The deductible on a car insurance policy
When you take out car insurance, you’ll almost always have to deal with a deductible in the event of a claim. This is the amount you have to pay yourself before the insurer covers the rest. The deductible ranges from €135 to €250.
What is the deductible on a car insurance policy?
The deductible on a car insurance policy is the amount you must pay out of pocket first if you have a claim. Only then will the insurer pay the remainder. This amount usually applies per claim and depends on the terms of your policy. If you choose a higher deductible, you’ll pay a lower premium, but you’ll have to pay more out of pocket in the event of a claim.
The deductible depends on the car insurance policy and the coverage
The amount of your deductible depends on the type of insurance and the insurer. With liability insurance, you usually don’t have a deductible. With limited comprehensive or all-risk insurance, the deductible is usually between €135 and €250. A different amount may apply for windshield damage.
Some insurers also offer the option to adjust the deductible, which can affect the premium amount.
With third-party auto insurance, you usually don't have a deductible, because damage to your own car isn't covered. However, in certain situations, the insurer may still require you to pay a deductible.
Increase or Waive the Deductible
You largely decide for yourself how high your deductible will be. Insurers usually have a standard deductible that often ranges from €135 to €250.
If you choose to set a higher deductible, you’ll pay a lower monthly premium. However, this does involve some risk, since you obviously can’t know in advance whether you’ll be involved in a car accident.
In some cases, you can waive the deductible. In that case, the insurer will pay the full amount of the claim. You’ll pay a higher monthly premium for this, but you won’t have to pay a deductible if you file a claim. This is usually only available for auto insurance policies with comprehensive coverage.
Get Car Insurance with No Deductible
More and more insurers now offer car insurance without a deductible. In that case, if you file a claim, the insurer will reimburse you for the full amount of the damage. Of course, this comes at the cost of higher insurance premiums.
If you have a high no-claim discount , it might be a good idea to choose car insurance without a deductible. Because of the high no-claims discount, you’re already getting a significant discount on your premium. As a result, you pay less each month, so it might be worth paying a little more to avoid having a deductible.
There is no deductible for damage to others
Insurers do not charge a deductible for what is known as liability coverage. This applies to claims on the third-party auto insurance. If your car has more comprehensive coverage and you also file a claim with the insurer for damage to your own car, you will usually have to pay an deductible.
Compare car insurance policies with no deductible
Paying the deductible for windshield damage
How much you have to pay for windshield damage depends on your insurer. However, there are a few rules that are the same for most insurers. If your windshield needs to be replaced, you’ll usually pay about €150. If you have the repair done at a company that works with your insurer, you’ll often pay only half that amount.
Some insurers charge a higher deductible for windshield damage. If you go to an authorized repair shop, you’ll usually get a discount. Is the windshield being repaired rather than replaced? In that case, you often don’t have to pay a deductible.
Sample Calculation of the Cost of Your Deductible in the Event of a Claim
Have you been in an accident and want to file an insurance claim? The exact amount you'll pay depends on the damage, the compensation, and the deductible.
Isn't it your own fault? Then the other party must pay for the damages. We call this "recovery damages." In that case, you will be reimbursed for your deductible, which will be paid by the party liable for the damages.
| Minor damage covered by comprehensive insurance | Major damage, excess waiver | Windshield damage, repair shop not affiliated | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amount of Damages | €600 | €2.500 | €350 |
| Own risk | €150 | €0 (redeemed) | €150 |
| Insurer Reimbursement | €450 | €2.500 | €200 |
| Your own expenses | €150 | €0 | €150 |
Deductible for Young People
Young people under the age of 24 usually pay a higher deductible if they drive their parents' car. Do you drive your own car? Then you won't pay a higher deductible.
Deductible for a Leased Car
For leased vehicles, the contract specifies the amount of the deductible. So when signing such a contract, be sure to carefully review the terms regarding damage. How much will you be charged as a deductible? The deductible amount in the event of damage varies by provider.
Comparing car insurance policies also means considering your deductible
Want to compare car insurance policies? Don't just look at the price. The amount you have to pay out of pocket in the event of a claim is also important when choosing car insurance. If you keep this in mind, you'll avoid unpleasant surprises if you have a claim.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Deductible on Auto Insurance
What does "deductible" mean in car insurance?
The deductible is the amount you pay out of pocket in the event of a claim, before your insurer pays out.
Can I choose my own deductible?
Yes, many insurers allow you to choose a higher or lower deductible, which affects your premium.
Is there such a thing as car insurance without a deductible?
Yes, some insurers offer this, usually as part of comprehensive coverage. However, the premium is higher in that case.
Is there also a deductible for liability insurance?
Usually not, because damage to your own car isn't covered under liability insurance. Check the policy terms and conditions to see if this applies to your situation as well.
What happens if a window is damaged?
If you have your device repaired by an authorized repair provider, you often pay no deductible or a lower one. If your device is replaced, you usually have to pay a copayment.
How does the deductible work with leasing?
This is agreed upon in advance in the lease agreement and may vary by provider.
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