Electric Car Insurance in California: What's Different and How to Save
Key Takeaways
- Electric cars use the same types of coverage as gas cars: liability, collision, comprehensive, and more.
- The difference is in the cost of repairs. Batteries, sensors, and specialized repair shops can make claims more expensive.
- California’s legal minimum is the same for electric and gas cars: 30/60/15.
- Review a few EV-specific details, such as battery coverage and charging equipment.
- Strong Tie Insurance insures electric cars, including Teslas, and a quote takes just minutes.
Electric vehicles are everywhere in California. If you drive one, or you’re thinking about buying one, here’s what you should know about insuring it.
Do Electric Cars Need Special Insurance?
No. Electric cars use the same coverages as any other car:
- Liability: required by law, pays for injuries and damage you cause to others
- Collision: repairs your car after a crash
- Comprehensive: covers theft, vandalism, fire, falling objects, and weather damage
- Uninsured motorist: protects you if the other driver has no insurance
- Medical payments: helps pay medical bills for you and your passengers
California’s minimum liability limits are the same for every car: $30,000 per person, $60,000 per accident for injuries, and $15,000 for property damage.
What Makes EV Insurance Different
- Expensive batteries: the battery is usually the most expensive part of an EV, and battery damage can lead to costly claims.
- Specialized repairs: EVs often need certified repair shops and specific parts, which can increase repair costs and time.
- Advanced technology: sensors, cameras, and driver-assist systems are costly to repair or recalibrate after even a minor accident.
- Higher vehicle value: many EVs cost more than similar gas cars, which affects collision and comprehensive premiums.
These factors can affect your premium, but your driving record, where you live, and the coverage you choose still matter most.
What to Check in Your EV Policy
- Is the battery covered? Check how your policy handles battery damage, especially if the battery is leased.
- Are your limits high enough? A higher-value car may need higher collision and comprehensive coverage.
- What about charging equipment? A home charger may be covered under your home or renters policy. Ask your agent.
- Is roadside assistance available? Some policies offer towing that works for EVs.
How to Save on Electric Car Insurance
- Compare insurers. Prices for EVs vary widely between companies.
- Bundle your auto and home insurance with the same carrier and save up to 40% a year.*
- Choose the right deductible for your budget.
- Keep a clean driving record.
- Ask about available discounts.
*Discounts vary by carrier and eligibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is insurance more expensive for electric cars?
It can be, mainly because batteries, sensors, and specialized repairs cost more. Your driving record, location, and coverage still have the biggest impact on your price.
Do I need special insurance for a Tesla?
No. A Tesla uses the same coverages as any other car. Make sure your collision and comprehensive limits match the car’s value.
What is the minimum car insurance for an electric car in California?
The same as for any car: $30,000 per person and $60,000 per accident for injuries, and $15,000 for property damage.
Does car insurance cover my EV battery?
Collision and comprehensive coverage can cover battery damage caused by a covered event, such as a crash. Normal wear and battery degradation are usually not covered.
Does Strong Tie Insurance insure electric cars?
Yes. We insure electric cars, including Teslas, and a quote takes just minutes.
Get Electric Car Insurance in California
Our bilingual agents compare insurers to find the right coverage for your EV, in English or Spanish.
Learn more about our auto insurance in California, request a free auto insurance quote, or call us at (800) 924-7070. You can also visit one of our 10 offices in Southern California.
