Choosing the right auto insurance is an important decision that can save you money and provide important protection, and USAA auto insurance is one option.
Many consider the company due to its reputation for good customer service and competitive rates.
In this comprehensive USAA auto insurance review for 2024, we will look at USAA’s coverage options, discounts, customer service, claims process, and more.
We will also compare USAA to other top insurance providers to help you determine if it is the best choice for your needs.
Overview of USAA Auto Insurance
USAA is only available to current and former military members and their families.
It offers standard coverage options, including liability, collision, comprehensive and more.
Policyholders can also add extras like roadside assistance and rental reimbursement.
Some key highlights about USAA auto insurance include:
- Excellent financial strength ratings – Rated A++ (Superior) by AM Best, indicating excellent ability to pay claims.
- High customer satisfaction – Ranks well above average in J.D. Power customer satisfaction surveys.
- Many discounts available – Offers discounts for things like bundling policies, paying in full, good driving history, and more.
- Usage-based insurance – Offers a program called SafePilot that bases rates partially on driving habits.
- Strong military benefits – Special coverage and discounts geared towards military members.
- Helpful claims process – High marks for claims handling based on surveys.
Next, let’s look more in-depth at USAA’s coverage, discounts, ratings, and customer service.
USAA Auto Insurance Coverage Options
USAA offers all the standard types of auto insurance coverage. Here are some details on what is available:
- Liability insurance – Covers injury and property damage you cause to others. Split into bodily injury and property damage. Required in most states.
- Collision – Covers damage to your vehicle from a collision regardless of fault. Subject to a deductible.
- Comprehensive – Covers non-collision damage, including theft, vandalism, and weather. Also has a deductible.
- Uninsured/underinsured motorist – Covers injury costs if you’re hit by a driver with little or no insurance.
- Medical payments – Covers medical bills for you and your passengers regardless of who caused the accident.
- Personal injury protection – Pays for medical costs, lost wages, and other injury expenses after an accident. Sometimes required.
- Roadside assistance – Provides towing and other assistance if you break down.
- Rental reimbursement – Pays for a rental car if your vehicle is being repaired after a covered loss.
USAA also offers accident forgiveness, new car replacement, and Mexico coverage. Overall, it provides extensive options to customize your policy.
USAA Auto Insurance Discounts
USAA offers many discounts that can potentially lower your premiums. Here are some of the main discounts available:
- Multi-policy – Bundles home and auto insurance for 5-15% off.
- Multi-vehicle – Insure multiple vehicles for up to 20% off.
- Good driver – 3 years of accident-free driving can save up to 15%.
- Driver training – Completing a program can save up to 15%.
- Military garaging – Garaging your vehicle on a military base can save up to 15%.
- Annual mileage – Drive less than 1,000 miles monthly for a low mileage discount.
- Automatic payment – Save up to $20 per 6-month term for recurring payments.
- New vehicle – Save for purchasing certain new or used vehicles.
- Early shopper – Save up to 10% for getting a quote at least 7 days before your policy renews.
- Safe driver – Possible discount for safe driving habits from the SafePilot program.
USAA Auto Insurance Ratings
USAA scores very well in major insurance rating categories like financial strength and customer satisfaction. Here are its current ratings:
- A.M. Best – A++ (Superior), highest possible rating
- Standard & Poor’s – AA+ (Very Strong), second highest
- Moody’s – Aaa (Exceptional), the highest score
- J.D. Power claims satisfaction – 890/1000, better than most insurers
- J.D. Power shopping satisfaction – 881/1000, better than average
The excellent financial strength ratings indicate USAA has a superior ability to pay out insurance claims.
It also scores very well for customer satisfaction, meaning drivers are happy with their policies and interactions.
USAA Customer Service Reviews
In addition to formal ratings, customer service reviews are another way to evaluate an insurer. USAA generally earns high marks for customer service and satisfaction.
On the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, USAA is accredited with an A+ rating. The BBB notes that the company responds effectively to complaints.
Highly-rated aspects of USAA customer service include:
- 24/7 support – Customer service agents are available all day via phone.
- Knowledgeable team – Agents are well-trained in USAA’s offerings.
- Mobile app – The App makes managing your policy easy.
- No robots – You talk to real people, not automated bots.
- Polite reps – Many mention friendly, polite customer service.
- Prompt claims – Speedy claims process and payments.
- Member discounts – Savings and perks for military service.
While mostly positive, some customers occasionally complain about rate hikes at renewal or lack of flexibility on policy changes.
But overall, USAA earns strong reviews for helpful and personable service.
How to File a Claim with USAA
The true test of an insurer is how they handle claims. USAA has a streamlined process; customers report quick payments and responsive service.
Here’s an overview of how to file with USAA:
- Report it ASAP – Notify USAA immediately after an accident or loss. This starts the claims process.
- Provide details – Give all relevant facts about how the loss occurred and any parties involved.
- Documents needed – Supply any documents required to process the claim, like police reports.
- USAA investigates – An adjuster collects facts about the incident from all parties. This takes about 3-5 days.
- Determine fault and coverage – Fault and applicable coverage is decided based on the policy and details.
- Settle/make payments – USAA can directly pay repair shops or reimburse you for costs once approved.
- Follow up – Provide any additional documentation needed as your claim is resolved.
USAA makes it easy by letting you start a claim via mobile app, online, or phone. The process is smooth, and payments are prompt based on reviews.
Pros and Cons of USAA Auto Insurance
Here are some key advantages that make USAA stand out:
- Excellent financial strength and ability to pay claims
- Consistently earns high customer satisfaction ratings
- Usage-based SafePilot program can help lower premiums
- Lots of discounts to reduce rates for military members
- Helpful claims representatives and a fast process
- Enhanced coverage options like accident forgiveness
Some potential downsides to consider:
- Only available for military families, making it inaccessible to the general public
- Rates can increase more than competitors when it’s time for renewal
- Fewer local agent offices compared to other national insurers
- Doesn’t offer gap insurance coverage
USAA is a top choice for auto insurance if you qualify based on military affiliation. Make sure to compare quotes carefully at renewal time.
Is USAA Right for You?
USAA is a great option for many military families, given its specialized coverage, discounts, and outstanding customer service.
Here are some factors to consider when deciding if it’s the right insurer for your needs:
- Qualify for membership – You or your spouse must be active military or a veteran to get USAA insurance.
- Frequent moves – USAA can insure vehicles across state lines or overseas deployments.
- Seeking usage-based discount – SafePilot rewards safe driving with possible premium reductions.
- Want top-notch service – Consistent praise for USAA’s customer satisfaction.
- Need worldwide coverage – Overseas servicemembers can get coverage abroad.
For almost all military members, USAA should be on your list of insurers to compare. Make sure to get quotes from other companies to find the best rates.
Top USAA Auto Insurance Alternatives
USAA is limited to military members, so what are some good alternatives if you don’t qualify? Here are a few top insurers to consider:
- GEICO – Second largest insurer with affordable rates and an easy-to-use online platform.
- Progressive – Innovative offerings like the Name Your Price tool and Snapshot device.
- State Farm – Largest auto insurer with local agents and discounts for bundling.
- Allstate – Established national insurer with excellent financial strength.
- Farmers – Provides homeowners and auto bundles, plus robust mobile app capabilities.
Each company has its own pros and cons. Ensure to get quotes from several insurers before deciding, including national companies and local insurance providers.
Conclusion
USAA consistently earns high marks in independent ratings, reviews, and surveys. It provides top-notch service, great coverage options, and special military benefits.
For those who qualify based on military service, it should be at the top of your list when shopping for auto insurance.
While USAA stands out in many ways, always compare quotes carefully each renewal period. Rates can change over time.
But for most military members, it’s hard to beat the specialized coverage, first-class service, and savings of USAA auto insurance.