A car is stolen every 48 minutes in Ontario. From 2014 to 2021, there was a 72% increase in auto theft across the province, and a 14% increase in the last year alone according to Ontario Newsroom.
The most stolen vehicles in Canada include the Honda CR-V, Dodge Ram, Ford F-150, Toyota Highlander, and Honda Civic. To read the full list of the most stolen vehicles in Canada, Canadian Underwriter published an article on the Top Ten Stolen Cars in Canada for 2022.
Even if a vehicle has anti-theft technology, thieves can use readily available digital devices to hack its security system by intercepting radio frequency identification (RFID) signals between a vehicle and its key fob.
It’s important for drivers to use a combination of theft-prevention techniques – both low and high tech – to help reduce their exposure to vehicle theft. Here are some suggestions to keep in mind:
- Always lock your doors.
- Ensure that items are out of sight and do not leave valuables in your vehicle.
- Park inside a garage if possible.
- Secure your parked vehicle with a steering-wheel lock, brake pedal lock, or wheel lock.
- Use an RFID Blocking System to store key fobs.
- Install motion-activated lights and/or keep your outdoor lights on at night.
- Install a camera aimed at your driveway.
- If you have multiple vehicles, park the one of lesser value closer to the road.
- Stash a GPS tracking tag in your vehicle, so authorities can track it.
- Install a lock on your vehicle’s onboard diagnostic port (ODP).
- Never leave your vehicle running while unattended.
- Share any suspicious activity with law enforcement.
What To Do If Your Car Is Stolen
If your vehicle is stolen, contact the police immediately. You will likely need to provide the following information to the police:
- The year, make, model, and colour of the vehicle
- License plate number
- Vehicle Identification Number (also called the “VIN”)
- Location and time of the theft
- Insurance policy number
Disclaimer: The information provided on this blog is for educational purposes only and is not intended as professional insurance advice. The coverage, terms, and conditions of each insurance policy are unique and subject to individual circumstances. The information provided does not guarantee the availability or suitability of any insurance policy for your specific needs. You should not rely on the information in the blog as an alternative to professional advice from your Insurance Broker or Insurance Company. If you have any specific questions about any insurance matter, please consult a Licensed Insurance Agent or Insurance Broker for personalized advice and guidance.