Full coverage car insurance quotes: what is included?
Full coverage is a common term, not an official type of policy. When people ask for full coverage car insurance quotes, they usually mean liability plus comprehensive and collision, so the policy helps with your own car as well as with damage you cause to others.
Because the phrase is informal, exact details vary by provider. The sections below break it into its parts so you can compare like with like.
What full coverage usually includes
Liability
The foundation. It helps pay for injury and property damage you cause to other people.
Collision
Helps pay to repair or replace your car after hitting another vehicle or an object, such as a pole or guardrail.
Comprehensive
Helps with non-crash damage to your car, including theft, vandalism, fire, hail and hitting an animal.
Often added on top
Many drivers pair these with uninsured motorist coverage, medical payments, rental reimbursement or roadside assistance.
How deductibles shape the price
Collision and comprehensive each have a deductible, the amount you pay toward a repair before the coverage pays the rest. Choosing a higher deductible generally lowers the premium, while a lower one raises it.
A practical way to choose is to ask what amount you could pay tomorrow without strain. Request quotes with two or three deductible levels and see how much the monthly price really moves.
Does full coverage always make sense?
Coverage for your own car pays no more than its actual market value, minus the deductible. On an older vehicle, the yearly cost of collision and comprehensive can approach what the car is worth, so some drivers drop them.
That decision belongs to you, and lenders can limit your choices. Compare the numbers rather than assuming one answer is right.
Who commonly chooses full coverage
Financed or leased vehicles
Lenders typically require collision and comprehensive coverage until the loan or lease ends.
Newer or higher-value cars
A costly repair or total loss is harder to absorb, which makes protection for your own vehicle more valuable.
Drivers who want fewer surprises
If an unexpected repair bill would be a real strain, broader coverage can offer peace of mind.
Good to know
- Ask each provider exactly which coverages their "full coverage" quote contains.
- Gap coverage, which helps when a loan balance exceeds the car's value, is a separate option.
- Exclusions exist, such as wear and tear or mechanical breakdown, which these coverages do not pay for.
- Premiums, limits and availability depend on the provider, your vehicle and your state.
Full coverage questions
No. Despite the name, it does not cover everything. Limits, deductibles and exclusions still apply, and routine maintenance and mechanical failure are generally not included.
Because the insurer takes on the cost of repairing or replacing your own car as well. Providers price that risk using your vehicle, driving history and location.
States generally require liability, not full coverage. A lender or leasing company may require it, though, as a condition of your agreement.
Ask for the same liability limits and the same deductibles from each provider. Then the price differences reflect the provider rather than a different level of protection.
Request full coverage car insurance quotes
Select full coverage in the form, and partner providers can quote it at the deductibles you prefer.
Related coverage
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- Minimum CoverageThe pros and limits of carrying only your state's required coverage.
- Roadside AssistanceTowing, jump-starts and lockout help as an optional add-on.
- Cheap & Affordable QuotesPractical, honest tips for keeping your quotes affordable.
- Auto Insurance Quotes in New YorkWhat New York drivers should know before comparing quotes.
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