New CAA study finds auto theft concerns highest in Toronto and the GTA

People living in Toronto and the GTA are the most worried about auto thefts.

That’s the finding of a new CAA Insurance Company survey.

Nearly half of respondents, 47 per cent, are very concerned about auto theft, but that number jumps to 57 per cent of those living in Toronto and the GTA.

Respondents living in northern Ontario were far less worried at 14 per cent while that number dropped to 10 per cent of those living in southwestern Ontario.

“As an organization, we are deeply concerned about the rising trend of auto theft in Ontario and across the country. The survey results highlight the urgency of taking comprehensive action to protect our communities,” said Elliott Silverstein, director of government relations, CAA Insurance Company.

Although many are anxious about car theft, far less believe it will actually happen to them. Only 30 per cent said they were worried that their car could be stolen.

Provincial officials say a car is stolen in Ontario ever 48 minutes. Auto theft across the province jumped by 72 per cent between 2014 and 2021, with a 14 per cent increase in the last year alone.

The CAA survey suggests basic auto theft prevention isn’t enough to keep your car safe.

• Eighty-two per cent of drivers are ensuring their vehicle is always locked.
• Seventy-seven per cent of drivers ensure valuables are out of sight.
• Nearly 50 per cent of drivers park their cars in locked garages.
• Six per cent of drivers use a steering wheel lock, and only 8 per cent
  use a Faraday box to block the transmission of RFID signals.

“Auto theft can happen to anyone, and drivers need to do more than just lock their doors to make their vehicle difficult to steal. We are urging Ontarians to take additional preventive measures to safeguard their vehicles, making them less appealing targets for thieves,” added Silverstein.

CAA is out with a list of tips to help you prevent anyone from taking your car:

• Secure your parked vehicle with an anti-theft deterrent such as a steering wheel lock, brake pedal lock or wheel & tire lock device like “The Club”
• Store your key fob in a Faraday box/pouch to block its signal from being hacked
• Lock your doors and if you have a garage, park your vehicle inside
• If you have multiple vehicles, park the less expensive one closest to the street
• Install motion sensors on your driveway and a camera to capture any activity
• Cover the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) so that it’s not visible on the dashboard
• Store an Air Tag in your vehicle to track your vehicle should it be stolen
• Ensure items are out of sight and do not leave valuables in your vehicle at all
• Never leave your vehicle running
• Share any suspicious activity with law enforcement