Best Car Insurance Companies of 2026

How to buy the best car insurance

Rates and car insurance discounts are generally the most important factors for car insurance buyers. Navigating other factors can point you to the best car insurance options for your situation, priorities and budget.

1. Compare quotes

Comparing car insurance quotes from multiple companies is the best way to zero in on the insurers to consider. Because rates vary significantly across companies and can change frequently, comparing quotes regularly ensures you have the right insurance companies on your radar. In our survey of Wall Street Journal readers, 53% felt they were overpaying for car insurance.

If you’re bundling auto and homeowners insurance, look at the total price tag, as homeowners insurance tends to be the bigger bill of the two. Make sure the total price includes all the discounts you’re entitled to.

When shopping for the best car insurance, look beyond cost. Choosing the cheapest car insurance can cost you in the long term if you encounter poor customer service and claims hassles.

2. Decide what coverage features are important

All car insurance companies offer essential coverage types such as liability, comprehensive and collision insurance. But other coverage features set insurers apart.

For example, maybe you want free accident forgiveness that prevents a rate increase after an at-fault accident. Some insurers only offer accident forgiveness for an extra charge, while others don’t offer it at all.

Or, maybe you want new-car replacement coverage that pays for you to buy a newer model if yours is totaled. These types of coverage aren’t available from every insurance company. Identifying your coverage preferences will help you narrow down your options.

3. Check quality metrics

A variety of quality indicators can steer you away from companies struggling with customer service or poor claims handling. In our analysis, we looked at complaint levels from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners and Insurer Report Cards from the CRASH Network, which grades collision-repair processes by surveying body shops nationwide.

4. Ask friends and family about their experiences

If friends and family members have made recent car insurance claims, find out about their experiences. Was it easy to submit and track the claim? Was it clear what documentation was needed to expedite the claim? Did the insurance company help guide them through their claims processes and offer a fair settlement?

Any car insurance company can seem good when you’re simply paying the bill and renewing every year. Claims reveal the true quality of a company.