- MetLife's Auto Insurance Transition to Farmers: As of 2021, MetLife no longer directly sells auto insurance; its policies are now under Farmers Insurance after a nearly $4 billion sale of its auto and home division.
- Who Benefits from MetLife Car Insurance: It's ideal for existing MetLife customers, safe drivers, and employer groups with affinity discounts, especially those wanting to bundle policies for savings.
- Pricing and Discounts: MetLife through Farmers offers middle-of-the-road pricing with discounts for bundling, safe driving, good grades, and membership in certain groups, though rates tend to be higher than budget providers.
- Coverage Options and Add-Ons: Standard coverage includes liability, collision, comprehensive, and extras like rental reimbursement and new car replacement, with customizable limits and additional protections.
- Financial Strength and Customer Service: Backed by strong ratings from agencies like AM Best, MetLife/Farmers offers reliable claims support, but customer service experiences can vary widely depending on region and individual cases.
MetLife Car Insurance Overview
If you’re researching MetLife car insurance in 2026, here’s the scoop: MetLife no longer directly sells auto insurance. Back in April 2021, the company sold its entire auto and home insurance division to Farmers Insurance Group in a nearly $4 billion deal. So when you see MetLife car insurance today, you’re actually getting a Farmers policy. Your coverage, discounts, and customer service now flow through Farmers, though existing MetLife policyholders were transitioned without losing their rates or coverage terms during the switch.
MetLife itself has been around since 1868, giving it over 155 years of experience in the insurance game. The company remains a powerhouse in life, dental, and disability insurance, but Farmers now handles your car insurance needs, making it the seventh-largest auto insurer in the country. This partnership means you still get access to solid coverage options backed by a financially stable organization, though the customer experience has become a Farmers experience.
Since MetLife does not offer insurance, it didn’t make our list of the best car insurance companies. Read on if you’re interesting in buying coverage through an employer with a Famers’ discount.
Who Is MetLife Car Insurance Best For?
MetLife car insurance through Farmers is best for people who already have other MetLife products and want to bundle them for discounts. New car owners benefit from replacement cost coverage that pays the full value of vehicles under a year old or with fewer than 15,000 miles. Drivers with clean records can stack multiple safe driver discounts to offset the typically higher premiums. Employer groups often have access to exclusive MetLife affiliate discounts that can significantly reduce rates. If you prioritize claims handling quality over rock-bottom prices, this setup delivers reliably.
Key Strengths
Financially rock solid with an A+ rating from AM Best for the MetLife parent company and an A rating for Farmers’ operations. The Deductible Savings Benefit lets you earn $50 annually for each claim-free year, maxing out at $250. Offers unique add-ons, such as new-car replacement coverage and identity theft protection, at no extra premium. Strong claims handling reputation with Farmers scoring above average in J.D. Power surveys.
Key Weaknesses
Premiums tend to run higher than those of competitors like GEICO and Progressive. Customer service reviews are mixed, with some customers reporting long wait times. The transition to Farmers means you can no longer purchase a standalone MetLife auto policy. Regional J.D. Power satisfaction scores vary widely, with some areas rating Farmers near the bottom.
MetLife Car Insurance Affordability
When it comes to pricing, MetLife, through Farmers, lands squarely in the middle of the pack on the cost of car insurance, though it leans toward the pricier end. Minimum coverage policies start at $68 to $74 per month for basic liability-only options. In comparison, full coverage (including collision and comprehensive) averages $185 to $261 per month for a typical driver in their 30s or 40s with a clean record.
Compared with market averages, MetLife rates are about 10% to 25% higher than those of budget-focused carriers like GEICO or Progressive. However, rates are generally lower than those of premium insurers like Allstate or State Farm. The company becomes more competitive when you factor in its discount structure and have the right profile to qualify.
The discount lineup includes several opportunities to shave dollars off your premium. Bundling your auto with home or life insurance earns up to 10% off both policies. Safe drivers with accident-free records for 3 years can qualify for an additional discount, and households where everyone stays clean for 5 consecutive years qualify for up to 20% savings. Good students under 25 maintaining solid grades can knock up to 15% off their premiums. Completing a defensive driving course saves around 7%. Choosing automatic payments, going paperless, and paying your premium upfront all chip away a few more percentage points. The company also offers affinity discounts for members of certain employer groups, alum associations, or professional organizations.
MetLife Car Insurance Coverage Options
MetLife/Farmers coverage options cover all the standard bases, plus some noteworthy extras that set the company apart. Standard policies include bodily injury liability, property damage liability, collision, comprehensive, medical payments, personal injury protection where required by state law, and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. You can customize limits to meet your state’s minimums or go well above for added protection.
Term lengths align with industry norms, typically offered in six-month or annual policy periods. Most customers renew automatically unless they make changes or cancel. The company does not provide traditional term-to-permanent conversion like life insurance, but you can adjust coverage levels freely at renewal or when significant life changes occur.
Add-on coverage options include some genuinely useful features. Gap coverage protects financed or leased vehicles by paying the difference between your car’s depreciated value and what you still owe if it’s totaled. Roadside assistance covers towing, jump-starts, tire changes, lockout assistance, and minor roadside repairs for just a few dollars annually. Rental car reimbursement pays up to $25 daily and $750 total while your vehicle is being repaired after a covered claim. New car replacement is a standout benefit that pays full replacement cost rather than depreciated value for totaled cars under one year old with fewer than 15,000 miles.
Riders and customization options extend further into specialty territory. Custom parts and equipment coverage protects aftermarket stereos, wheels, and accessories. Legal defense benefits cover attorney fees and up to $200 daily in lost wages for mandatory court appearances stemming from covered accidents. The company also offers commercial auto insurance and rideshare coverage for drivers working with companies like Uber or Lyft through its MyDirect program, though availability varies by state.
MetLife Car Insurance Reliability
MetLife’s financial backbone remains among the strongest in the insurance industry. AM Best, the leading insurance rating agency, assigns MetLife Inc. an A+ (Superior) rating, indicating excellent financial strength and the ability to pay claims without issue. Since the auto division now operates under Farmers, that entity carries an A (Excellent) rating from AM Best, still solidly in the top tier.
Additional rating agencies echo this financial stability. S&P Global rates MetLife at AA for its corporate credit, and Moody’s assigns an A1 rating. Farmers itself holds comparable marks with S&P, placing it at the A level. These ratings collectively indicate that both companies can handle large-scale claim events without financial strain.
The complaint picture shows reasonable performance relative to company size. According to NAIC data, MetLife historically maintained a complaint index around 1.00, meaning it received roughly the expected number of complaints for an insurer of its size. Farmers performs better on this metric, with complaint indices ranging from 0.36 to 0.71 across subsidiaries, indicating fewer complaints than the industry median.
With its founding on March 24, 1868, the parent company brings over 155 years of experience to the table. Farmers has operated since 1928, adding another century of institutional knowledge. This combined heritage means your policy is backed by organizations that have weathered economic downturns, natural disasters, and market shifts while continuing to honor obligations to policyholders.
MetLife Car Insurance Customer Service
Customer service delivery presents a mixed bag, with satisfaction varying significantly depending on who you ask and what region you’re in. The infrastructure exists to support customers effectively, but execution sometimes falls short.
Phone support operates through Farmers’ call center with extended hours running Monday through Friday from 7 am to 11 pm Central time and weekends from 8 am to 8 pm Central. Claims support is available around the clock, every day of the year, by calling 1-800-435-7764. Average wait times can stretch long during peak periods, with some customers reporting holds of more than an hour for routine inquiries. Quality of service tends to depend heavily on the individual representative, with some customers praising knowledgeable and helpful agents while others describe frustrating experiences.
Digital support options have earned more consistent praise. The Farmers mobile app scores 4.7 to 4.8 stars on iOS and 3.6 to 4.6 stars on Google Play, depending on the specific version and time frame. Users appreciate features like biometric login, mobile ID cards, bill payment, and the ability to file and track claims directly from their phones. The website provides comprehensive account management, quote tools, policy documents, and claim submission portals. Chat support is available on the website during business hours. Email response times vary, with routine inquiries typically receiving replies within one to three business days.
Third-party ratings offer additional perspective. The Better Business Bureau lists MetLife Inc. as unaccredited, meaning the company has not elected to meet the BBB standards. However, Farmers Insurance Group holds an A+ rating from BBB and has been accredited since 1951. Trustpilot reviews for Farmers show mixed sentiment, with ratings ranging from 2.1 to 4 stars depending on the specific Farmers entity and when the reviews were collected.
J.D. Power results paint a nuanced picture. For claims satisfaction, Farmers scored 706 out of 1000 in the 2024 study, above the industry average of 697 and ranking eighth among 21 rated insurers. However, regional satisfaction scores for overall experience vary dramatically. Farmers rank at or near the bottom in several regions, including New York, New England, and parts of the Southwest, while performing better in others. Reddit discussions highlight both positive experiences with claims handling and frustrations with premium increases and inconsistent customer service.
MetLife Car Insurance Claims Process
Filing a claim with MetLife/Farmers can be done through multiple channels, depending on your preference. The simplest method uses the Farmer’s mobile app, which lets you snap photos of damage, submit documentation, and track progress all from your phone. You can also file online through the Farmers website claims portal, which walks you through the necessary steps and information gathering. Traditional phone filing remains available through the 24/7 claims line.
After submitting a claim, expect a claims adjuster to contact you within 1 to 2 business days to begin the review process. The adjuster investigates the circumstances, reviews documentation, and assesses damage. Simple claims involving minor damage and clear liability often resolve within a few days to two weeks. More complex situations involving injuries, disputed fault, or extensive damage can take 30 to 60 days or longer. Straightforward property damage claims often see initial settlement offers within the first week.
Customer feedback on claims experiences tends toward positive, particularly for straightforward incidents. Farmers ranked highest among major insurers in one customer satisfaction survey, with 94% approval for claims handling. Common praise centers on responsive adjusters and fair settlement offers. Negative reviews typically focus on disputes over claim valuations, delays in processing complex claims, and occasional communication gaps. The company partners with ERAC and Hertz to provide discounted rental cars while vehicles are being repaired.
MetLife Car Insurance Application Process
Getting a quote and purchasing a policy can happen through several pathways. The most direct route is to visit the Farmers website and enter your information in the online quote tool. You’ll provide details about your vehicles, household drivers, desired coverage levels, and driving history. The system generates a rate estimate within minutes.
Online binding is available in most states, allowing you to purchase coverage immediately after reviewing your quote. The digital experience includes tools to compare coverage levels, see how discounts affect your premium, and adjust deductibles to find your preferred price point. If your employer offers MetLife affinity benefits, you may need to contact a dedicated representative or use a specific portal to access those rates.
Working with a local Farmers agent remains an option for those preferring face-to-face interaction. With over 48,000 agents nationwide, finding representation in your area is typically straightforward. Agents can explain coverage options, help identify eligible discounts, and guide you through the application process. Phone applications are also accepted through the main customer service line.
Digital calculators on the website help estimate appropriate coverage levels based on your assets, vehicle value, and risk tolerance. The quote process requires a valid driver’s license, vehicle information, including VINs, and honest answers about driving history. Most applicants receive instant decisions, though some profiles may require additional underwriting review before approval.
Pros & Cons of MetLife Car Insurance
Weighing the advantages against limitations helps determine if this insurer fits your needs. Here’s the honest breakdown.
Pros
Financial stability, as evidenced by AM Best A+ (MetLife) and A (Farmers) ratings, means you can trust that claims will be paid. The Deductible Savings Benefit rewards safe driving with up to $250 in deductible credits over time. New car replacement coverage offers genuine peace of mind for recent vehicle purchases. Strong claims satisfaction scores and 24/7 claims support provide reliability when it matters most. Bundling opportunities with other MetLife products, such as life and dental insurance, can create meaningful savings.
Cons
Premium pricing typically runs higher than budget competitors like GEICO and Progressive. The MetLife-to-Farmers transition may confuse some customers expecting traditional MetLife service. Customer service quality varies significantly by region and representative. Limited availability in some states and for certain coverage types restricts options. Regional J.D. Power satisfaction scores rank near the bottom in multiple areas.
Our Verdict & Rating for MetLife Car Insurance
MetLife car insurance, now delivered through Farmers, is a solid, if not spectacular, option for the right customer profile. You’re getting coverage backed by two legacy insurance organizations with combined histories spanning nearly three centuries. Financial stability is unquestionable, and claims handling consistently earns above-average marks from industry watchdogs.
The fundamental value proposition emerges when you can stack discounts effectively. Bundling home, life, and auto coverage while maintaining a clean driving record and accessing employer affinity rates can bring premiums into competitive territory. Without those factors working in your favor, you’ll likely find cheaper rates elsewhere.
For millennials specifically, the digital experience satisfies basic expectations but won’t blow anyone away. The app works well for routine tasks, online quotes flow smoothly, and claims can be handled without playing phone tag. But if you’re expecting cutting-edge insurtech features or social media-responsive customer service, look to newer market entrants.
Who Should Consider This Company?
Customers already holding MetLife life, dental, or disability coverage who want to bundle for discounts. New-car buyers want replacement-cost protection rather than depreciated-value payouts. Safe drivers who can capitalize on multiple accident-free discounts. Employer groups with negotiated MetLife affinity rates. People prioritize claims handling reputation over the lowest possible premiums.
Who Should Consider Another Provider?
Budget-focused shoppers seeking rock-bottom rates should compare GEICO car insurance or Progressive car insurance first. Drivers with accidents, violations, or poor credit may find better rates with insurers specializing in high-risk profiles. Customers in regions where Farmers ranks poorly for satisfaction might prefer local or regional carriers. Anyone uncomfortable with the MetLife-to-Farmers transition who wants a straightforward brand identity.
Frequently asked questions
Answers to your questions about MetLife car insurance.
MetLife sold its auto and home insurance division to Farmers Insurance Group in April 2021 for nearly $4 billion, so current policies are now under Farmers instead of MetLife directly.
Ideal customers are those who already have other MetLife products, want to bundle for discounts, own new vehicles, maintain clean driving records, or belong to employer groups with exclusive discounts.
MetLife’s rates through Farmers are generally in the middle, leaning towards higher-than-budget providers, but discounts and good driving history can help reduce costs.
Standard coverage includes liability, collision, comprehensive, medical payments, and uninsured motorist coverage, with add-ons like rental reimbursement, new car replacement, and roadside assistance.
