Vehicle theft remains a concern for Ontario drivers, but there’s some encouraging news: the numbers are moving in the right direction. According to Équité Association’s 2025 Auto Theft Trend Report, vehicle thefts in Ontario decreased by 22 per cent compared with 2024. However, the problem hasn’t disappeared. Just 51 per cent of stolen vehicles in Ontario were recovered in 2025, meaning thousands were never found. For drivers, prevention remains an important part of protecting your vehicle. Whether you drive a frequently targeted model or just want to make your vehicle harder to steal, a few extra precautions can help. Understand how thieves target vehicles Vehicle theft isn’t limited to someone breaking a window or forcing a lock. Thieves can also use technology to exploit keyless entry systems, including relay attacks that can capture and amplify signals from a vehicle’s key fob. That makes protecting your keys an important part of your vehicle security strategy. If your vehicle uses keyless entry, consider storing your keys and spare keys in an RFID- or signal-blocking pouch. Keep them away from exterior doors and windows where the signal may be easier to access. You can also ask your vehicle manufacturer or a qualified automotive professional about available security updates or anti-theft devices. For more advice, check out CAA’s guide to protecting your vehicle from theft for several security measures Ontario drivers can consider. Add a physical layer of protection Technology can be part of the solution, but sometimes a simple visual deterrent can help, too. A steering wheel lock can make your vehicle more difficult to steal and signals to potential thieves that your car has an additional layer of protection. Other options may include a GPS tracking system or a device that helps protect the vehicle’s diagnostic port. No single device guarantees that your vehicle won’t be stolen, so consider combining several security measures rather than relying on just one. Consider an aftermarket immobilizer Most vehicles on the road today already have a factory-installed immobilizer, but thieves have found ways around some of these systems, such as programming a new key through the vehicle’s diagnostic port. An aftermarket immobilizer adds a second, independent layer of protection. Depending on the system, the engine won’t start until an extra step is completed, such as entering a PIN code using the vehicle’s existing buttons or having a separate key tag inside the vehicle. Because aftermarket immobilizers work separately from your vehicle’s original key system, a cloned fob or reprogrammed key on its own isn’t enough to start the engine. That can make it an effective way to reduce the risk of theft, especially if you drive a model that’s frequently targeted. Have the system installed by a qualified professional, and ask how it works day to day, whether it could affect your vehicle warranty and whether you should let your insurer know about it. Make your vehicle more resilient Good habits can also help reduce opportunities for theft. Even if you’re only stepping away from the car for a few minutes, always lock your doors and close your windows. At home, use your garage if you have one. If you’re parking outdoors, choose a well-lit, populated location whenever possible. And don’t forget about what’s inside your vehicle, either. Keep bags, electronics and other valuables out of sight, in the trunk, or take them with you, so nobody can easily see what’s in your car. These simple steps can also help reduce the risk of a vehicle break-in. CAA offers more tips for preventing vehicle break-ins. If your vehicle is stolen If you discover that your vehicle has been stolen, report it to police as soon as possible and contact your insurance provider. Have your vehicle identification number (VIN), licence plate number, make, model and other identifying information available. If you have a tracking system installed, provide the relevant information to police rather than attempting to recover the vehicle yourself. The progress made in tackling vehicle theft is encouraging, but it doesn’t mean drivers should let their guard down. With thieves continuing to target vehicles, combining smart parking habits, physical deterrents and anti-theft technology, such as an aftermarket immobilizer, can help make your vehicle a less appealing target and give you added peace of mind. CAA has also been advocating for measures to address the broader vehicle theft problem in Ontario and across Canada. You can learn more about CAA’s work on vehicle theft and its impact on drivers.
