Quick answers

Is Aviva car insurance available across Canada?

Aviva sells auto insurance in many provinces, but availability, coverages, and pricing rules differ by province and sometimes by distribution channel (direct vs broker). In provinces with public auto insurance for basic coverage, Aviva may only offer optional coverages on top of the government plan depending on the province’s system.⁸

Is Aviva “good” for car insurance?

It can be-especially if you value optional add-ons, bundles, and policy customization-but “good” depends on your driver profile, location, vehicle, and how the policy is built. The practical move is to compare an Aviva quote to at least two other insurers using identical limits, deductibles, and add-ons.

Does Aviva offer loss of use (rental car) coverage?

Aviva describes loss of use as an optional add-on that can help cover alternative transportation (like a rental car, transit, taxis) while your vehicle is being repaired after a covered claim, subject to your policy terms and limits.² Ask what triggers coverage, what daily/total limits apply, and whether it applies to both collision and comprehensive claims.

How much does loss of use usually cost?

Aviva’s consumer guidance notes that in most Canadian provinces, adding loss of use coverage typically costs about $20–$50 per year, often for limits in the ballpark of $900–$1,500 (exact pricing and limits vary by policy and province).²

Can Aviva insure new drivers?

Aviva publishes guidance for new drivers, but eligibility and pricing depend heavily on provincial rules, licensing history, driver training, vehicle type, and household drivers.³ If you’re new, ask how adding you to a family policy changes total household cost versus a separate policy.

Can Aviva cover rideshare or delivery driving?

Coverage for rideshare/delivery use is endorsement-driven and varies by province and insurer guidelines. If you do app-based driving, disclose it before binding coverage and request written confirmation of the correct endorsement (and when it applies). Some comparison sources discuss ridesharing-related options in Canada, but availability is not universal.⁴

Aviva car insurance review (Canada) at a glance

When you shop for car insurance, the “best” insurer is usually the one that gives you the right coverage for your risk at a competitive price-and then performs when you need a claim handled. Aviva is a major insurer in Canada and promotes a mix of core auto coverage plus optional add-ons and bundles that can be tailored to your needs (for example, loss of use and packaged optional coverages).¹

Who Aviva is in Canada (and why it matters)

Company size isn’t everything, but it can affect claim infrastructure, repair networks, digital servicing options, and how standardized the customer experience feels across regions. Aviva describes its Canadian business as a national general insurer and notes that Aviva Canada is a leading player in the market (Aviva’s corporate site describes Aviva Canada as the second largest general insurer).¹⁸

What this means for you as a shopper:

• More product options: Larger insurers often offer more endorsements and bundle structures-useful if you want a “built” policy rather than picking everything from scratch.
• More channels: You may interact through a broker, through an online/direct channel, or through insurer service teams depending on your region and product.¹³
• More rules to verify: Coverage triggers, limits, and endorsements still depend on your province and policy form-so don’t assume an add-on works the same way everywhere.

How Aviva auto insurance works in Canada (and why province matters)

Auto insurance in Canada is provincially regulated, which means required coverages, minimum limits, accident benefits structures, and claims rules can vary by province/territory. Aviva’s FAQ content also notes that insurance is regulated by provincial governments/regulators.⁵ Your first “what to do next” step is to confirm your province’s mandatory coverages and then shop within that framework.

It also matters that Canada has a mix of private and public insurance systems. The Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) summarizes that:

• Some provinces/territories use private insurers for mandatory coverage.
• Some require mandatory coverage through a government insurer (with optional coverages sometimes available from private insurers).
• Québec uses a public plan for bodily injury coverage and private insurers for property damage/civil liability coverage.⁸

Finally, how you buy Aviva can change your experience. Aviva offers online/direct buying options in some areas and also operates through brokers in many markets.¹³ If you’re switching, ask who your day-to-day contact is for policy changes and who you call first in a claim.

Mandatory auto insurance by province (quick reference)

The table below is a fast way to understand what your province typically requires at a minimum. This matters because it changes what an “apples-to-apples” quote looks like and which coverages are included by law versus optional add-ons. Mandatory requirements can change, so confirm using your provincial regulator or public insurer, but IBC’s summary is a useful starting point.⁸

Price benchmarks (what Canadians often pay, and why it varies)

Aviva (and every other insurer) prices risk. That means your quote depends on location, vehicle, driving record, claims history, annual distance, how the vehicle is used, and the coverages/deductibles you choose. Benchmarks help you sanity-check whether a quote is “in the normal zone,” but your real price can be far above or below an average.

Those numbers highlight a key truth: city and region can move your premium dramatically. Even within the same province, the GTA average is meaningfully higher than rural averages, which is why “city pages” and local quote comparisons can look very different even when coverage is identical.¹¹

Another example of a measurable price driver is auto theft. IBC notes that auto theft adds an estimated amount to the average annual premium in Ontario (IBC’s estimate is about $130).¹⁹ Your own impact depends on your vehicle’s theft risk and your postal code.

What usually changes a quote the most

Coverage options and add-ons you can ask Aviva about

Most drivers start with the basics (liability and, where applicable, physical damage options like collision and comprehensive), then decide which optional coverages are worth paying for. Aviva promotes optional coverage packages and add-ons, which can be useful if you want a more complete policy without building it from scratch.¹

Your next step here: list the top 2–3 situations that would hurt financially (rental car costs, a newer vehicle write-off, a not-at-fault hit-and-run, theft) and ask Aviva how each scenario is covered under your quote.

Liability limits: why most people buy more than the minimum

Many provinces have a legal minimum liability amount, but minimums are often low compared to real-world loss potential. Ontario’s regulator notes you are legally required to carry a minimum of $200,000 in third-party liability, and also notes that increasing to higher limits (like $1 million or $2 million) is often a small cost in most cases.¹⁰

What to do next: Ask for the premium difference between $200,000 / $1,000,000 / $2,000,000 (or your province’s common options). This is one of the highest-value questions you can ask because the upside protection can be large for a relatively small premium change.

Loss of use (rental/transportation coverage)

Aviva explains loss of use as an optional add-on that can help cover alternative transportation costs (rental car, transit, taxis) if your vehicle can’t be used after a covered claim, subject to policy terms and limits.² This is one of the most practical add-ons for commuters and families with one primary vehicle.

What to do next: Ask (1) whether coverage applies for both collision and comprehensive claims, (2) whether it applies if you’re not at fault, and (3) what the daily and maximum limits are for your specific quote.

Accident rating waiver / accident forgiveness (availability varies)

Aviva’s quote pages describe an “Accident Rating Waiver” concept: protecting the automobile’s driving record from being affected by the first at-fault accident (availability and eligibility vary).¹² These options can be valuable for long-time safe drivers, but they typically come with conditions.

What to do next: Ask for the eligibility rules (years claims-free, years licensed, household drivers) and confirm whether the waiver protects the driver’s rating, the vehicle’s rating, or both.

Disappearing deductible and deductible options

Aviva’s product pages describe “disappearing deductible” as a benefit that reduces your deductible over time for each year you don’t make a claim (availability varies by province/product).¹² Even if you don’t choose a disappearing deductible feature, deductible selection is still a major lever in your premium.

What to do next: Price two deductible options (for example, a higher and lower deductible) and decide what you could comfortably pay out of pocket after a claim.

Bundled optional coverage packages

Aviva promotes optional bundles (example: a “Worry-Free Bundle”) that can include multiple add-ons such as travel costs and other optional coverages depending on province and eligibility.¹² Bundles can be efficient-if every included item is something you would actually buy.

What to do next: Request a quote version with the bundle and one without it. Then compare the price difference against the value you get from the included items.

Collision and comprehensive (physical damage)

Collision and comprehensive often make sense when the vehicle is newer, financed/leased, or expensive to repair. Your premium will depend on vehicle value, claim/loss experience, and deductible selection.

What to do next: Confirm whether windshield damage falls under comprehensive and whether a deductible applies for glass claims (rules vary and policy wording matters). Aviva’s consumer content notes that windshield replacement is generally covered if it falls under comprehensive or other coverage, and policy details (like deductibles) can change what you pay out of pocket.²⁰

Coverage for new drivers (household setup matters)

Aviva provides guidance aimed at new drivers, which is useful if you’re adding a newly licensed driver to a household policy or shopping as a first-time buyer.³ In practice, pricing is driven by licensing history, training, vehicle type, and where the vehicle is kept.

What to do next: If you’re a parent/guardian, ask for two scenarios-adding the new driver to your policy vs a separate policy-so you can see the total household cost difference.

Rideshare/delivery use (must be disclosed)

Rideshare and delivery use can change underwriting and coverage and usually requires the correct endorsement. Some market roundups discuss ridesharing-related options, but endorsements vary by province and insurer rules.⁴ Disclose your usage before binding coverage so you don’t accidentally create a coverage gap.

What to do next: Tell the broker/insurer exactly how you use the vehicle (app on/off, passenger carrying, delivery only) and ask what endorsement applies and when coverage starts/stops.

Roadside assistance: what it usually includes

Roadside assistance is often offered as a standalone membership or as an add-on through some insurers/bundles. Aviva’s consumer guidance describes common roadside services such as towing, flat tire help, battery boosts, and fuel delivery (coverage and availability vary by plan/provider).²¹

What to do next: If you already have roadside coverage through a vehicle manufacturer program, credit card, or membership, compare it against any insurance add-on so you don’t pay twice for the same service.

Discounts and savings: what to ask for

Discount availability varies by province, driver profile, and how you buy the policy (direct vs broker). Aviva promotes insurance savings through quoting and packaging, but the exact discounts you qualify for depend on your details and underwriting rules.¹

What to do next: When you request a quote, ask the representative to confirm which discounts were applied and which you might qualify for with small changes (for example, bundling, changing annual mileage, or adjusting deductibles).

Common discount categories to ask about

• Bundling: home + auto (and sometimes condo/tenant + auto) can price differently than standalone.
• Multi-vehicle: insuring more than one vehicle in the household.
• Driver history: years licensed, claims-free history, and conviction-free periods (rules vary).
• Vehicle and usage: annual mileage, commute distance, and whether the vehicle is used for business.
• Payment plan: monthly vs annual payment totals can differ; compare the annual total, not just the monthly number.
• Telematics/usage-based options: available with some insurers and in some regions; eligibility rules differ.
• Winter tires (where relevant): may help in some provinces/insurers; documentation requirements vary.

Discount proof checklist (bring this to the quote call)

• Driver training certificate (for new drivers, if applicable)
• Vehicle ownership/lease documents (to confirm purchase date and trim)
• Annual mileage estimate (recent odometer reading helps)
• Home policy details (if bundling)
• Winter tire proof (receipt or photo, if your insurer requires it)

How to avoid “discount disappointment” at renewal

Discounts can change if your situation changes (address, commute, drivers, vehicle, or claims/convictions). At renewal, ask for a written explanation of what changed (coverage, rating, discounts, or underwriting tier) so you can decide whether to shop.

How to compare Aviva quotes properly

Most negative “reviews” of any insurer come from mismatched expectations: the buyer thought they were getting one thing, but the policy actually provided another. The cleanest way to evaluate Aviva is to compare it on a controlled basis.

What to do next: Build a simple comparison template and use it for every quote you request.

Apples-to-apples quote checklist

• Same liability limit (or the closest equivalent available in your province).
• Same deductibles for collision and comprehensive (if included).
• Same drivers and usage (commute, business use, occasional drivers).
• Same optional coverages (loss of use, accident waiver, bundles, etc.).
• Same vehicle details (trim, safety features, anti-theft, winter tires if applicable).
• Same payment plan (monthly vs annual) when comparing totals.

Direct vs broker: why it matters

Some shoppers prefer a broker who can market-shop and help interpret coverage differences; others prefer dealing directly. Aviva also promotes online/direct options (“Aviva Direct”) in some markets.¹³

What to do next: Ask who will service policy changes, who you contact for documents, and who advocates during claims (and what happens after hours). Also ask how quickly endorsements can be added (adding a new vehicle, driver, or business use).

Claims experience and service: what to check before you buy

Price matters, but claims handling is where the policy becomes “real.” Online reviews can be polarized, and third-party review roundups may highlight strong opinions rather than typical outcomes.⁷ Your best move is to verify the process and set expectations before you need it.

What to do next: Ask Aviva (or your broker) to walk you through three simple scenarios: (1) windshield claim, (2) not-at-fault rear-end collision, (3) theft/vandalism. You’re listening for clarity on documentation, repair networks, rental coverage, and timelines.

How to report a claim

Aviva describes multiple ways to report claims (online and by phone) and provides a claims contact number on its claims pages.¹⁴ Your exact steps can still vary by province/product, so confirm where to start for auto claims in your region.

Questions to ask about claims (practical, not theoretical)

• Who do I call first after an accident, and what information should I collect?
• Can I choose my repair shop, and how does the estimate/approval process work?
• If my car is not drivable, what happens next (towing, storage, rental/loss of use)?
• How are deductibles applied if I’m not at fault (varies by province and circumstances)?
• How do you handle disputes about repair quality or total loss valuation?

Complaints and disputes (what to do if you hit a wall)

Most issues are solved faster when you follow the expected complaint pathway and keep records. The typical order is: insurer internal complaints process → written final position letter → escalation to the appropriate regulator/ombud options depending on the situation and province.

Step-by-step complaint path (Canada-friendly)

• Step 1: File your complaint with the insurer and request the complaint officer contact and written response. Government guidance notes insurers have internal complaint-handling processes.¹⁶
• Step 2: Ask for a final position letter if the issue isn’t resolved. Ontario’s regulator outlines a process requiring a final position letter before certain escalations.¹⁵
• Step 3: If you still can’t resolve it, contact the appropriate dispute-resolution body. For general insurance complaints, the General Insurance OmbudService (GIO) is a recognized option in Canada.¹⁷

Who Aviva may be best for (and who should shop around)

Aviva can be a good fit when you want a mainstream insurer with optional coverages and bundles and you’re able to align the policy to your real-world needs (rental coverage, physical damage, and specific endorsements). It can also be attractive if bundling produces meaningful net savings.

What to do next: Decide whether you’re optimizing for lowest price, best coverage, or easiest service-and then shop accordingly.

Aviva may be a strong option if you:

• Want optional add-ons like loss of use and prefer to customize coverage.²
• Prefer optional bundles that package multiple coverages together (and you’ve confirmed the bundle’s details).¹²
• Are bundling multiple policies and the combined price is competitive.
• Want the flexibility of online/direct management in markets where it’s available.¹³

You should shop around (even if you like Aviva) if you:

• Had a major life change (moved, changed commute, added a driver, changed vehicles).
• Need specialized use (rideshare/delivery) and want written confirmation of endorsements and gaps.⁴
• Are renewing and the premium changed without a clear explanation-get two comparison quotes.
• Want a very specific coverage feature (example: specific loss-of-use limits or deductible structures) and need to confirm it exists in your province.

Switching checklist (what to do next)

• Step 1: Pull your current declarations page and list coverages, deductibles, and endorsements.
• Step 2: Request an Aviva quote with identical coverages first, then a second version with your preferred add-ons (like loss of use).²
• Step 3: Ask for the total annual cost and the monthly payment total (if paying monthly) so you’re comparing the same thing.
• Step 4: Confirm how claims are reported and handled in your province and through your chosen channel (broker vs direct).¹⁴
• Step 5: If you switch, coordinate cancellation dates so you don’t create a coverage gap.
• Step 6: Re-check your policy after binding to ensure the requested endorsements actually appear on the documents.

Decision flow: should you choose Aviva?

flowchart TD
A[Start Aviva quote] --> B{Same coverages as current policy}
B -->|No| C[Align liability deductibles add ons then re quote]
B -->|Yes| D{Need optional add ons}
D -->|Yes| E[Confirm wording limits eligibility]
D -->|No| F[Compare base price and service]
E --> G{Claims process clear for province and channel}
F --> G
G -->|No| H[Ask for step by step claims walk through]
G -->|Yes| I{Total cost competitive vs other quotes}
I -->|No| J[Shop more insurers or adjust coverage]
I -->|Yes| K[Choose Aviva and verify documents]

FAQs

Is Aviva a direct insurer or do I need a broker?

It depends on your province and how Aviva distributes policies in your area. Aviva also promotes online/direct options in some markets.¹³ What to do next: ask who your servicing contact is for changes and who you call first for claims.

Does Aviva offer optional coverage packages?

Yes-Aviva promotes optional coverage packages and add-ons that can be included with a quote, depending on your province and eligibility.¹ What to do next: request a quote version with the package and one without it to see the price difference.

What is loss of use and do I need it?

Aviva describes loss of use as an optional add-on that can help cover alternative transportation while your vehicle is being repaired after a covered claim, subject to limits and policy terms.² What to do next: if you rely on your car daily, price it both ways and compare the added premium to the inconvenience and cost of being without a vehicle.

How do I increase my liability limit?

Ask for higher liability options when you quote. Ontario’s regulator notes that while $200,000 is the legal minimum in Ontario, increasing to $500,000, $1 million, or $2 million is often a small cost in most cases.¹⁰ What to do next: request the premium difference between your current limit and $1M or $2M.

Can I switch to Aviva mid-policy?

In many cases you can switch insurers mid-term, but cancellation rules, fees, and timing vary by insurer and province. What to do next: confirm your current insurer’s cancellation terms and set the Aviva effective date to avoid any gap.

Why do Aviva reviews look mixed online?

Online reviews often reflect a small subset of experiences and can skew negative when people post after a stressful claim or billing issue. Third-party review roundups may also highlight strong opinions rather than typical outcomes.⁷ What to do next: focus on policy wording, claims steps, and quote comparability-then decide based on your needs.

Is auto insurance regulated in Canada?

Yes-insurance regulation is provincial/territorial, and mandatory coverages differ by province.⁸ What to do next: confirm your province’s required coverages and minimums before comparing optional add-ons.

What should I do if I have a complaint?

Start with the insurer’s internal complaint process and request written resolution. Government guidance explains complaint-handling steps and emphasizes contacting the company first.¹⁶ If unresolved, follow your province’s escalation steps (Ontario’s regulator outlines a process that includes a final position letter), and consider the General Insurance OmbudService for general insurance complaints.¹⁵¹⁷

Sources (numbered footnotes)

1. Aviva Canada (auto insurance and optional coverages / packages). https://www.aviva.ca/en/insurance/auto
2. Aviva Canada (loss of use coverage and typical cost range). https://www.aviva.ca/en/blog/what-does-loss-of-use-mean-in-car-insurance/
3. Aviva Canada (car insurance for new drivers). https://www.aviva.ca/en/blog/car-insurance-for-new-drivers/
4. WOWA (market overview; notes differences across systems and mentions ridesharing-related discussion). https://wowa.ca/best-car-insurance-canada
5. Aviva Canada FAQ (regulation context). https://www.aviva.ca/en/tools/faq/
6. Rates.ca (company overview page used as secondary context). https://rates.ca/insurance-quotes/auto/companies/aviva
7. Ratehub (industry roundup used for context on consumer review variability). https://www.ratehub.ca/blog/best-car-insurance-companies-canada/
8. Insurance Bureau of Canada (mandatory auto insurance requirements by province/territory). https://www.ibc.ca/insurance-basics/auto/types-of-auto-coverage/mandatory-auto-insurance-requirements
9. FSRA (Ontario) (increasing third-party liability coverage; notes $200,000 minimum and higher limits). https://www.fsrao.ca/consumers/auto-insurance/purchasing-your-policy/increasing-your-liability-and-accident-benefits-coverage
10. FSRA (Ontario) (average annual premium by region; Ontario/GTA/other urban/rural). https://www.fsrao.ca/consumers/auto-insurance/understanding-auto-insurance-rates/your-average-premium
11. Aviva Canada (example optional coverages shown in quote pages such as accident rating waiver, disappearing deductible, bundles). https://www.aviva.ca/en/find-insurance/vehicle/personal-auto-insurance/
12. Aviva Canada (Aviva Direct overview). https://www.aviva.ca/en/direct/
13. Aviva Canada (claims / make a claim contact and process). https://www.aviva.ca/en/claim/make-a-claim/
14. FSRA (Ontario) (how to resolve an auto insurance complaint). https://www.fsrao.ca/how-resolve-auto-insurance-complaint
15. Government of Canada (how to file a complaint about your insurance company). https://www.canada.ca/en/financial-consumer-agency/services/insurance/make-complaint.html
16. General Insurance OmbudService (GIO) (start a complaint). https://giocanada.org/
17. Aviva plc (corporate overview noting Aviva Canada market position). https://www.aviva.com/about-us/how-we-are-organised/
18. Insurance Bureau of Canada (auto theft premium impact estimate for Ontario context). https://www.ibc.ca/news-insights/in-focus/top-five-reasons-auto-insurance-premiums-have-increased
19. Aviva Canada (windshield/coverage educational content; deductibles and coverage vary by policy). https://www.aviva.ca/en/blog/windshield-replacement-only-stones-throw-away/
20. Aviva Canada (roadside assistance overview; services vary by plan/provider). https://www.aviva.ca/en/blog/access-roadside-assistance-in-canada/

Disclaimer: This article is for general educational information only and is not a quote, contract, or legal advice. Coverage availability, eligibility, and required auto insurance rules vary by province/territory and by insurer. Always confirm details with Aviva, your broker, and your provincial/territorial regulator or public auto insurer (where applicable) before purchasing or changing coverage.