Type 2 vs. Type 2+: What’s the Difference and Which Should You Choose?

When deciding on a motor insurance plan in Thailand, many car owners run into confusing labels like “Type 2” and “Type 2+.” These labels indicate how much protection your policy gives you, especially when damage happens to your own car. Choosing the wrong type can leave you with big out-of-pocket costs later.

In this article, we’ll break down exactly what car insurance type 2 vs. type 2+ policies offer, their differences, and which one might suit your situation best. You’ll come away with a clear understanding—and no sales pitch. We’ll even weave in insight about car insurance type 2 so you see where it fits in context.

Key Takeaways

• Type 2 and Type 2+ are voluntary auto insurance tiers that cover third-party liability, fire, and theft, but differ in coverage for your own vehicle.

• Type 2+ adds protection for damage to your own car in collisions with other vehicles, and sometimes uninsured drivers.

• The best choice depends on your car’s age, value, driving habits, and tolerance for risk.

• Always compare premiums, read policy terms, and consider whether the extra premium for Type 2+ is justified by the extra coverage.

Understanding Car Insurance Types in Thailand

Overview of Compulsory vs. Voluntary Car Insurance

In Thailand, there is a baseline requirement called Compulsory Motor Insurance (Por Ror Bor). This covers bodily injury or death to third parties including pedestrians, drivers, and passengers—but it does not cover property damage or loss to your own vehicle or third-party property. Voluntary insurance plans (Type 1, Type 2, Type 2+, Type 3, Type 3+) sit on top of that to give extra protection.

Voluntary policies vary in how much risk they cover. Type 1 is the most comprehensive (covers nearly all accidents), while Type 3 or 3+ are more limited (basic protection). Type 2 and Type 2+ sit in the middle — offering moderate coverage at intermediate cost.

Why Choosing the Right Type Matters

If you under-insure and an accident hits you, you may end up footing large repair bills. If you over-insure, you’ll pay premiums for coverage you don’t really need. Misunderstanding terms or exclusions is a common cause of frustration in claims. Choosing the right type ensures you balance cost and protection sensibly.

What Is Type 2 Car Insurance?

Coverage and Protection

Type 2 covers:

• Third-party liability: damages you cause to other vehicles, injuries, or deaths.

• Fire and theft: if your vehicle is stolen or damaged by fire, Type 2 will cover that.

But Type 2 does not cover damage to your own car if you crash into another vehicle (when you are at fault). In other words, if you're in an accident and it's your fault, Type 2 won’t pay for your repair costs.

Who Should Consider Type 2 Insurance

Type 2 is often suitable if:

• Your car is older or has a lower market value — it may not be worth paying for full repairs under a higher tier.

• You drive cautiously or only occasionally, so accident risk is lower.

• You have a limited budget and must prioritize essential protection (third-party risks, theft, fire) over full coverage.

What Is Type 2+ Car Insurance?

Coverage and Protection

Type 2+ includes all the benefits of Type 2 (third-party, fire, theft), plus additional protection for damage to your own vehicle in collisions with other vehicles. For example, if you rear-end another car, Type 2+ can cover your repair costs (subject to policy terms). It may also offer coverage when the other driver is uninsured.

According to Allianz Thailand, their Type 2+ plan covers own damages in accidents involving another vehicle, loss, fire, third-party liability, and may include extras like free roadside assistance. 

Benefits of Type 2+ Coverage

• More peace of mind: you’re covered for your own repair bills in many collision scenarios.

• Can reduce financial burden after an accident, especially in busy traffic zones.

• Many insurers also bundle in helpful services (e.g. towing or roadside assistance).

Who Should Consider Type 2+ Insurance

Type 2+ is a strong option if:

• Your car is mid-range or relatively new and repair costs would be burdensome.

• You drive frequently, especially in congested or city environments.

• You’d rather pay a moderate premium increase to avoid large risk exposure.

Type 2 vs. Type 2+: Key Differences

Comparison Table

Coverage Aspect	Type 2	Type 2+
Fire & Theft of your car	✅	✅
Third-party liability (damage, injury, death)	✅	✅
Own vehicle damage in collision with another vehicle	❌	✅
Own vehicle damage when no third party involved	❌	❌ (unless otherwise extended)
Collision with uninsured driver	❌	Often included (subject to policy)
Premium Level	Lower	Higher (but typically moderate)

Real-Life Examples

• Collision with another car (you at fault): Type 2+ may cover your repair; Type 2 leaves you to pay all your repair costs.

• Your car stolen or damaged by fire: Both Type 2 and Type 2+ cover this.

• Hit by an uninsured motorist: Only Type 2+ may help cover your repair, depending on policy.

• You strike a fence or pole (no other vehicle): Neither Type 2 nor Type 2+ typically covers this scenario unless the policy includes additional clauses.

How to Choose Between Type 2 and Type 2+

Factors to Consider

Car Age and Value: If your vehicle is older or has depreciated significantly, the extra cost for Type 2+ might not be justified. Driving Habits / Location: Urban drivers, daily commuters, or frequent travel in traffic may benefit more from added coverage. Budget vs Risk Tolerance: Ask yourself, “If I hit another car, can I afford repair costs myself?” If not, Type 2+ may offer better value.

Tips for Making a Smart Decision

• Get quotes from multiple insurers for both types and compare the cost difference.

• Read the fine print: check for exclusions, sub-limits, depreciation, or conditions under which coverage is denied.

• Ask whether extras (e.g. roadside assistance, towing) are included or optional.

• If unsure, err on the side of protection — an unexpected accident can cost far more than extra premiums.

Pros and Cons at a Glance

Type 2 Insurance

Pros:

• Generally lower premium cost

• Covers essential risks (third-party, fire, theft)

• Good option for older or low-value vehicles

Cons:

• Doesn’t cover your own damage in collisions

• Leaves you vulnerable in more common accident scenarios

Type 2+ Insurance

Pros:

• Broader coverage, including your own damage in many collisions

• Greater peace of mind, especially in traffic-prone or high-risk driving

• Better balance between cost and protection (versus going full Type 1)

Cons:

• Premiums are higher than Type 2

• Still not as comprehensive as full coverage (Type 1)

• Some exclusions or limitations may apply (e.g. damage without other vehicle, depreciation)

Conclusion

When deciding between Type 2 and Type 2+, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Type 2 offers a cost-effective baseline for third-party liability, fire, and theft protection, making it a reasonable option for older or lower-value cars with cautious drivers. Type 2+ adds a meaningful layer of protection for your own vehicle in collisions with other vehicles and sometimes uninsured drivers, making it more suitable for mid-range cars and heavier users.

Your best choice depends on your car’s condition, your driving environment, and how much risk you’re comfortable carrying. Gather multiple quotes, read policies carefully, and weigh the extra premium against what you might have to pay if an accident happens.

FAQs

Q1: Is Type 2+ always much more expensive than Type 2? A: Not necessarily “much” more. The premium difference depends on car model, age, driving record, and insurer policy terms. In many cases, the added protection comes at a moderate increase.

Q2: Can I switch from Type 2 to Type 2+ during the policy period? A: In many cases yes, though it depends on your insurer’s rules. You’ll need to check whether the upgrade is allowed mid-term and if there’s a pro rata premium adjustment.

Q3: Will Type 2+ cover damage when I crash into a fixed object (like a pole) and no other car is involved? A: Usually not—Type 2+ typically covers collisions involving another vehicle. Damage without another party may fall outside the standard coverage unless specifically included.

Q4: Does Type 2+ cover water damage, floods, or natural disasters? A: That depends on the insurer and the policy. Some plans include flood or natural disaster protection; others treat it as an add-on. Always check your policy’s coverage details.

Q5: How old can a car be to be eligible for Type 2+ in Thailand? A: Some insurers limit Type 2+ to cars under a certain age (for instance, under 20 years) and may not require inspection for that threshold.