Vehicle thieves in Canada keep on truckin’ : IBC

Organized criminals in Canada are increasingly targeting Ford F-series trucks, with these vehicles occupying seven of the top 10 spots on the country’s most frequently stolen vehicle list for 2014, note figures released Wednesday by the Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC).

Top 10 Most Frequently Stolen Vehicles in Quebec in 2013* were:

Ford F-250 SD 4WD 2007
Lexus RX 350 4D 2013
Acura Integra 2D 1999
Ford F-250 SD 4WD 2006
Ford F-350 SD 4WD 2007
Toyota Highlander 4D 2010
Toyota FJ Cruiser 4D 2008
Infinity FX 35 2004
Ford F-350 SD 2005
Toyota Highlander 4D 2013

The trend in the theft of these vehicles has continued for several years and there is nothing to suggest that thieves will change their targets soon. According to Charles Rabbat, Director, Investigative Services, Quebec and Atlantic Canada, the stolen vehicles will most likely be given a false vehicle identification number (VIN) and then sold to unsuspecting consumers.

Mr. Rabbat also noted that the export of stolen vehicles remains a major issue. “High-end vehicles, including those made by Lexus, Audi, BMW and Mercedes, are also targets for organized crime, which then ships them mainly to West Africa”, he said. In a new twist, for the first time this year, three stolen Ford F Series trucks intended for export were seized in the ports of Montreal and Halifax.

Drop in auto theft

In 2013, 17,766 vehicles were stolen in the province**, or one every 30 minutes, a 4.7% drop from 2012. While the incidence of auto theft has declined in Quebec, it remains big business.

Buyer beware

IBC reminds buyers to beware. “Given the number of stolen vehicles and parts that are sold online, if the deal seems too good to be true, it probably is”, noted Pierre Babinsky, Director of Communications and Public Relations.

Someone thinking about purchasing a used vehicle should make sure the vehicle is purchased from a reputable dealer. Also have it inspected by a trusted mechanic and run a vehicle history check. To be certain that stolen parts purchased on line are not used in your vehicle, take it to a reputable repair shop.

Remain vigilant

Mr. Babinsky also advises drivers not to make it easy for thieves. “Don’t leave your car running unattended while letting it warm up or just to run into the coffee shop”, he noted.

A professional thief can steal your car in about 30 seconds, but you can help to deter thieves by taking certain precautions.

Never leave your vehicle running unattended
Park in a well-lit area
Close car windows, lock the doors, and pocket your keys
Put your valuables and packages in the trunk, out of sight
Keep your car in the garage at night, if possible

*The Top 10 for 2014 is a list of the most stolen vehicles in Quebec in 2013.

Agencies/Canadajournal