Article Summary
Newer SUVs dominate Canada's most stolen vehicle list, with annual theft losses exceeding $1 billion despite a 17 percent decline in theft rates in 2024. Insurance premiums remain elevated due to lingering effects of previous theft surges, and insurers increasingly require anti-theft technology like OBD locks and tracking systems before providing full coverage.
- Motor vehicle theft in Canada dropped 17 percent in 2024 compared to 2023, falling to approximately 239 incidents per 100,000 population
- Annual losses from auto theft still exceed $1 billion, with newer SUVs dominating the most stolen vehicle rankings
- Largest theft decreases occurred in Ontario (-18%), Quebec (-27%), and British Columbia (-12%)
- Insurers now require OBD port locks, immobilizers, or tracking systems before offering full theft coverage on frequently stolen models
- Keyless-entry weaknesses and relay attacks remain primary theft methods, making signal-blocking pouches, steering-wheel locks, and secure parking essential preventative measures
Toronto, Ontario -- Auto theft is continuing to drive up insurance costs in Canada, even as national theft numbers ease, according to LowestRates.ca.
The Équité Association has released its latest list of the most stolen vehicles in Canada. Newer SUVs dominate the rankings once again. Annual losses still exceed $1 billion, and brokers say the effects of several years of high theft activity continue to shape premiums for many drivers.
Canada’s national statistics agency reports that the rate of motor vehicle theft fell by 17 percent in 2024 compared with 2023, dropping to about 239 incidents per 100,000 population. The decline came after a three-year rise in auto thefts, and the largest decreases were seen in Ontario (-18 percent), Quebec (-27 percent), and British Columbia (-12 percent).
Fleur Dsouza, a licensed insurance broker and LowestRates.ca expert, says the market has not fully absorbed the surge in thefts.
“Even with thefts declining slightly, the cost impact is still sitting in the system. Vehicles that appear consistently on the most stolen lists tend to face higher comprehensive premiums because insurers are pricing for how frequently these models go missing and how expensive they are to replace. In some cases, insurers are also adding surcharges until drivers install approved anti-theft technology.”
She says keyless-entry weaknesses and organized crime networks remain central concerns. “A lot of the vehicles targeted today are stolen because they are quick to export and easy to breach through relay attacks. That is why insurers are increasingly requiring things like a Tag system, OBD lock or steering wheel lock before offering full theft coverage. These tools make a measurable difference in preventing theft and can sometimes help keep premiums more affordable.”
Dsouza notes that drivers often misunderstand what theft coverage includes. Insurance covers stolen vehicle parts but not personal items left inside. Claims timelines depend on whether a vehicle is recovered. Comprehensive coverage offers the broadest protection against theft, while specified perils also covers it but with fewer protections.
She says models that are stolen frequently may face higher premiums, stricter renewal conditions or mandatory anti-theft upgrades. Many insurers now require OBD port locks, immobilizers or tracking systems before granting full coverage.
Preventative measures remain the most effective way to avoid a loss. Dsouza encourages drivers to keep key fobs in signal-blocking pouches, use visible deterrents such as steering-wheel locks, install tracking systems and park in secure or well-lit areas whenever possible.
