Auto theft in Ontario has seen a significant increase in recent years, with both urban and rural communities affected. Understanding the current trends, targeted vehicles, and preventive measures can help protect your vehicle from becoming a statistic.
Current Trends in Ontario Auto Theft
According to the Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC), auto theft losses amounted to over $1.5 billion in 2023, marking a nearly 20% increase from 2022. While Ontario experienced a 16% decrease in theft claims in the first half of 2024, the overall trend indicates that auto theft remains a pressing issue in the province. Experts caution that this may be due to thieves shifting focus to other regions rather than a genuine reduction in criminal activity. (ibc.ca)
Most Stolen Vehicles in Ontario
High-end SUVs and trucks are frequently targeted by thieves in Ontario. While specific rankings may vary over time, the following vehicles have been identified as common targets:
- Lexus RX Series
- Toyota Highlander
- Dodge Ram 1500 Series
- Honda CR-V
- Land Rover/Range Rover Series
- Chevrolet/GMC Suburban/Yukon/Tahoe Series
- Jeep Wrangler
- Toyota RAV4
- Honda Civic
- Ford F-150 Series
It’s important to note that thieves often target newer models of these vehicles due to their higher resale value and demand in illegal markets.
Preventive Measures Against Auto Theft
Protecting your vehicle requires a combination of simple habits and advanced technologies:
- Keep doors locked and windows up. Don’t make it easy for them to access your vehicle.
- Keep Valuables Out of Sight: Visible valuables can attract opportunistic thieves. Ensure personal items are hidden or removed from the vehicle.
- Park in Secure Areas: Whenever possible, park your vehicle in a garage or well-lit area. Thieves are less likely to target cars in visible, secure locations.
- Use Physical Deterrents: Devices like steering wheel locks (“clubs”) can deter thieves by adding a visible layer of security.
- Employ Immobilizers: Electronic immobilizers prevent the engine from starting without the correct key, making it more difficult for thieves to steal your vehicle.
- Regularly Update Vehicle Software: Some manufacturers release security updates to address vulnerabilities. Keeping your vehicle’s software up-to-date can help protect against electronic theft methods.
What to Do If Your Vehicle is Stolen?
If your vehicle is stolen, acting quickly increases the chances of recovery. Here are the top three steps you should take:
1. Report the Theft to the Police
- Call your local police department immediately and provide details such as make, model, year, colour, license plate number, and any identifying features.
- Ask for a police report number, which you’ll need for insurance claims and other documentation.
2. Contact Your Insurance Broker
- Notify your insurance broker as soon as possible to begin the claims process.
- Provide the police report number and details about the incident.
- Inquire about coverage for a rental car including the dollar limit of the coverage as well as if there are a certain number of days you qualify for this coverage.
3. Use Your Vehicle’s Mobile App (If Available)
- Many modern vehicles come with mobile apps that offer security features. Depending on your car’s manufacturer, you may be able to:
- Locate your vehicle using GPS tracking.
- Disable the engine remotely (if the feature is supported).
- Lock or unlock doors to assist law enforcement.
- Activate the horn or lights to draw attention if your vehicle is nearby.
- Contact your manufacturer or app provider to confirm the available features and how to use them in a theft situation.
Conclusion
Auto theft remains a significant concern in Ontario. By staying informed about current trends and implementing a combination of preventive measures, you can reduce the risk of your vehicle being targeted.
At Strong Roots Insurance Brokers, we’re committed to helping our community protect their assets. If you have questions about your auto insurance coverage or want to learn more about protecting your vehicle, give us a call today.
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