Among the most distressing occurrences for a shop owner and the customer, is to find out there has been a vehicle theft on the premises.

While the technology in vehicles continues to evolve, thieves continue to stay a step ahead and now use technology to bypass security systems and electronically gain access to Canadians’ vehicles.

However, the presence of ignition immobilizer technology is still a major deterrent to vehicle theft.

The Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) is finding that technology is having a major impact on vehicle theft, evident in its annual list of Canada’s most frequently stolen vehicles.

Shop owners and other professionals should be mindful of this list when considering which vehicles should be left outside overnight, and which should not.

2019 Top 10 Stolen Vehicles

IBC’s Top 10 Stolen Vehicles list is compiled using data from IBC’s member companies across the country.

This year’s list includes nine vehicles that don’t have ignition immobilizers. The lack of an ignition immobilizer is the number one reason this series of Ford trucks continues to take up the majority of spots on the list.  

1. Ford 350SD AWD 2007
2. Ford 350SD AWD 2006
3. Ford 350SD AWD 2005
4. Ford 350SD AWD 2004
5. Ford 250SD AWD 2006
6. Ford 350SD AWD 2003
7. Lexus RX350/RX350L/RX450h/RX450hL 4DR AWD 2018
8. Ford F250 SD 4WD 2005
9. Ford F350 SD 4AWD 2002
10. Honda Civic Si 2DR Coupe 1998

Tips to prevent auto theft  

Even with today’s tech-savvy thieves, there are a number of steps Canadians can take to help protect themselves from becoming a victim of auto theft. This is as true of shops as it is for consumers.

• Don’t leave a keyless entry fob in a vehicle or unprotected at the front entrance. Thieves can use wireless transmitters to intercept the signal, giving them access to the vehicle. Consider storing fobs in a protective box or bag that blocks the signal.
• Install an immobilizing device which prevents thieves from bypassing the ignition and hot-wiring a vehicle. This can include devices that require wireless ignition authentication or starter, ignition and fuel pump disablers.
• Install a tracking device that emits a signal to police or a monitoring station if a vehicle is stolen.
• Don’t make your vehicle an easy target:
  • Never leave a vehicle running when unattended.
  • Lock the doors and close all windows when parked.
  • Make sure to park in well-lit areas or in the garage.
  • Use a visible or audible device that shows thieves a vehicle is protected.
  • Consider using a deterrent like a steering wheel or brake pedal lock.
  • Don’t leave personal information, like insurance and ownership documents, in the glove box when parked.