Auto Theft

The most frequently asked question when it comes to auto theft is 'why do people steal cars?', well the answer is easy, the money that comes from boosting and stripping cars. When it comes down to it, stripping a car (of any kind) makes more money when sold in separate parts (wheels, radio, grill, engine etc.) then the car being sold as a whole. 

Canada's top 10 most dangerous cities when it comes to auto theft are;

1	Fort McMurray, Alta.
2	Joliette, Que.
3	Surrey, B.C.
4	Kelowna, B.C.
5	Brantford, Ont.
6	Edmonton, Alta.
7	Grande Prairie, Alta.
8	Winnipeg, Man.
9	Langley Township, B.C.
10	Saskatoon, Sask.

The top 10 most stolen vehicles in Canada are as follows;

1. 2000 Honda Civic SiR 2DR

2. 2006 Chevrolet Trailblazer SS 4DR 4WD SUV

3. 2002 Cadaillac Escalade 4DR 4WD SUV

4. 2005 Cadaillac Escalade 4DR 4WD SUV

5. 2006 Ford F350 SD 4WD PU

6. 2005 Cadiallac Escalade ESV 4DR AWD SUV

7. 2006 Acura RSX TYPE S 2DR 2D

8. 2007 Ford F250 SD 4WD PU

9. 2007 Ford F350 SD 4WD PU

10 .2003 Acura RSX TYPE S 2DR 2D

According to Statistics Canada, a vehicle will be stolen before you finish reading this blog post. On average, 400 vehicles are stolen every day. According to the Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC), car theft costs Canadians about $1.2 billion a year in out-of pocket-costs including deductibles, added health care, court and legal costs. Although auto theft has decreased over the past years, this trend will not continue. Auto theft is based on basic supply and demand. 

Here are a few suggestions when it comes to keeping your vehicle safe from theft

- Always roll up your windows, close your sunroof, and lock up when leaving your vehicle.

- Put the key in your pocket or purse as soon as you lock the vehicle and never leave keys in your vehicle or in the ignition. It only takes a moment for someone to jump in and drive away (20% of stolen cars have keys in them.)

- Keep your vehicle registration and proof of insurance on you, in a wallet or purse at all times - don't leave these documents in the glove box.

- Do not leave valuable items such as laptops, sports equipment or packages in clear view. Keep them in your trunk or out of sight.

- Make sure to park in a well lit, busy area.

- Get your car parts marked (etched). This could deter thieves, as they resell car parts and this would make your car a less attractive target.

- If you park in your own private garage, lock both the garage and your car.