1. Car alarm. You’ve probably accidentally turned on a car alarm at least once in your life, and we can all agree that the sound of a car alarm is hard to miss. An alarm will most likely come pre-installed in your car (depending on the year, make, and model) and can alert you to someone trying to get into your car. Car alarms can also act as a good deterrent in stopping a thief from stealing your ride, as it can bring unwanted attention to your vehicle.

2. Additional locks. These might take a little bit of manual work on your end, but adding one or more extra locks to your parked vehicle will make it harder for someone else to take off with your car, or parts of it. Here are a few examples:

As for which of the above to use and when? That is up to you and your vehicle. For example, you may only want to use a boot if your vehicle is going to be parked for a longer period of time. In comparison, wheel nut and hood locks would be on your car at all times.

3. Immobilizer. This stops your car’s engine from running without the proper key. In fact, since 2007, anti-theft engine immobilizers are mandatory in new Canadian-built cars, vans, SUVs, and light trucks.3 If you have an older or imported vehicle, you could consider having a mechanic install an aftermarket immobilizer.

4. Faraday box. Also referred to as a Faraday cage or bag, this device blocks the signal of your key fob when it’s placed inside the box. Car thieves are able to amplify the signal of your key fob when it’s out in the open, even if your keys are in the house. This allows them to start your car without your key fob nearby. A Faraday box helps to prevent this from happening.

5. Anti-theft marking. Anti-theft marking systems help discourage the theft and re-sale of your vehicle by marking or etching different vehicle parts with a unique code.

Some insurance companies may offer a discount or savings for having an anti-theft device or tracking system installed on your vehicle. Reach out to your insurance provider to find out if they provide this type of savings and what requirements need to be met (it may only apply for certain devices or systems).

What else can you do to prevent car theft? 

Joy ride thieves. Often just in it for the thrill, these opportunists take advantage of cars left unlocked or running. While they might not keep the vehicle for long, they can still cause damage before abandoning it. 

Car bump carjackers. These individuals will bump into your car while you’re stopped, often in traffic. When you get out to check for damage, they jump into your vehicle and drive off. Always be cautious and stay in your car until you feel safe to exit.  

Professional car thieves. Highly skilled and fast, these thieves know how to bypass car security systems quickly and are often targeting high-value vehicles to sell for parts or ship overseas. To protect against these offenders, consider investing in advanced car theft protection. 

Is my vehicle at risk of being stolen?

Some makes and models are targeted more often by car thieves than others. Across Canada, the top ten stolen vehicles in 2022 were:¹

What should I do if my vehicle is stolen?

1. Report the theft to the police. File a police report as soon as possible and make sure to get a copy of the report. 
2. Call your insurance provider. Provide them with the police report and follow their instructions for starting a claim. 
3. Wait 72 hours. In most provinces, insurance companies will wait 72 hours after the theft is reported to see if the vehicle is recovered. 
4. Check your coverage. Review your policy to see if you’re covered for a rental car while waiting for your vehicle to be found or replaced. 

What coverage protects my vehicle against theft?

There are a couple of different coverage options under your auto policy that come into play if your vehicle is stolen:

As for coverage for items stolen from your vehicle, this will depend on what was stolen. Coverage may even come from your home policy.

Will I be covered for a rental vehicle if my car is stolen?

If your entire car is stolen and you have specified perils, comprehensive, or all perils coverage, your auto policy may help cover the cost of a rental vehicle comparable to your own, or with the cost of taxis or public transportation

The limit of this coverage varies by province and is provided by provincial policy wordings. For example, in Alberta, Nova Scotia and PEI, this coverage is limited to $25 a day, up to a total of $750. In Ontario, the limit is $900, and in New Brunswick coverage is $30 a day up to a maximum of $900. In Quebec, coverage is limited to a maximum of $40 a day and a total of $1,200 for the loss.

But, if you chose to purchase additional loss of use or transportation replacement coverage, you’ll typically be provided with a higher limit for rental coverage. Also, buying this optional coverage may waive the 72-hour wait period that would otherwise be required.

To find out exactly how you’re covered in the event your vehicle is stolen, be sure to review your auto policy or reach out to your insurance provider.

All in all, taking the time to be proactive can help you protect your car from falling victim to theft in the first place. Do your research to find out how car theft impacts your neighbourhood and what you can do to prevent it.