Equité Association’s Annual Stolen Vehicle Report: Is Your Car on a Thief’s Shopping List?

Auto theft is a growing concern in Canada, and car owners must stay informed and take preventive measures to protect their vehicles. Équité Association, a not-for-profit organization working to combat insurance crime in Canada, has released its annual Top 10 Most Stolen Vehicles in Canada. In this blog post, we will reveal the top 10 most and least stolen vehicles in Canada, explore the key findings from the report, and discuss strategies to protect your vehicle from theft.

The Top 10 Most Stolen Vehicles

Équité Association’s report reveals the top 10 most stolen vehicles in Canada for 2022, with the Honda CR-V taking the first place for the second consecutive year. Nine of the most frequently stolen models are from the model year 2019 or newer. The reason is that criminals target newer vehicles for their higher resale value, either exporting them overseas or altering the Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs), also known as re-vinning, to deceive Canadian buyers. According to the Équité Association, law enforcement does not recover over 40% of vehicles stolen in Canada.

The Top 10 Least Stolen Vehicles

For the first time Équité announces a Top 10 Least Stolen Vehicles in Canada. To provide further context for the rising trend of auto theft in Canada, Équité has released two new lists: Top 10 Least Stolen Vehicles in Canada and Top 10 Most Stolen Vehicles in Canada – Theft Frequency (ranked by how frequent the make/model is stolen when compared to how many of the respective make/model are insured)

Rising Trends in Auto Theft

The report highlights the alarming increase in auto theft rates, with Ontario experiencing a 48% surge and Quebec witnessing a 50% rise in thefts in 2022. These statistics place Canada in the international spotlight as a source country for illegal trade. Auto thefts are carried out by both domestic and international criminal organizations, with the proceeds often funding other illegal activities.

Collaborative Solutions and Preventive Measures

Équité Association emphasizes the need for a collaborative approach involving auto manufacturers, government agencies, and law enforcement to address the escalating auto theft problem. As the owner of a vehicle, you can take proactive steps to protect your car:

Stay Informed: Consult your insurance broker and Équité’s list of the most stolen vehicles in Canada to determine if your vehicle is at high risk for theft. This information can help you make informed decisions when purchasing a car or taking preventive measures for your existing vehicle.

Vehicle Immobilizers and Theft Deterrents: Consider investing in a vehicle immobilizer or other theft deterrent methods. These devices can significantly reduce the chances of car theft. Tag tracking, North America’s most effective vehicle tracking and recovery system, is highly recommended. Tag uses several wireless tracking devices installed throughout the vehicle and on high-value parts often sought after by thieves. If parts are stolen, they are marked, making it much harder to buy and sell on the black market.

Secure Parking: Park your vehicle in well-lit areas, preferably with surveillance cameras. If possible, consider using a locked garage or a designated parking spot with security measures in place.

Locks and Alarms: Use high-quality locks and alarms on your vehicle. Always close all windows and lock doors whenever you leave your car unattended.

Valuables and Keys: Avoid leaving valuables visible inside your vehicle, as this can attract thieves. Additionally, never leave spare keys inside the car, even if it’s parked in a seemingly safe location.

Auto theft is a significant problem that requires collective action to combat effectively. By staying informed about the most frequently stolen vehicles, investing in theft deterrent measures, and employing safe parking practices, you can significantly reduce the risks of car theft. Stay vigilant, stay informed, and keep your car safe from the thief’s shopping list.

Remember, proactive measures can go a long way in safeguarding your vehicle and ensuring peace of mind for you as a car owner.

Stay safe and secure!