Available in CA and OR |
Vehicle Recovery System | Variable | Anti-theft systems including LoJack, OnStar, OnGuard, Teletrac, or other factory/aftermarket devices | Primarily available in OR |
E-Collect/E-Distribute | Variable | Set up automatic payments and paperless billing | Primarily available in OR |
Military Discount | Variable | Active duty or retired military members | Primarily available in OR |
Driver Training | Variable | New drivers (under 2 years licensed) who complete both Driver Education and Driver Training courses | Primarily available in OR |
Persistency Discount | Variable | Automatic discount if you had car insurance prior to buying Wawanesa policy | Primarily available in OR |
Insurance Score Discount | Variable | Based on favorable insurance score derived from credit report and claim likelihood factors | Available where permitted by law |
Wawanesa earned 7th place for customer experience in MoneyGeek's comprehensive study. Customer feedback reveals the company excels in agent service quality and digital platform functionality, though claims processing generates more complaints than other service areas. Below, we break down the buying, policy management and claims process experiences based on our research.
Wawanesa customers consistently highlight significantly lower rates compared to competitors, with many reporting savings of thousands of dollars annually.
"I've been a Wawanesa Oregon customer since March of 2017. I've not had a single problem. Customer service is fabulous. Everyone is very friendly and professional! Out of all the insurance companies I've tried, they have been the best."
Policies must be purchased through phone representatives rather than online, and availability is limited to California and Oregon. Some long-term customers report sudden, significant rate increases without clear explanations.
Long-term customers often praise individual representatives who are helpful and professional. But many customers report significant communication problems, including unreturned calls and emails, difficulty reaching assigned representatives and long wait times.
"Very bad service. Can not communicate with them. Leave as many messages as you want. Nobody will call back." Some customers describe wait times exceeding four hours when trying to speak with representatives.
Wawanesa's claims experience shows extreme polarization between customers. Some long-term customers praise the company's handling:
"Recently, I had an accident. Everyone from the person who took my report over the phone and helped me with a tow to the team of claims adjusters both internal (repairs to my car) and external (to the other vehicle), were kind, gentle, sensitive, professional and helpful."
But other customers report severe problems with claims processing, including lengthy delays, poor communication, and disputed settlements. Common complaints include:
"I was hit three times. Wawanesa never investigated the claims and all resulted in fault on me" and experiences where customers feel the company "will stall, lie, not return emails, anything they can do to rip you off." Multiple customers describe waiting months for claim resolution.
Wawanesa 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 Wawanesa's scores from industry agencies.
AM Best Financial Strength | A (Excellent) / A+ (Superior) | A++ to D- | Canadian parent: A (Excellent); US subsidiary: A+ (Superior) ability to meet financial obligations |
AM Best Long-Term Credit Standing | a | aaa to d | Good credit quality for both Canadian parent and US subsidiary |
S&P Global Financial Strength | Not Available | AAA to D | No S&P rating found for Wawanesa Insurance |
Moody's Financial Strength | Not Available | Aaa to C | No Moody's rating found for Wawanesa Insurance |
J.D. Power Auto Claims Satisfaction | Not Available | 1,000-point scale | Not included in 2024 J.D. Power Auto Claims Satisfaction Study |
J.D. Power Digital Service Experience | Not Available | 1,000-point scale | Not included in 2024 J.D. Power Digital Experience Study |
J.D. Power Auto Insurance Shopping Study | Not Available | Out of 1,000 | Not specifically mentioned in shopping studies |
J.D. Power Overall Customer Satisfaction | 879-889/1,000 | Out of 1,000 | #1 in California for customer satisfaction (2020-2023, multiple years) |
NAIC Auto Complaints | 1.58 | 1.00 is average | Above average complaints (improved from 2.04 in 2023) |
Reddit users and forum members have different experiences with Wawanesa car insurance, with satisfaction varying based on claims history and driving record quality. The Canadian-founded company, now serving primarily California customers, is known for competitive rates but strict underwriting standards.
Common complaints center around difficult claims processing, poor customer service during disputes and the company's tendency to drop customers after incidents. But some long-term customers praise the competitive pricing and straightforward service for claim-free drivers.
Here's what real customers are saying about their experiences:
Customers generally appreciate Wawanesa's competitive pricing, especially for drivers with clean records:
"Rates are very competitive. No one can beat them. I've made 2 claims in 20 years. Recently, they changed from annual to semi-annual premiums, which I don't like."
Claims handling experiences show significant polarization, with many customers reporting poor treatment during the claims process:
"Gave one star because can't give less than that. Worst claim handling ever by any insurance. I have been through other insurance claims, but Wawanesa was the worst. They ignored the key witness statement in my claim and denied without considering it. The adjuster and supervisor and the all staff lead in bad faith just think about the company not the insured."
"I have had wawanesa for the last 9 years. They have been great each time I have been rear-ended over the years with covering my repairs and going after the other person's insurance."
Customer service experiences varies, with many reporting unresponsive representatives:
"Wawanesa has failed to provide services paid for over the past 6 years, I've been a customer for over 10 years. I have had three claims while with Wawanesa, each one they have failed to provide services paid for, at a high premium I might add! They lie, they are very difficult to get ahold of, and they do not do their job."
"Yes 100% I will recommend WAWANESA . I never find nothing better than WAWANESA INSURANCE, they are reliable. They are consistently good all the times they use their best performance; to help them be trusted. After my friend recommended it to me I did recommend many of my friends."
Wawanesa's digital platforms receive mixed feedback, with some praising online functionality while others note limitations:
"Wawanesa's website clearly outlines coverage details and available auto insurance discounts. You can also pay your bills, view policy information and get your ID card."
"Wawanesa does not currently have a mobile app for California drivers."
Customer trust varies significantly based on individual claim experiences and the company's selective acceptance policies:
"They only insure good drivers, so if you have an incident, or... any claims that are deemed your fault, you are late on ONE payment, they will drop you like a bad habit."
"I've been with Wawanesa for over 26 years, added my wife to the policy after we were married. We have two PHEV, full coverage and the current rate is $1254 /6 months. We never had any major accident."
Customers generally appreciate Wawanesa's coverage options, though availability is limited geographically:
"Wawanesa offers competitive insurance rates, comprehensive coverage options and 24/7 claims services. You have to purchase policies over the phone, though the company provides free quotes online."
"I have Wawanesa. No complaints, good inexpensive insurance if you qualify. I have had a couple of bang-ups in other cars, and they have always come through. I have heard that they will drop you if your driving record isn't up to snuff."
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.
Wawanesa provides standard coverages like other top insurers, including liability, comprehensive and collision protection. The company's additional add-ons include:
Roadside Assistance | Emergency roadside services including towing, battery jump-starts, flat tire changes, fuel delivery, and lockout assistance | Partners with AAA; up to $100 per incident, twice per policy period; 24/7 availability; no out-of-pocket costs |
Rental Car Reimbursement | Covers rental car fees while your vehicle is being repaired or replaced due to a covered claim | Requires comprehensive or collision coverage; available on all insured vehicles |
Special Vehicle Equipment Coverage | Pays for loss or damage to custom equipment and aftermarket modifications beyond standard coverage limits | Covers custom furnishings, electronic equipment, stereo systems, special wheels, and aftermarket parts |
Vehicle Manufacturer Replacement Parts | Ensures repairs use original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts rather than aftermarket replacements | Guarantees OEM parts for repairs; maintains vehicle integrity and warranty compliance |
Uninsured Motorist Collision Waiver | Waives your collision deductible when hit by an uninsured driver | Available only in California; eliminates out-of-pocket deductible costs for uninsured motorist claims |
Windshield Coverage | Free windshield repair and replacement with no deductible | Included with comprehensive coverage; no rate increase for windshield claims; covers chips and cracks |
Here are other insurance types you can bundle with auto coverage or buy separately:
Who Offers It? | Insurance Products |
|---|---|
Wawanesa (Directly Offered) | Auto insurance, homeowners insurance, condominium insurance, renters insurance, personal umbrella insurance, business insurance |
Third-Party Partner | Not specified |
Wawanesa excels in customer experience and coverage variety, earning seventh and ninth place nationally in these categories.
While the company ranks 18th overall and 19th for affordability, it offers competitive rates for young drivers (seventh place) and maintains strong customer satisfaction scores. We recommend you compare quotes and decide on coverage needs before buying to get the best deal.
Below are MoneyGeek's expert answers to frequently asked questions about Wawanesa car insurance:
Yes, Wawanesa is a legitimate car insurance company that secured 18th place in our comprehensive car insurance provider analysis. The insurer particularly excels in customer experience, where it earned an impressive 7th-place ranking.
Based on our comprehensive analysis, Wawanesa does not rank as the number one car insurance provider in any state. But it achieves strong performance in customer experience (seventh place nationally) and coverage options (ninth place nationally).
Wawanesa's average annual cost for adults is $719 for state minimum coverage and $1,497 for full coverage. Rates from Wawanesa span $647 to $2,341 for state minimum and $1,415 to $4,587 for full coverage.
Customer feedback suggests Wawanesa maintains reasonable claim handling practices without widespread denial patterns. While individual claim disputes occur with any insurer, available reviews don't indicate systematic denial tactics or problematic claim resolution strategies at Wawanesa.
Wawanesa isn't ideal for most high-risk drivers, ranking poorly for those with accidents (20th overall) and speeding tickets (20th overall affordability).
Yes, Wawanesa raises rates over time due to inflation impacting repair costs, increased claims from distracted driving and severe weather, plus rising vehicle technology expenses. Rate adjustments also reflect updated area risk assessments, regulatory changes, and personal factors like credit score shifts or age-related risk category changes.
Yes, Wawanesa can be a solid choice for young drivers, ranking 7th for overall affordability with competitive rates below the national average.
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:
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:
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.
