Auto theft continues to be a pressing concern in Ontario, with nearly eight in 10 residents in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) describing it as a crisis, according to recent polling data.
The sentiment comes even as 2024 insurance data show a modest decrease in claims costs compared to last year.
A new survey commissioned by the Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) and conducted by Pollara Strategic Insights found that 76% of Ontarians believe the province is facing an auto theft crisis.
In the GTA, where most thefts occur, 63% of residents say they are worried about their own vehicle being stolen. Over half of respondents—56%—say auto theft is affecting their neighbourhood directly.
Ontario has seen a 165% rise in auto theft claims since 2017. The financial cost to service these claims has grown by 538% over the same period. While there are signs that current measures may be reducing the volume of claims, concerns remain high, especially in urban areas.
Survey results also indicate that concern varies by age group. Among those aged 18 to 34, 75% reported fear of their vehicle being stolen. The figure is slightly lower among those aged 35 to 54, at 67%, and drops to 52% for those 55 and older.
“The Ontario and federal government’s efforts to tackle auto theft are both commendable and were reflected in the decline in claims costs in 2024. But the crisis persists and requires continued leadership and focus,” said Amanda Dean, vice president for Ontario and Atlantic at IBC.
Amanda Dean was recognized as one of the Women Leaders in Insurance in Canada. Read the Elite Women special report here.
In response to growing public concern, insurers have voiced support for the federal government’s Strong Borders Act, which includes measures such as deploying more Canada Border Services Agency officers, increasing use of border scanners and drones, and expanding canine detection teams at ports and railyards. The initiative aims to reduce the movement of stolen vehicles across national borders.
Dean said that such efforts are necessary, but a more coordinated approach involving various sectors is still needed to reduce the incidence of theft.
The Pollara survey was conducted online from 23 to 29 April 2025 among 1,126 adults in the GTA. It was weighted to reflect the population's age, gender, and regional breakdown.
Do you feel your community is doing enough to deter auto theft? What steps should be taken next? Let us know in the comments.
