Canadian vehicle theft concerns rise despite decline in reported incidents

A survey commissioned by the Équité Association and conducted by Angus Reid found that nearly 80 % of Canadians believe their vehicles are vulnerable to theft. The study highlighted modern tactics such as relay attacks that bypass simple door‑locking, and noted that organized crime groups have shifted from brute‑force methods to sophisticated, technology‑based thefts.

Even though vehicle thefts have fallen, 2025 recorded about 47 000 stolen vehicles in Canada, with more than a third never recovered. Insurance claims for auto theft dropped 31.5 % to 4 559, the lowest level since 2016, according to the Groupement des assureurs automobiles (GAA). The GAA pointed out that recent SUVs, notably the Toyota Tundra and Acura TLX, were the models most targeted, and that Montreal, Lanaudière, Mauricie, Centre‑du‑Québec and Laval experienced the highest theft rates. The average cost of claims rose sharply, driven by advanced vehicle technology and higher parts and labour costs.

In response, the Canadian federal government has launched a national action plan to disrupt, dismantle and prosecute organized car‑theft rings, including tougher criminal sanctions, stricter inspections of maritime containers and improved intelligence sharing. Industry officials stress the need for robust anti‑theft devices on new vehicles and for continued consumer vigilance.