Did you know that auto theft claims costs have skyrocketed by 524% across Ontario since 2018?¹ According to the Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC), over 105,000 vehicles were stolen nationwide in 2022, which averages out to one vehicle stolen every five minutes!¹ Read on to learn more about auto theft and discover ways to help keep your vehicle safe.

Why are vehicles stolen?
Organized crime groups often view the stolen vehicle trade as a low-risk way to make illegal profits.² Auto theft and insurance fraud are known to be linked to funding other criminal activities, including drug trafficking, arms dealing, and international terrorism.² Criminals typically target:²
 

1. New and luxury vehicles. In Ontario, most stolen vehicles are recent models (2019 and newer), as organized crime rings focus their efforts on stealing these vehicles to maximize their profit.
2. Push-button start vehicles. Keyless entry systems, including push-button start, allow owners to unlock and start their vehicles without taking their key fob out of their pocket. However, criminals can exploit this convenient technology using relay attacks. They can copy and amplify a key fob's signal, effectively unlocking the vehicle and letting them start it.
3. Vehicles without extra anti-theft protection. Criminals look for vehicles that are easy to steal, such as those left running, unlocked, or parked outside.

What happens to stolen vehicles?
There are three common outcomes for stolen vehicles:³
 

1. Shipped overseas.
2. Re-VINed and sold to unsuspecting Canadian customers.
3. Disassembled in “chop shops” and sold for parts.

Is your vehicle at risk of being stolen?
Each year, Equité Association releases a list of Canada's top 10 most stolen vehicles. Knowing whether your vehicle is on this list can help you assess your level of risk and decide on the necessary preventative measures. Below are the top 10 most stolen vehicles of 2023:
 

1. Toyota Highlander (2021)
2. Dodge Ram 1500 Series (2022)
3. Lexus RX Series (2022)
4. Honda CR-V (2021)
5. Toyota RAV4 (2021)
6. Honda Civic (2019)
7. Jeep Wrangler (2021)
8. Land Rover Range Rover Series (2020)
9. Chevrolet/GMC Suburban/Yukon/Tahoe Series (2023)
10. Chevrolet/GMC Silverado/Sierra 1500 Series (2006)

What can you do to protect your vehicle?
The best offence is a good defense. The IBC encourages a layered approach to protection:³

Layer 1: The simple, common-sense steps

• Keep doors locked at all times.
• Never leave keys in the ignition or start your vehicle remotely.
• Ensure windows are closed.
• Park in a well-lit area.
• Park in a secure garage if possible.

Layer 2: Install visible or audible anti-theft devices

Layer 3: Install a vehicle immobilizer

Layer 4: Invest in a tracking system

Remember to speak with your insurance broker before installing aftermarket technologies and check with your dealership before installing a tracking system (to ensure it doesn’t affect your vehicle’s warranty).

Thinking of buying a new vehicle?
Before you buy or lease a vehicle, keep in mind that several factors, such as the make, model, year, value, and potential repair costs, can affect the cost of insurance. It’s always a good idea to check with your insurance broker to understand the likely insurance costs associated with the make and model you’re considering.

If you're a current OTIP policyholder, contact us at 1-833-615-9329 to review your existing auto insurance policy and discuss enhancing your protection with additional optional coverage. If you’re not insured with OTIP and are shopping for auto insurance, call us at 1-833-494-0085 to get a quote and receive a $20 gift card of your choice!
 

1. Insurance Bureau of Canada – Insurance Bureau of Canada Reveals Ontario’s Top 10 Costliest Cities for Auto Theft Claims
2. Équité Association – Reasons Why Vehicles are Stolen
3. Insurance Bureau of Canada – End Auto Theft