Avoiding auto theft: the least common stolen vehicles in Canada

Auto theft is on the rise in Canada, with over 105,000 vehicles stolen in 2022 alone—an average of one theft every five minutes. This alarming statistic underscores the need for car owners to remain vigilant. Opting for a vehicle that's less likely to be stolen not only offers peace of mind but can also lead to lower insurance premiums.

In this article, we'll explore the least common stolen vehicles in Canada, examine why they are less appealing to thieves, offer tips on protecting your vehicle from theft and outline the steps for reporting auto theft.

Understanding the statistics

Auto theft is a growing concern in Canada. The Insurance Bureau of Canada reports that Canada's private auto insurers paid out $1.5 billion in theft claims in 2023, a staggering increase from previous years. This surge has led to higher insurance premiums for car owners across the country.

Factors that make a vehicle less likely to be stolen

Avoiding auto theft can sometimes be as simple as choosing the right vehicle. Several factors can lower a vehicle's risk of theft, such as:

• Advanced security systems
• Less popular models
• Low resale value, like electric vehicles (EVs)
• Difficulty in exporting or dismantling for parts

Does owning or leasing a vehicle that is less likely to be stolen mean lower insurance rates?

Owning or leasing a vehicle with a lower theft risk can result in reduced insurance premiums. Insurance companies assess various factors, including a vehicle's theft rate, when calculating your premium. Selecting a vehicle that is less appealing to thieves can lead to lower insurance costs. 

Additionally, maintaining a claims-free record helps keep your rates down. By avoiding claims for a stolen vehicle, you preserve a clean claims history and benefit from lower premiums.

The top 10 least likely vehicles to be stolen in Canada

According to data from Équité Association, these were the ten least common stolen vehicles in Canada in 2022:

Tips for protecting your vehicle

To help keep your vehicle safe and avoid auto theft, consider these essential tips to minimize risk:

1. Park in well-lit areas. Always park your vehicle in well-lit areas or garages to deter thieves.
2. Lock your doors and windows. Never leave your car doors or windows unlocked, even for a short time.
3. Use anti-theft devices. Consider using steering wheel locks, brake locks and other visible anti-theft devices to make your car less attractive to thieves.
4. Install a tracking device. An aftermarket tracking device can help you recover your vehicle if it's stolen and may also lower your insurance premiums.
5. Store keys safely. Keep your car keys in a Faraday pouch to block signals and prevent thieves from using key fob cloning techniques.

Reporting auto theft

If your vehicle is stolen, report the auto theft to the police immediately. Provide them with all relevant information about your vehicle, including its make, model, colour and any distinguishing features. Notify your insurance company as soon as possible to begin the claims process. If you want to receive more insightful information like this, subscribe to our newsletter. 

In the unfortunate event that your car is targeted by thieves, the right insurance policy can help you get back to where you started. At Orbit Insurance Services, our experienced insurance brokers are dedicated to finding the most suitable and affordable coverage options to meet your needs. If you're shopping for auto insurance, you can request a quote here. 

If you're a current Orbit customer and have questions about your auto insurance policy, contact an Orbit insurance broker today.