It’s no secret that auto thefts have been an issue across not just Ontario, but the entire country. However, it appears that auto thefts are on the decline, according to a new report. The report finds that auto theft trends are down 19 percent across Canada in the first half of the year, compared to the same period in 2024. Ontario, in particular, is down 25%. The authors of the report, however, believe that people must remain vigilant to keep these numbers down. Let’s take a closer look at how auto theft is changing across the country.
“Optimistic Trend” for Auto Theft on the Horizon
It’s being referred to as an “optimistic trend” in provinces across the country, according to a report by Équité Association. This organization works to stop crime on behalf of the Canadian property and casualty insurance industry. The entire country has seen a significant decline in auto thefts, with the most notable drop occurring in Ontario. The province is down 25.9 percent, while Quebec has the second-largest drop at 22 percent. Between 2021 and 2023, both of these provinces experienced the highest rate of account theft. This was a time when Équité said Canada was facing a “national crisis” regarding car theft.
“This encouraging trend in decreasing auto theft in the most affected provinces demonstrates the success of collective investments, policies, and awareness campaigns,” the report states. While encouraging, Bryan Gast, Vice President of Investigative Services at Équité Association, believes vehicle owners should remain vigilant. Furthermore, different levels of government must collaborate to combat auto theft.
“This is not a victimless crime. It’s not a property crime. The proceeds of these stolen vehicles are funding organized crime, and it is affecting the communities in which we live,” Gast stated.
Rate of Recovery for Stolen Vehicles Up to 56 Percent
Another positive note from the study is that the national recovery rate for stolen vehicles increased to 56 percent in the first half of the year, up from 53 percent at the same time in 2024. A reason for this, Gast believes, is due to a spike in auto thefts in Canada during the COVID-19 pandemic. This was when supply chain issues with cars gave organized crime rings an opportunity to make money.
According to the report, the majority of stolen vehicles are personal passenger vehicles. These include pickup trucks, sedans, and SUVs.
According to Gast, he believes the drop in thefts and the increase in recoveries are linked to increased collaboration across different levels of government with agencies in other provinces. This work includes the creation of Ontario’s auto theft team. This team identifies crime hotspots while working with Ministries of Transportation to find gaps in vehicle registrations. In the past year, Ontario’s theft team received over $200 million in federal funding.
“I’ve never seen this collaboration, even in my 30 years of policing,” Gast stated. “This is a very large scale with multiple police services. Phenomenal results, and I think it’s showing.”
Please visit our blog for the latest list of the most frequently stolen vehicles nationwide.
Increased Emphasis Seen on International Organized Crime Related to Auto Theft
According to the report, there has also been an increased emphasis on cracking down on international organized crime and its relation to auto theft in Canada. If a vehicle is stolen, its information is sent to the Canadian Police Information Centre, which then shares it with Interpol.
“What used to go under the radar once it goes international, now it shows it’s stolen. It affects the criminal’s supply and demand,” he said.
Auto Thefts Dropping Across the GTA
Stephanie Sayer works with the Toronto Police Services. According to her, the city has seen a 34 per cent drop in auto theft cases so far this year. This is compared to the same period in 2024.
“That’s the result of sustained, focused efforts both within our Service and in collaboration with our policing partners across the GTA,” Sayer states. As of June 25th, there has been a 37% decline in auto thefts compared to last year, according to a news release from York Regional Police.
Conclusion
According to Gast, officials need to be aware of new technologies used by criminals to steal cars. Additionally, it is essential to be vigilant for suspicious activity. If possible, park your car in a garage and always keep doors and windows locked. To enhance safety, drivers should always use a steering wheel lock, pedal lock, and a tracking device on their vehicle. Although car thefts are down nationwide, it is essential to remain vigilant to reduce them further.
Remember, when it comes to keeping your car safe, insurance is a must. If you are in the market, don’t hesitate to contact us at isure or request a quote today!
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