Guide to OPCF 16: Suspension of Coverage

Written by: R.E. Hawley
Insurance Writer
Reviewed by: Reza Aziz
Licensed Home & Auto Advisor
Edited by: Jessica Barrett
Content Marketing Manager
Updated
August 19, 2026
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Key Takeaways
  • OPCF 16 suspends all auto insurance coverage related to the use or operation of your insured vehicle.
  • Only comprehensive coverage and certain accident benefits remain active under OPCF 16.
  • Your vehicle must be in storage for at least 45 days in order to receive a premium refund.
  • Seasonal vehicle or homeowners, long-term travelers, military members, and anyone else putting a vehicle in storage for an extended period can use OPCF 16 to reduce costs.
  • OPCF 17 reinstates coverage when you’re ready to drive again.

What is OPCF 16?

OPCF 16 (“Suspension of Coverage”) is an optional Ontario Policy Change Form that can be used to suspend  auto insurance coverage for the operation of your vehicle if it’s in storage for an extended period of time. 

OPCF 16 retains coverage that isn’t related to driving the vehicle. This includes comprehensive coverage for theft, vandalism, severe weather, falling objects, and accident benefits that apply to you and your household if you’re injured in a car accident as a pedestrian or cyclist. 

You can only use OPCF 16 to suspend coverage if the vehicle will not be driven at all for at least 45 days. 

You can download OPCF 16 from the Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario (FSRA) website.

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How does OPCF 16 work?

OPCF 16 modifies your car insurance policy by suspending the sections of your Ontario Automobile Policy (OAP 1) that apply to the operation of the vehicle. The following sections are suspended by OPCF 16: 

In return for the suspension of coverage, OPCF 16 entitles you to a potential premium refund for the pro-rated portion of your premium that applies to these sections of your policy. Your insurance provider may issue a premium refund when the change form is signed or when you reinstate your coverage.  

OPCF 16 applies to your insured vehicle as well as to a newly acquired automobile or a temporary substitute automobile. To qualify for OPCF 16, the following must be true: 

  • Your car is in storage full-time, with absolutely no use: You can’t drive your car at all when OPCF 16 is in force, not even to the end of the driveway or to the store around the corner.
  • Your car is stored in a secure private garage: Street parking isn’t an option, because it exposes your vehicle to collisions with other vehicles on public roads. 

When you’re ready to drive again, you must reinstate your coverage using OPCF 17 (Reinstatement of Coverage). You cannot drive your vehicle until you receive confirmation that the coverage has been reinstated. 

What coverage does OPCF 16 not suspend?

OPCF 16 does not suspend comprehensive coverage. It also keeps certain accident benefits that apply to you if you’re injured in a car accident as a pedestrian. 

Speak to your insurance broker before attempting to suspend coverage with OPCF 16 to understand whether comprehensive insurance offers enough coverage for your stored vehicle. 

How much does it cost to add OPCF 16?

Because OPCF 16 suspends most of your insurance coverage, it will significantly reduce your insurance costs. With OPCF 16, you’ll only pay the premium for comprehensive insurance, which is typically around $20–$30/month. 

Who needs OPCF 16?

OPCF 16 is only needed for vehicles that will be stored and out of operation entirely for at least 45 days. Insurance companies will only issue a premium refund if the vehicle is stored for at least 45 days, making the suspension of coverage irrelevant for shorter periods of disuse. 

You may want to use OPCF 16 to suspend coverage if: 

  • You own a seasonal vehicle: If your vehicle is in storage for multiple months each year and only used for a short period of time, OPCF 16 can keep your insurance costs in line with your actual usage. 
  • You have a seasonal home: Snowbirds who travel south for the winter, leaving cars in storage at their year-round home, may need to use OPCF 16 to suspend coverage during the winter. 
  • You’re traveling for an extended time: If you take a trip lasting more than 45 days without your insured vehicle, OPCF 16 can reduce your expenses. 

Who cannot use OPCF 16? 

You cannot use OPCF 16 to suspend coverage if you have a financed vehicle.

Lenders and banks require anyone with an active auto loan to maintain both comprehensive and collision coverage on their vehicle. Because OPCF 16 suspends collision coverage, adding it to your policy would violate the terms of your financing agreement. 

OPCF 16 is not an effective way to save money if you rely on your vehicle for daily use. 

To qualify for a legal suspension of coverage with OPCF 16, you must agree not to operate your vehicle at any time, for any reason. This includes quick grocery runs, emergency trips to the hospital, and all other reasons for driving. If you’re considering suspending coverage on your vehicle to save on costs, selling the car may be a more effective way to reduce insurance costs while also receiving payment for the vehicle’s value.

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FAQ: OPCF 16

This article is for general information only and is not insurance or legal advice. Examples and any sample quotes or rate ranges are illustrative and do not constitute an offer or guarantee of coverage, price, or eligibility. Actual coverage, discounts, and premiums depend on your individual circumstances and the insurer provider; if there is any discrepancy, your policy and insurer documentation govern. For advice about your situation, speak with one of our licensed insurance professionals.