The Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) has welcomed proposed amendments to Canada's Motor Vehicle Safety Regulations aimed at addressing modern auto theft techniques.
IBC said the updates reflect the federal government's commitment to its National Action Plan on Combatting Auto Theft and represent a necessary step for both public safety and the insurance sector.
According to the IBC, auto theft in Canada has increased over the past decade, in part because vehicles have become easier to steal. The bureau said modernized anti-theft standards are critical to reducing theft-related claims and mitigating financial losses for insurers, while also enhancing consumer confidence in vehicle security. Recent enforcement and prevention initiatives have helped reduce incidents over the past year, but IBC said rates remain above historical levels, and further action is needed.
“IBC and its members welcome the federal government’s proposed amendments to Canada’s Motor Vehicle Safety Regulations,” said Liam McGuinty, vice-president, Federal Affairs, IBC. He said the amendments would bring vehicle immobilization standards in line with international requirements, addressing sophisticated theft methods and protecting both consumers and insurers.
The federal proposals, released on Dec. 27, would replace the outdated CAN/ULC 1998 standard with the CAN/ULC 2025 standard. The new standard introduces a category for “electronic attack tools,” covering emerging technologies such as on-board diagnostics key programming devices, vehicle key emulators, and key signal relay equipment. The amendments are designed to ensure that all vehicles sold in Canada, including imports, are equipped to resist modern electronic theft techniques.
IBC said the proposed changes are a positive development for the property and casualty insurance sector, helping insurers manage risk exposure and reduce claims related to vehicle theft. The bureau pledged to continue working with federal authorities on implementation and public awareness initiatives.
