Auto Theft is on the Rise: Is Your Vehicle a Target?

IBC releases annual list of Canada’s most stolen vehicles.

Canada’s best-selling vehicle is also its most stolen. According to the Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC), the Ford F-series of trucks are overwhelmingly popular with auto thieves across the country. In its annual publication of the most stolen vehicles in Canada, Ford pickups took nine out of the 10 spots.

The 10 most stolen vehicles in Canada: Ford F-series owners take note!

  1. 2007 Ford F-350 Super Duty 4WD Pickup
  2. 2006 Ford F-350 Super Duty 4WD Pickup
  3. 2005 Ford F-350 Super Duty 4WD Pickup
  4. 2004 Ford F-350 Super Duty 4WD Pickup
  5. 2003 Ford F-350 Super Duty 4WD Pickup
  6. 2006 Ford F-250 Super Duty 4WD Pickup
  7. 2001 Ford F-350 Super Duty 4WD Pickup
  8. 2000 Ford F-250 Super Duty 4WD Pickup
  9. 2015 Lexus GX460 AWD SUV
  10. 2001 Ford F-250 Super Duty 4WD Pickup

The results are similar to last year’s most stolen vehicles list where the Ford F-series of trucks also dominated by taking eight of 10 spots. In fact, the pickups have ruled the IBC’s most stolen list for years.

Auto theft is on the rise in Canada

Cars are stolen for a variety of reasons. Stolen vehicles may be sold to unsuspecting drivers who are unaware they are buying a stolen vehicle, scrapped for parts, or used to commit another crime, says the IBC. Often, stolen vehicles are smuggled out of the country for resale elsewhere.

Motor vehicle theft is surprisingly common and is becoming even more frequent: there were almost 85,000 reported vehicle thefts last year, according to Statistics Canada, representing a six per cent increase from the year prior. That’s about 233 vehicles a day being taken.

How does vehicle theft affect your car insurance premiums?

If your auto insurance policy includes comprehensive coverage, the likelihood of your vehicle being stolen will affect the premium you pay. This is an optional coverage which will help offset the costs of repair or replacement if your vehicle is taken. It also protects you from vandalism and other non-collision related damage.

With this coverage in place, your insurance provider will look at theft rates in your area as well as whether or not your vehicle is a popular pick by thieves. If in either instance the chances are greater for theft, your premiums will reflect this added risk. Driving a vehicle that is more prone to theft, as a result, will likely result in a higher premium.

Tips to prevent your vehicle from being stolen

Whether you drive a vehicle that is a common target for thieves or not, the IBC offers the following tips to protect your vehicle from theft.

  • Never leave your vehicle running when unattended, even if it is just for a minute.
  • Park in well-lit areas.
  • Ensure the windows are closed and the doors are locked after you leave your vehicle.
  • Put valuables and packages in the trunk.
  • Never leave money in the car in plain sight.
  • Never leave a spare key or GPS in the vehicle.
  • Keep your car in the garage at night.
  • Don’t leave personal information in the glove box. Take your insurance and ownership documents with you anytime you park your vehicle.

Auto theft may be on the rise, but you can lower your car insurance rate

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