Your clients may love big, rugged trucks, but unfortunately so do thieves right across the country.
This year’s Top 10 Most Frequently Stolen Vehicles list, published annually by
Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC), shows a growing interest by organized criminals in Ford (“F”) series trucks.
“The trend of stolen F-series trucks was also seen in Alberta where there was a 50 per cent increase,” said Rick Dubin, vice-president, investigative services for IBC. “What’s more, for the first time in years, 3 stolen F-series trucks, intended for export, were seized at the ports of Montreal and Halifax.”
Given these trends, Dubin believes that the majority of stolen F-series vehicles were most likely re-vinned (given a false vehicle identification number (VIN)) and sold to unsuspecting consumers.
In addition to the increase in F-series trucks on this year’s list, high-end vehicles, including those made by Lexus, Audi, BMW and Mercedes, were a target for organized criminals who then likely shipped the vehicles to West Africa.
Auto theft declines
While the incidence of auto theft in Canada has decreased, it is still big business. In 2013, for example, 72,804 vehicles were stolen, an 8 per cent drop from the previous year. However, organized criminals are concentrating on acquiring more high-end vehicles.
While most provinces showed a decline in auto theft, Newfoundland and Labrador had a 2 per cent increase, Alberta an 11 per cent increase and Yukon a 29 per cent increase. Recovery rates for stolen vehicles continue to be low. (continued.)
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The Top 10 Most Frequently Stolen Vehicles this year in Canada are:
FORD F-350 SD 4WD PU 2007
FORD F-350 SD 4WD PU 2006
FORD F-250 SD 4WD PU 2007
CADILLAC ESCALADE 4DR 4WD SUV 2003
FORD F-350 SD 4WD PU 2005
HONDA CIVIC 2DR COUPE 2D 1999
FORD F-350 SD 4WD PU 2004
FORD F-250 SD 4WD PU 2006
HONDA CIVIC SiR 2DR 2D 2000
FORD F-350 SD 4WD PU 2003
*To view the Top 10 Most Frequently Stolen Vehicles in Ontario, Atlantic Canada and Alberta click
here.
Buyer beware
IBC is asking brokers to remind clients of that old chestnut, Let the buyer beware. Given the amount of stolen vehicles and parts that are sold online, if the deal seems to be too good to be true, it probably is.
Brokers can post on Facebook or Tweet that for those who are considering purchasing a used vehicle, be sure to purchase it from a reputable dealer, have the vehicle inspected by a trusted mechanic and run a vehicle history check.
To be certain that stolen parts purchased online are not used in your vehicle; take your car to a reputable repair shop, says Dubin, adding that brokers can play a lead role in providing recommendations to clients.
“Taking these simple steps can help ensure your safety and may save you a headache down the road,” adds Dubin.
Remain vigilant
Once the vehicle is purchased, there is a very simple way to deter thieves – by taking your keys with you.
“Don’t make it easy for thieves. Approximately 20 per cent of all stolen vehicles have keys in them,” says Dubin. “Don’t leave your car running unattended while letting it warm up or when you to go into the coffee shop.”
