What Consumer Reports Covered in 2019
In 2019, Consumer Reports published its annual auto insurance study, evaluating 23 major insurers across the United States. The report focused on three core dimensions: claim satisfaction, price, and policy coverage. By combining customer feedback, claim handling data, and premium costs, the study produced a composite score for each company. This snapshot offers consumers a clear, data‑driven way to compare insurers and identify the best fit for their budget and coverage priorities.
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Key Findings and Rankings
The 2019 rankings highlighted the following top performers:
| Rank | Insurer | Composite Score |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Geico | 90.2 |
| 2 | Progressive | 88.7 |
| 3 | Nationwide | 87.4 |
| 4 | State Farm | 86.9 |
| 5 | USAA | 85.3 |
Geico topped the list largely due to its low premiums and strong customer service ratings. Progressive and Nationwide followed closely, each offering competitive pricing and robust coverage options. State Farm and USAA, while slightly lower in composite score, excelled in specific categories such as claim speed and customer satisfaction.
Coverage Types Evaluated
Consumer Reports examined the following coverage categories:
Liability – The mandatory minimums required by most states.
Collision – Covers damage to your vehicle in an accident.
Comprehensive – Protects against non‑collision incidents like theft or weather.
Roadside Assistance – Includes towing, jump‑starts, and lock‑out services.
Rental Reimbursement – Covers a rental car while your vehicle is repaired.
Pricing Insights
Premiums varied widely, with an average annual cost of $1,500 across the top five insurers. Factors influencing price included age, driving record, location, and vehicle type. The report also highlighted that bundling auto with homeowners or renters insurance could yield savings of 10‑15%.
Claim Satisfaction Scores
Claim handling was a critical metric. The top three insurers (Geico, Progressive, Nationwide) scored above 85% for timely settlements and customer satisfaction. USAA, although not in the top three, achieved a 92% satisfaction rate, largely due to its military‑member‑only focus and streamlined claim process.
How to Use the 2019 Data Today
Although the study is from 2019, the methodology remains relevant. When shopping for insurance:
Check the latest Consumer Reports rankings to see if your preferred insurer maintained its position.
Compare the coverage mix that best matches your driving habits (e.g., high‑speed roads vs. city commuting).
Consider bundling options and state‑specific discounts that may not be reflected in the 2019 data.
Limitations and Next Steps
The 2019 report does not account for recent regulatory changes or new market entrants post‑2020. For the most current data, consult the latest Consumer Reports publication or the insurer's own consumer‑feedback portals.