Car and parts theft: How to prevent it and what to do if it happens?

Why do car thefts drive up car insurance premiums?

The price of car insurance is determined by a number of factors, such as the vehicle owner’s profile, driving record, and place of residence, as well as the vehicle’s age and value, and the risk of theft. Car thefts in Montreal and in many regions across the province have increased in recent years.

Some vehicles cost more to insure because they are on the list of the most stolen vehicles. Shopping for a car? Do your homework or call your insurer to see if the model you want is listed. Some insurers even require anti-theft marking or a tracking system for certain models. See our 6 tips for saving on your premium and submit multiple quote requests.

How do thieves steal vehicles?

Thieves have adapted to new technologies, including keyless start devices. Using mobile devices and specialized software, they unlock your car doors by picking up the signal from the electronic keys and then drive away—all in less than a minute. This is a common practice for car thieves.

What happens to stolen vehicles?

Many are sold on the used car market with a brand new identification number (serial number), while others are dismantled or shipped abroad for resale. Some parts are prized, such as the catalytic converter , whose valuable metals are used to make things like cell phone batteries and electric vehicles. Sport utility vehicles (SUVs) and pickup trucks are particularly targeted as they offer more space under the vehicle, making it easier to steal this component.

What to do if your car is stolen

1. Call the police (but first make sure it wasn’t a distraction on your part!). Keep your theft report number.
2. If your car is equipped with a tracking system (e.g. Boomerang) or a telematics system (e.g. Ajusto), contact your provider so that they can quickly locate your vehicle in real time. If your car is on the move, let the police intercept the thieves.
3. Let your insurer know that your car has been stolen.

As soon as you file a claim, the insurer will start the compensation process according to the terms and conditions of your policy, i.e. depending on your coverage, your deductible, and the value of the vehicle at the time of the crime. For example, if the amount allocated for the replacement of your vehicle is $20,000 and your deductible is $500, you will receive $19,500. Don’t hesitate to contact CAA-Quebec’s Automotive Advisory Services for guidance in choosing a new car. 

If, by some stroke of luck, your vehicle is found, but has suffered some damage, the repairs will be covered by your car insurance.

Good to know! Your insurer can wait 30 days before compensating you to leave the police time to try and find the vehicle. Once the waiting period is over, you will receive a reimbursement that will enable you to buy another vehicle. The insurer is required to issue the reimbursement in the name of the owner of the vehicle and the creditor or lessor, if any.

If you added the QEF 20 “Travel expenses” endorsement to your insurance policy, your insurer will provide you with a replacement vehicle similar to your own during the waiting period or while your vehicle is being repaired. Check your policy for the maximum reimbursement per day and per claim for renting a replacement vehicle.

Which insurance pays for what?

Items that were in your vehicle at the time of the theft are also covered by your insurance. Items that are permanently attached to the vehicle (GPS, child car seat, bike rack, etc.) will be reimbursed according to the terms of your auto insurance policy, while items that are not used exclusively in the car (laptop, camera, or sunglasses) will be covered by your home insurance.

8 tips to prevent car theft

Although there is no such thing as zero risk when it comes to car theft, there are things you can do to help prevent it:

• Never leave your keys in the ignition if you’re not in the car, even for a few minutes.
• At home, keep your smart keys away from the front doors and get a specially designed storage pouch or protective case (available at department stores or at the CAA-Quebec Boutique).
• Make sure your doors are locked and the windows are closed before you leave the vehicle, whether or not there are items inside. In fact, this is in the Highway Safety Code. Section 381 provides that “no person may leave unattended a road vehicle that is in [their] custody without previously removing the ignition key and locking the doors.” The fine for this infraction varies from $60 to $120, plus costs.
• Have key components of your car engraved and get an effective anti-theft device, such as a steering wheel lock, tracking system, immobilizer, or alarm system.
• Avoid parking in remote or poorly lit areas that could make it easier to steal your car.
• Keep the exterior of your home well lit and have a clear view of your driveway and door so you can see what’s going on outside. Having exterior cameras installed can also be a deterrent.
• Store valuables in the trunk, especially computers. Better yet, don’t leave them in your vehicle.
• Keep insurance papers and registration certificates out of the vehicle.