If you’ve ever bought car insurance, chances are you’ve heard the phrase “full coverage” thrown around. But what does it actually mean—and do you really need it?
At our Glenpool agency, we help drivers figure out what coverage they actually need, not just what sounds good. Here’s a clear breakdown so you can make the right call for your situation.
What Is “Full Coverage” Anyway?
Despite how it sounds, “full coverage” isn’t a real policy type. It’s just a common term that usually refers to a combination of:
Liability coverage (required by law in Oklahoma)
Comprehensive coverage (covers things like theft, hail, vandalism, etc.)
Collision coverage (covers damage to your car in an accident, regardless of fault)
So if you have all three, most agents will say you have “full coverage.” But it’s not unlimited—and it’s not always necessary.
When Full Coverage Does Make Sense
Here are a few situations where full coverage is often a smart move:
1. You’re still making payments on your car.
Lenders almost always require full coverage.
2. Your car is newer or worth more than $5,000–$7,000.
If you couldn’t easily afford to repair or replace your vehicle out of pocket, full coverage is worth the peace of mind.
3. You rely heavily on your car for daily life.
If being without your car for even a few days would seriously disrupt your work or routine, the extra protection is often worth it.
When You Might Not Need Full Coverage
On the other hand, full coverage might be overkill if:
Your car is older or has a low market value.
You’ve saved enough to replace it in a worst-case scenario.
You want to reduce your monthly insurance costs and are okay with more financial risk.
Example:
If you’re paying $80/month for comp & collision on a car worth $2,500, and your deductible is $1,000… you might be paying more than you’d ever get back.
Not Sure What’s Right for You? Let’s Do the Math.
We’ll help you figure out if full coverage is a good value—or if you’re better off switching to liability-only and putting that money elsewhere.
Bottom Line: One Size Doesn’t Fit All
“Full coverage” sounds great, but the right insurance should be based on your budget, your car’s value, and your comfort with risk.
Want an honest review of your coverage? Reach out today—we’ll walk you through the numbers and make sure you’re not overpaying or underinsured.
