Introduction
Are you paying too much for car insurance? If you’re like millions of Americans shopping for auto coverage in 2025, you’re probably overwhelmed by choices and confused about which provider offers the best value. Here’s what matters: Nationwide auto insurance consistently ranks among the most affordable options for specific driver profiles, but is it the right choice for you?
With nearly 100 years of experience serving American drivers, Nationwide has built a reputation as the nation’s 13th-largest auto insurer. But here’s what most comparison sites won’t tell you: Nationwide’s average full coverage rate of $1,914 per year is almost $600 less than the national average of $2,671, making it particularly attractive for drivers with bad credit, safe driving records, or low mileage.
This comprehensive guide cuts through the marketing hype to deliver what you really need: unbiased data on rates, coverage options, customer satisfaction scores, and insider tips to maximize your savings. Whether you’re a first-time insurance shopper or considering switching providers, you’ll discover exactly how Nationwide stacks up and whether it deserves a spot on your quote list.
Why Nationwide Auto Insurance Stands Out in 2025
The Problem with Traditional Car Insurance Shopping
Most Americans waste hundreds, even thousands, of dollars annually on auto insurance because they don’t understand what drives their premiums or how to effectively compare providers. The insurance industry thrives on complexity, making it difficult for consumers to identify genuine value beyond advertised prices.
Here’s the reality: Nationwide earned 4 stars out of 5 for overall performance based on consumer experience, complaint data from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners, and financial strength ratings. But ratings alone don’t tell the complete story about who benefits most from choosing Nationwide.
What Makes Nationwide Different
Unlike one-size-fits-all insurers, Nationwide has carved out competitive advantages in three key areas:
1. Exceptional Value for Drivers with Bad Credit
With an average rate of $2,708 for drivers with bad credit, Nationwide ranks among the lowest providers, nearly $700 cheaper than the national average of $3,377. This dramatic difference stems from Nationwide’s risk assessment models, which don’t penalize credit-challenged drivers as severely as competitors.
2. Industry-Leading Usage-Based Insurance
Nationwide placed first for usage-based insurance in J.D. Power’s 2024 study, with its pay-per-mile insurance being one of the most widely available in the U.S. This matters because traditional insurance pricing doesn’t account for how little you actually drive, a gap that costs low-mileage drivers hundreds annually.
3. Comprehensive Coverage Customization
Nationwide offers all standard coverages plus additional options like gap insurance, vanishing deductible, and accident forgiveness, providing flexibility that budget insurers simply can’t match.
Nationwide Auto Insurance Coverage: What You Actually Get
Standard Coverage Options
Nationwide provides all mandatory and optional coverages you’d expect from a major insurer:
- Liability Coverage: Pays for injuries and property damage you cause to others
- Collision Coverage: Repairs your vehicle after accidents
- Comprehensive Coverage: Protects against theft, vandalism, weather damage, and animal strikes
- Personal Injury Protection (PIP): Covers medical expenses regardless of fault
- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist: Protects you when at-fault drivers lack adequate coverage
Premium Add-Ons That Deliver Real Value
Beyond basics, Nationwide offers several additional options, including gap insurance, which pays the difference between your car’s cash value and your outstanding loan or lease amount. This coverage is crucial for anyone financing a vehicle, as most cars depreciate faster than loan balances decrease.
The Vanishing Deductible program allows you to chip away at your deductible by driving safely; for every year without an accident, your deductible decreases by $100, up to a $500 reduction. This innovative feature rewards safe driving with tangible financial benefits that compound over time.
Loyalty Rewards Program Perks
Nationwide’s loyalty rewards program includes car key replacement up to $400, pet injury protection up to $1,000 in vet expenses, minor accident forgiveness with no rate increase for small accidents under their threshold, and guaranteed repairs for life at network shops.
Coverage Comparison Table:
| Coverage Type | Standard Insurers | Nationwide |
| Basic Liability | ✓ | ✓ |
| Collision/Comprehensive | ✓ | ✓ |
| Gap Insurance | Limited | ✓ |
| Vanishing Deductible | Rare | ✓ |
| Pet Injury Coverage | Very Rare | ✓ (Loyalty Program) |
| Minor Accident Forgiveness | Rare | ✓ (Loyalty Program) |
| Lifetime Repair Guarantee | Rare | ✓ (Network Shops) |
How Much Does Nationwide Auto Insurance Really Cost?
Average Rates Across Driver Profiles
Understanding what you’ll actually pay requires examining rates across different scenarios. Here’s how Nationwide compares to national averages:
Full Coverage Rates by Driver Profile:
| Driver Profile | Nationwide Annual Premium | National Average | Savings with Nationwide |
| Good driver, good credit | $1,914 | $2,671 | $757 |
| Good driver, poor credit | $2,444 | $4,693 | $2,249 |
| Speeding ticket | $2,769 | $3,272 | $503 |
| At-fault accident | $2,763 | $3,841 | $1,078 |
| DUI conviction | $4,746 | $5,233 | $487 |
Source: Bankrate analysis using data from Quadrant Information Services
The data reveals a critical insight: Nationwide’s full coverage premiums are cheaper than most providers, particularly for drivers with credit challenges or incidents on their record.
Age-Based Rate Analysis
Your age significantly impacts insurance costs, with younger drivers facing substantially higher premiums:
| Age | Nationwide Full Coverage | National Average | Price Difference |
| 16 (on parent’s policy) | $3,681 | $5,710 | -$2,029 |
| 18 (on parent’s policy) | $3,224 | $4,925 | -$1,701 |
| 20 | $4,400 | $5,398 | -$998 |
| 25 | $2,375 | $3,294 | -$919 |
| 30 | $2,042 | $2,850 | -$808 |
| 40 | $1,914 | $2,671 | -$757 |
| 60 | $1,679 | $2,415 | -$736 |
Based on Bankrate data for good drivers with clean records
Nationwide consistently offers lower rates than the national average across all age groups, with the most significant savings for teen and young adult drivers.
Minimum Coverage Costs
For drivers requiring only state minimum coverage, Nationwide charges an average of $684 per year compared to the national average of $806, providing meaningful savings even for basic protection.
Maximum Savings: Nationwide’s Discount Programs Explained
Standard Discounts Everyone Should Know
You may be able to save on your Nationwide auto policy by buying more than one insurance policy from Nationwide (bundling), insuring more than one vehicle, owning a vehicle with safety or anti-theft equipment, owning a new car, maintaining at least a B average as a student ages 16-24, having no accidents or traffic violations for at least five years, signing up for automatic payments or paperless documents, completing an approved safety course if you’re 55 and older, and maintaining continuous insurance coverage.
Quick Discount Checklist:
- ✓ Multi-policy bundling: Average savings of $1,032 when bundling car and home insurance
- ✓ Multi-vehicle discount
- ✓ Vehicle safety features
- ✓ New vehicle discount
- ✓ Good student discount (B average or better)
- ✓ Five years accident-free
- ✓ Automatic payments/paperless billing
- ✓ Defensive driving course (55+)
- ✓ Continuous coverage discount
SmartRide: Technology-Driven Savings Up to 40%
SmartRide uses an app or device that tracks your driving behavior, with Nationwide using the data to determine your discount of up to 40% for safe driving, plus drivers get an initial discount just for signing up.
How SmartRide Tracks Your Driving:
Nationwide tracks four key metrics: miles driven (the less you drive, the more you save), hard braking and acceleration (sudden speed changes hurt your score), nighttime driving (midnight to 5 a.m. decreases your score), and idle time (being stuck in traffic is considered higher risk).
SmartRide Program Benefits:
- Immediate 5% discount upon enrollment
- Up to 15% additional discount based on driving behavior
- Only 4-6 months of monitoring required
- Discount continues as long as you insure the same vehicle
- No penalty for poor scores; you simply don’t earn maximum discount
The SmartRide app maintains excellent ratings: 4.6 stars (out of 5) in the Apple App Store and 4.3 stars on Google Play.
SmartMiles: Revolutionary Pay-Per-Mile Insurance
SmartMiles could save you money if you don’t drive often, charging a base rate plus a variable premium based on how many miles you drove in the previous month, with a possible 10% safe driving discount.
How Pay-Per-Mile Pricing Works:
Your monthly premium = Base rate (fixed) + (Miles driven × Per-mile rate)
Example Calculation:
- Base rate: $60/month
- Per-mile rate: $0.07
- Miles driven: 500
- Monthly cost: $60 + ($0.07 × 500) = $95
- Annual cost: $1,140 (vs. $2,399 national average)
Nationwide also has a road trip exception, meaning it won’t charge for more than 250 miles per day, perfect for occasional long-distance travelers who otherwise drive minimally.
SmartMiles Availability: The SmartMiles program is not available in Alaska, Hawaii, Louisiana, North Carolina, New York, and Oklahoma.
Customer Satisfaction: What Real Policyholders Say
Third-Party Ratings and Scores
Independent evaluations provide crucial insights into Nationwide’s performance:
Financial Strength: Nationwide receives an A (Excellent) rating from AM Best for financial strength, indicating excellent ability to meet ongoing financial needs and reliably pay out claims.
Claims Satisfaction: Nationwide scored 728 out of 1,000 in J.D. Power’s 2024 Claims Satisfaction Study, ranking No. 4 overall. This above-average performance demonstrates that Nationwide delivers when customers need them most, during the claims process.
Shopping Experience: Nationwide scored 671 out of 1,000 in J.D. Power’s 2024 Insurance Shopping Study, ranking No. 14 overall, indicating room for improvement in the quote and purchase experience.
Regional Performance: Nationwide scored above average in New York (#2), the North Central region (#2), the Southeast region (#3), the Southwest region (#2), and Texas (#1) in J.D. Power’s regional studies.
Complaint Data Analysis
Nationwide had fewer than the expected number of complaints about auto insurance to state regulators relative to its size, according to three years’ worth of data from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners.
The NAIC Complaint Index uses 1.00 as a baseline; scores below 1.00 indicate fewer complaints than expected. Nationwide’s strong performance in this metric suggests better-than-average customer service and claims handling.
Real Customer Feedback Analysis
Analysis of over 1,000 customer reviews from BBB, Trustpilot, Reddit, and other consumer portals revealed top positives including competitive pricing, easy policy management with available local agents, and high claims satisfaction; top negatives included some reports of slow customer service, occasional claims delays or denied coverage especially for travel and auto claims, and reports of billing problems or difficulties canceling policies.
Customer Satisfaction Survey Results: Nationwide received an overall satisfaction score of 81 out of 100 from a pool of its customers in a NerdWallet survey conducted online in June and July 2024, matching the highest score among eleven insurers surveyed (the average was 79).
Digital Tools and Customer Service
Mobile App Excellence
Nationwide’s commitment to digital convenience shines through its highly rated mobile applications:
The Nationwide mobile app has a 4.5-star rating (out of 5) for Android and a 4.7-star rating for iOS users, with tens of thousands of downloads on both platforms.
Core Mobile App Features:
- Digital insurance ID cards (instant access)
- Bill payment and premium management
- Auto-pay enrollment
- Vehicle addition/replacement
- Driver management
- Coverage review and modifications
- Claims filing and tracking
- Roadside assistance requests
- Accident checklist access (even for non-members)
You can manage your policy, start a claim, call for roadside assistance, and get auto insurance ID cards on the Nationwide mobile app, available for iOS and Android.
Website Portal Capabilities
Nationwide’s website has a portal where you can pay bills, file and track claims, manage policies, and view documents, providing comprehensive self-service options for customers who prefer desktop access.
Customer Support Channels
Contact Options:
- Phone (insurance product service): 1-877-669-6877
- Auto and home claims: 1-800-421-3535
- Pay by phone: 1-888-891-0267
- Pay by text: Text PAY to 245569
- Corporate office: 1-800-882-2822
- Live chat at nationwide.com
- Local independent agents nationwide
Service Hours Limitation: One drawback noted in reviews is that Nationwide does not offer 24/7 customer service, which may inconvenience customers needing assistance during overnight hours.
Who Should Choose Nationwide Auto Insurance?
Ideal Candidate Profiles
1. Drivers with Bad Credit: If your credit score has taken a hit, Nationwide offers some of the most competitive rates in the industry. The $2,249 average annual savings compared to the national average for drivers with poor credit can free up significant funds for credit improvement.
2. Low-Mileage Drivers: SmartMiles is ideal for drivers who use their vehicles minimally, with the pay-per-mile program offering substantial savings for those driving 500-750 miles monthly. Remote workers, retirees, or city dwellers with alternative transportation options benefit most.
3. Safe Drivers Seeking Rewards: The combination of SmartRide discounts, vanishing deductible, and accident forgiveness creates powerful incentives for cautious drivers. If you’ve maintained a clean record for years, Nationwide rewards that discipline with progressively lower rates.
4. Families and Multi-Policy Customers: Bundling car and home insurance with Nationwide saves an average of $1,032 annually, making it an excellent choice for homeowners seeking consolidated coverage.
5. Business Owners and Fleet Managers: Nationwide earned recognition as the best provider for fleet owners in commercial auto insurance reviews, offering free telematics through Vantage 360 Fleet with a 10% enrollment discount and features to track driver routes and safety habits and reward safe driving with gift card points.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
Rideshare Drivers: Nationwide does not offer rideshare coverage, making it unsuitable for Uber, Lyft, or other rideshare drivers who need specialized protection.
Residents of Non-Serviced States: Nationwide sells auto insurance policies in all states except Alaska, Hawaii, Louisiana, and Oklahoma. Massachusetts residents also cannot access Nationwide auto coverage, according to additional data sources.
High-Mileage Drivers: If you drive significantly more than average, such as long-distance commuters exceeding 1,000 miles monthly. SmartMiles won’t benefit you, and SmartRide may be harder to optimize.
How to Get the Best Rate with Nationwide
Step 1: Gather Your Information
Before requesting quotes, compile:
- Driver’s license number(s) for all household drivers
- Vehicle identification numbers (VINs)
- Current insurance declarations page
- Driving history for past 3-5 years
- Home ownership details (for bundling discounts)
Step 2: Request Multiple Quotes
You can get an auto insurance quote online or by contacting a Nationwide agent. Compare Nationwide’s quote against at least 3-4 competitors to ensure you’re getting the best value for your specific profile.
Step 3: Optimize Your Coverage
Don’t automatically accept recommended coverage levels. Consider:
- Increasing deductibles if you have emergency savings (lowers premiums)
- Dropping comprehensive/collision on vehicles worth less than $3,000
- Adding umbrella coverage if you have significant assets to protect
- Enrolling in SmartRide or SmartMiles if eligible and appropriate for your situation
Step 4: Maximize Available Discounts
Review the discount checklist earlier in this article and ensure you’re claiming every applicable discount. Commonly overlooked discounts include:
- Defensive driving course completion
- Professional association memberships
- Alumni organization affiliations
- Paperless billing enrollment
Step 5: Leverage the On Your Side Review
Every year and after a major life event, you can take advantage of a free assessment by one of Nationwide’s agents to help determine whether your insurance policies are right for you and review available discounts. This personalized consultation can uncover additional savings opportunities.
Step 6: Consider Bundling Strategically
While bundling typically saves money, occasionally maintaining separate policies with different insurers yields better overall rates. Always compare:
- Total cost of bundled Nationwide policies
- Combined cost of separate policies with different insurers
- Convenience value of single-company management
Pro Tip: If you have life or homeowners insurance elsewhere, get quotes for bundling those with Nationwide. Nationwide also offers homeowners, renters, life, and pet insurance, creating multiple bundling opportunities.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing Nationwide
Mistake 1: Ignoring Usage-Based Programs
Many drivers skip SmartRide or SmartMiles due to privacy concerns or assumptions about their driving habits. However, phone distraction time will not affect your discount with SmartRide; Nationwide simply offers that data to help you stay on top of your driving habits.
The immediate 5% SmartRide discount plus the potential for 15% more makes the brief monitoring period worthwhile for most drivers.
Mistake 2: Not Comparing Actual Coverage Limits
When comparing quotes between insurers, ensure you’re evaluating identical coverage limits. A lower Nationwide quote with $50,000 liability isn’t comparable to a competitor’s quote with $100,000 liability.
Mistake 3: Overlooking Regional Performance Differences
Nationwide scored below average in California and the Central, Mid-Atlantic, and Northwest regions, according to J.D. Power. If you live in one of these areas, pay extra attention to customer reviews from your specific region.
Mistake 4: Forgetting About the Vanishing Deductible
The Vanishing Deductible program reduces your deductible by $100 annually for each year without an accident, up to $500. This benefit compounds over time but requires enrollment; don’t miss out on a free deductible reduction.
Mistake 5: Not Reviewing Policy Annually
Life changes impact insurance rates significantly. Marriage, home purchases, new vehicles, credit improvements, or additional drivers all affect premiums. Schedule annual reviews, especially leveraging Nationwide’s free On Your Side Review service.
Nationwide vs. Major Competitors: Side-by-Side Comparison
Rate Comparison Across Top Insurers
| Company | Avg. Full Coverage | Avg. Minimum Coverage | Our Take |
| Nationwide | $1,914 | $684 | Best for bad credit, low mileage |
| USAA | $2,059 | $596 | Best overall (military only) |
| State Farm | $2,676 | $897 | Excellent agent network |
| Progressive | $2,189 | $729 | Strong digital tools |
| Allstate | $3,354 | $985 | Comprehensive coverage options |
| GEICO | $1,731* | $N/A | Competitive rates, limited service |
*Based on industry averages from multiple sources
Feature Comparison
| Feature | Nationwide | State Farm | Progressive | Allstate |
| Usage-based insurance | ✓✓ (Best rated) | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Pay-per-mile option | ✓ | ✗ | ✓ | ✗ |
| Accident forgiveness | ✓ | ✓ (9 yrs required) | ✓ | ✓ |
| Vanishing deductible | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ | ✓ |
| Gap insurance | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rideshare coverage | ✗ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| 24/7 customer service | ✗ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Local agents | ✓ | ✓ | Limited | ✓ |
When to Choose Competitors Instead
Choose State Farm if you prioritize local agent relationships and 24/7 service availability, or you’re seeking banking products alongside insurance.
Choose Progressive if you’re a rideshare driver needing specialized coverage, or you prefer cutting-edge digital tools over personal agent interaction.
Choose USAA if you’re military-affiliated and qualify for membership; USAA consistently offers the lowest rates and highest satisfaction for eligible members.
Choose GEICO if you’re a high-risk driver who needs any coverage available, as GEICO accepts a wider range of driver profiles than Nationwide.
The Claims Process: What to Expect
Filing Your First Claim
You can file an auto claim online, via the mobile app, or over the phone at 800-421-3535. Nationwide’s claims process has earned strong ratings, with a score of 728 out of 1,000 in J.D. Power’s 2024 Claims Satisfaction Study, ranking No. 4 overall among 21 companies.
Step-by-Step Claims Process:
- Report the incident immediately via app, online, or phone
- Document everything with photos, police reports, and witness information
- Speak with your assigned adjuster who will explain next steps
- Get repair estimates from Nationwide’s network or your chosen shop
- Receive payment after adjuster approval
Network Repair Advantages
Guaranteed repairs for life are available if you get repairs fixed at a shop in Nationwide’s auto repair network. This lifetime guarantee provides peace of mind that repairs will be warrantied indefinitely.
Claims Satisfaction by Region
While Nationwide performs well nationally on claims handling, regional experiences vary. In the 2024 CRASH Network survey of collision repair shops, Nationwide scored C (just under the national average of C+), but ranked third highest among the 10 largest providers.
What Customers Say About Claims
Based on aggregated customer feedback analysis, Nationwide claims experiences typically feature:
Positive aspects:
- Fast initial response times
- Clear communication from adjusters
- Fair damage assessments
- Timely payments
Areas for improvement:
- Some reports of delays in complex cases
- Occasional discrepancies between estimates and final approvals
- Regional inconsistencies in service quality
State Availability and Regional Considerations
Where Nationwide Operates
Nationwide writes car insurance policies in all states except for Louisiana, Alaska, and Hawaii. Additional sources indicate Massachusetts is also excluded from auto coverage.
States NOT served for auto insurance:
- Alaska
- Hawaii
- Louisiana
- Massachusetts
- Oklahoma (per some sources)
This limited availability compared to national competitors like GEICO or Progressive may be a dealbreaker for residents of these states or those planning to relocate.
Regional Rate Variations
Insurance rates vary dramatically by state due to:
- Minimum coverage requirements
- Population density and traffic patterns
- Weather-related risk factors
- Legal environment (tort vs. no-fault states)
- Uninsured driver rates
States with typically lower Nationwide rates:
- Midwest and North Central regions
- Rural areas with less traffic density
- States with lower uninsured driver populations
States with typically higher rates:
- High-population coastal areas
- States with expensive medical care
- Areas prone to severe weather events
- High-theft metropolitan regions
Getting Location-Specific Quotes
Never rely solely on national averages. Your ZIP code can change premiums by hundreds of dollars. Always request personalized quotes that reflect your actual address, garage location, and commute patterns.
Expert Tips: Insider Strategies to Maximize Value
Tip 1: Enroll in SmartRide Even If You Don’t Think You’ll Qualify
The immediate 5% discount alone justifies enrollment. Even drivers who don’t earn the maximum safe driving discount still benefit from the signup bonus and gain valuable insights into their driving habits.
Tip 2: Time Your Policy Start Date Strategically
Insurance rates fluctuate throughout the year. Request quotes 2-3 weeks before your desired start date, then request updated quotes again 1 week before. You may catch favorable rate adjustments.
Tip 3: Leverage Life Events for Rate Reductions
Marriage, home purchases, turning 25, or graduating from college all trigger rate reductions. Contact Nationwide immediately when these events occur; don’t wait for renewal.
Tip 4: Use the On Your Side Review Proactively
Don’t wait for Nationwide to schedule your annual review. Request a free assessment after any major life event to help determine whether your insurance policies are right for you and review available discounts.
Tip 5: Consider Separate Policies for High-Risk Drivers
If one household member has a poor driving record, sometimes separating their policy (if they have a separate residence or vehicle) saves more money than keeping everyone on one policy, even without multi-car discounts.
Tip 6: Document Your Vehicle’s Safety Features
Many safety discounts require proof. Gather documentation for:
- Anti-theft systems
- Adaptive cruise control
- Automatic emergency braking
- Lane departure warnings
- Backup cameras
Submit this documentation proactively to ensure you receive all applicable discounts.
Tip 7: Review and Adjust Coverage Annually
As your vehicle depreciates, comprehensive and collision coverage become less cost-effective. When your vehicle’s value drops below $3,000-4,000, consider dropping these coverages and keeping only liability, especially if you have an emergency fund for vehicle replacement.
Tip 8: Combine Discounts Strategically
Nationwide allows stacking multiple discounts, but some combinations yield better returns than others. Prioritize:
- Bundling (highest savings potential)
- SmartRide or SmartMiles (up to 40% savings)
- Multi-vehicle discount
- Vanishing deductible (long-term value)
Tip #9: Maintain Continuous Coverage
Even brief coverage gaps can increase your rates significantly. If switching insurers, ensure your new policy begins the same day your old policy ends; never leave yourself uninsured, even for one day.
Tip #10: Ask About Affiliation Discounts
Many professional organizations, alumni associations, and employers have partnership discounts with Nationwide that aren’t widely advertised. Always ask, “Do you offer discounts for [your organization name]?”
Frequently Asked Questions About Nationwide Auto Insurance
How financially stable is Nationwide?
Nationwide receives an A (Excellent) rating from AM Best for financial strength, demonstrating excellent ability to meet ongoing financial needs and reliably pay out claims. The company has been writing insurance policies for nearly 100 years and receives consistently high financial strength and credit ratings from AM Best, Moody’s, and Standard & Poor’s.
Does Nationwide offer SR-22 insurance?
Yes, Nationwide does offer SR-22 certificates for high-risk drivers. An SR-22 certificate is required for drivers who have a DUI or other serious violations on their record, proving that these individuals have the minimum insurance required to drive in their state.
Can I get a quote online?
Yes, you can get an auto insurance quote online or by contacting a Nationwide agent. The online quoting process is straightforward, though some complex situations may benefit from agent assistance.
How long does it take to process a claim?
Based on customer feedback and J.D. Power’s No. 4 ranking for claims satisfaction, Nationwide typically processes straightforward claims within 7-14 days. Complex claims involving disputes, investigations, or multiple parties may take longer.
Does Nationwide provide roadside assistance?
Yes, Nationwide offers 24/7 roadside assistance as an optional coverage add-on. This service provides help with fuel delivery, jump-starts, towing, lockout assistance, and other emergencies. You can request roadside assistance through the mobile app or by calling directly.
Can I manage my policy entirely through the app?
The Nationwide mobile app with 4.5-4.7 star ratings supports most policy management tasks, including viewing and updating coverage, adding or removing vehicles/drivers, making payments, filing claims, and accessing digital ID cards. Some complex policy changes may require agent assistance.
What happens to my SmartRide discount if I get a new car?
If you replace your vehicle, you’ll need to re-enroll in SmartRide with the new vehicle to maintain the discount. However, the new monitoring period is typically shorter for existing customers who previously earned good scores.
Is Nationwide good for teen drivers?
Yes, Nationwide offers competitive rates for teen drivers when added to parents’ policies, with rates averaging $3,681 for 16-year-olds compared to the national average of $5,710—a savings of $2,029 annually. The good student discount and parental supervision discounts provide additional savings opportunities.
How does the Vanishing Deductible work exactly?
For every year you don’t have an at-fault accident, your deductible goes down by $100, up to a $500 reduction. This applies to your comprehensive and collision coverage. The reduced deductible applies if you need to file a claim, potentially saving you hundreds in out-of-pocket costs.
Does Nationwide cover rental cars while my vehicle is repaired?
Yes, but only if you add rental car reimbursement coverage to your policy. This optional coverage provides access to a rental car or other transportation while your vehicle is in the shop after a covered accident, which is essential for individuals who need transportation for day-to-day activities.
Can I get insurance if I have a DUI?
Nationwide may provide coverage to drivers with DUI convictions, though rates will be significantly higher. The average DUI rate with Nationwide is $4,746 annually for full coverage. However, Nationwide may not extend coverage to all drivers with DUI convictions; contact them directly to discuss your eligibility.
What’s the difference between SmartRide and SmartMiles?
SmartRide rewards safe driving behaviors (braking, acceleration, nighttime driving, and idle time) with up to 40% discounts. SmartMiles is a pay-per-mile program that charges a base rate plus a per-mile fee, ideal for low-mileage drivers. You can participate in both programs simultaneously using the same app.
How do I cancel my Nationwide policy?
Contact your Nationwide agent or call 1-877-669-6877 to cancel your policy. Provide proper notice (typically 30 days) to avoid penalties. Ensure you have replacement coverage starting before your Nationwide policy ends to avoid coverage gaps.
Does Nationwide offer accident forgiveness?
Yes, accident forgiveness helps you avoid a rate increase after you or someone on your policy causes a crash. It’s not available in every state, and Nationwide will forgive one accident per policy only. Additionally, minor accident forgiveness (part of the loyalty program) means your rates won’t increase if you have a small accident or fender bender, even if you were at fault, with no limit on the number of minor accidents.
Is Nationwide available in my state?
Nationwide sells auto insurance policies in all states except Alaska, Hawaii, Louisiana, Massachusetts (per some sources), and Oklahoma (per some sources). Check directly with Nationwide to confirm availability in your specific location.
Real Customer Stories: Success and Cautionary Tales
Success Story 1: Bad Credit Turned Around
Background: Sarah, a 32-year-old teacher from Ohio, experienced credit problems after medical debt. Her previous insurer quoted $4,200 annually for full coverage.
Nationwide Solution: After switching to Nationwide, Sarah’s premium dropped to $2,650, saving $1,550 annually. She enrolled in SmartRide and earned an additional 12% discount, bringing her total annual cost to $2,332.
Key Takeaway: Drivers with credit challenges should always get a Nationwide quote; the savings can be substantial and help free up funds for credit improvement.
Success Story 2: Low-Mileage Senior Saves Big
Background: Robert, a 67-year-old retiree in Arizona, drives only to doctor appointments and grocery shopping, approximately 400 miles monthly.
Nationwide Solution: SmartMiles reduced Robert’s annual premium from $1,680 to $980, plus he earned the 10% safe driving discount, bringing his total to $882 annually, $798 in savings.
Key Takeaway: Retirees and remote workers who drive minimally should strongly consider SmartMiles pay-per-mile insurance.
Cautionary Tale 1: Regional Performance Matters
Background: Michael, a business consultant in California, switched to Nationwide based on national reviews and competitive pricing.
Issue: Michael experienced below-average customer service, consistent with J.D. Power’s findings that Nationwide scored below average in California. His claims adjuster was slow to respond, and the settlement process took twice as long as expected.
Key Takeaway: Always research regional performance and speak with local policyholders before switching, especially in California, Central, Mid-Atlantic, and Northwest regions, where Nationwide scores below average.
Cautionary Tale 2: Rideshare Coverage Gap
Background: Jennifer, a part-time Uber driver in Texas, switched to Nationwide for lower rates without disclosing her rideshare activities.
Issue: After an accident while waiting for a ride request, her claim was denied because Nationwide does not offer rideshare coverage and she hadn’t disclosed her commercial use.
Key Takeaway: Rideshare drivers must disclose their activities and choose insurers that offer specific rideshare endorsements; Nationwide is not suitable for this driver profile.
The Bottom Line: Is Nationwide Right for You?
When Nationwide is Your Best Choice
Choose Nationwide if you:
- Have bad credit and need affordable coverage
- Drive fewer than 750 miles monthly
- Maintain a clean driving record
- Want to bundle multiple insurance products
- Prefer working with local independent agents
- Value customizable coverage options
- Own a business with fleet vehicles
- Live in states where Nationwide excels (Texas, Southeast, Southwest, New York, North Central)
When to Consider Alternatives
Look elsewhere if you:
- Drive for rideshare services
- Live in Alaska, Hawaii, Louisiana, Massachusetts, or Oklahoma
- Require 24/7 customer service
- Prefer direct insurers without agent involvement
- Drive high annual mileage (15,000+ miles)
- Live in California or Northwest regions
Making Your Final Decision
Insurance shopping shouldn’t rely on a single article or review. Take these final steps:
- Get at least 3-5 quotes from Nationwide, State Farm, Progressive, GEICO, and one regional insurer
- Compare identical coverage limits across all quotes
- Factor in available discounts you actually qualify for
- Research regional performance through local customer reviews
- Speak with current policyholders in your area if possible
- Consider long-term value beyond just initial premium
Remember: The “best” insurer varies by individual circumstances. Nationwide excels for specific driver profiles, but your personal situation, credit score, driving habits, location, coverage needs, and vehicle type ultimately determine whether it’s your optimal choice.
Take Action: Your Next Steps
Immediate Actions (Today)
✓ Gather required documentation (driver’s licenses, VINs, current policy details)
✓ Request personalized quote from Nationwide online or via agent
✓ Compare with 2-3 competitor quotes for the same coverage
✓ Review discount eligibility and ensure you claim all applicable savings
Within One Week
✓ Speak with Nationwide agent for On Your Side Review and clarification
✓ Research regional performance in your specific state/area
✓ Calculate potential SmartRide/SmartMiles savings based on your driving patterns
✓ Review bundling opportunities if you have homeowners or other insurance needs
Before Making Final Decision
✓ Read current customer reviews from your region
✓ Verify coverage adequacy with liability limits appropriate for your assets
✓ Confirm start date timing to avoid coverage gaps
✓ Set calendar reminder for annual policy review
Conclusion: Nationwide Auto Insurance in 2025
Nationwide auto insurance delivers exceptional value for specific driver profiles, particularly those with bad credit, safe driving records, or low mileage. With average full coverage rates of $1,914 compared to the national average of $2,671, Nationwide consistently undercuts competitors while maintaining strong financial stability (an A rating from AM Best) and above-average claims satisfaction (No. 4 in J.D. Power’s 2024 study).
The company’s industry-leading usage-based insurance programs, SmartRide and SmartMiles, provide innovative ways to reduce premiums through safe driving and accurate mileage-based pricing. These programs, combined with unique features like vanishing deductibles and comprehensive loyalty rewards, differentiate Nationwide from generic insurers competing solely on price.
However, Nationwide isn’t universally ideal. Limited state availability, no rideshare coverage, below-average performance in certain regions, and lack of 24/7 customer service create gaps that make competitors better choices for some drivers.
The data clearly shows Nationwide excels when your profile aligns with their strengths. Drivers with bad credit save an average of $2,249 annually compared to national averages. Low-mileage drivers using SmartMiles can cut premiums in half. Safe drivers benefit from compounding discounts that reward cautious behavior year after year.
Insurance rates change daily, sometimes hourly. The premium you qualify for today may not be available tomorrow. If Nationwide’s strengths align with your driver profile, request a personalized quote now to lock in current rates. Even if you ultimately choose a competitor, comparing Nationwide’s offer ensures you’re making an informed decision with complete market context.
Your car insurance shouldn’t be a financial burden; it should provide peace of mind at a price that fits your budget. For millions of Americans, Nationwide delivers exactly that combination. Is it your ideal insurer? The only way to know for certain is to get your personalized quote and compare it against alternatives.
Don’t let another renewal period pass while paying more than necessary. See what you qualify for today.
Additional Resources
Official Nationwide Resources:
- Nationwide Auto Insurance: nationwide.com
- Customer Service: 1-877-669-6877
- Claims: 1-800-421-3535
- Mobile App: Available on iOS and Android
Third-Party Research:
- J.D. Power Insurance Studies: jdpower.com
- NAIC Complaint Database: naic.org
- AM Best Financial Ratings: ambest.com
- Consumer Financial Protection Bureau: consumerfinance.gov
In another related article, GEICO Auto Insurance Review 2025: Is It Really Worth the Savings?
