How to prevent car theft and what to do if it happens

8 simple steps to prevent car theft

There’s no such thing as zero risk, but these steps greatly reduce the likelihood of vehicle theft. Here are a few key points to remember before leaving your vehicle:

• Never leave your keys in the ignition if you’re not inside the vehicle, even for just a few minutes.
• Keep your smart keys away from entry doors. Use a Faraday bag, signal-blocking pouch or protective case, available at most retailers or at the CAA-Quebec Boutique.
• Always lock the doors, windows and sunroof before walking away from your vehicle. The Highway Safety Code (Section 381) actually requires drivers to remove the key and lock the doors. The fine for this offence ranges from $60 to $120, plus fees.
• Have the key parts of your vehicle etched (marked).
• Choose safe parking spots: Avoid isolated or poorly lit areas. Also make sure there’s good lighting outside your home and keep a clear view of your entrance. Consider adding outdoor security cameras.
• Store valuables in the trunk (laptop, smartphone, bags). Even better, don’t leave them inside your vehicle at all.
• Keep your insurance and registration certificates somewhere other than in the car.
• Equip your vehicle with anti-theft systems and keep them activated: Alarm, immobilizer, steering wheel locks or tracking device. Check regularly that they’re working properly to deter car thieves and make it easier to recover your vehicle if it’s stolen.

Why does car theft drive up auto insurance premiums?

Every car theft leads to costly claims for insurers, who must compensate owners or replace stolen motor vehicles. As the number of thefts rises, the overall risk increases and the average cost of claims goes up. This affects auto insurance rates for all drivers and often results in higher premiums.

Several factors explain the impact of car theft on your auto insurance premium, including:

• Claims history
• Place of residence
• Age and value of the vehicle
• High risk of theft

Shopping for a vehicle?

Don’t hesitate to get multiple quotes from different insurance companies:

• Check whether the model you’re considering is on the list of most stolen vehicles.
• Ask your insurer whether certain prevention measures or security systems (etching, tracking, anti-theft system) can help you get a better rate on your premium.

Listen to the CAA-Quebec podcast on car theft and its impacts (in French only) to learn more.

How do thieves go about stealing a vehicle?

Hacking electronic systems is at the heart of car theft, particularly thefts involving smart keys. Understanding the methods used by thieves will help you better protect your vehicle.

Main methods used:

• Relay theft and relay attacks (the most common method in Quebec): The smart key’s signal is captured remotely, then relayed to the vehicle to unlock and start it.
• OBD port hacking: Reprogramming a new key using the vehicle’s diagnostic port.
• Lock jamming: The vehicle doesn’t lock, and the driver doesn’t realize it.

These theft techniques explain why vehicles with smart keys are especially targeted, even when parked at home. To reduce this risk, keep your keys away from doors and windows and use a signal-blocking pouch.

What to do if your car is stolen

Here are the steps to take as quickly as possible if your vehicle is stolen:

1. Check that your car isn’t simply parked somewhere else: It’s an easy mistake to make!

2. Call the police and keep the theft report number.

3. Contact your tracking system provider (Boomerang, Ajusto…) to locate your vehicle. Let the police handle it from there if needed.

4. Notify your insurer promptly about the theft of your vehicle. Your compensation will depend on your coverage, deductible and the value of the vehicle. If your car is found damaged, the repairs will be covered by your auto insurance.

Good to know: Your insurer may take up to 30 days to pay out the insurance claim. This gives authorities time to locate the vehicle. If you have the QEF 20 “Transportation Expenses” endorsement, a replacement vehicle may be provided while you wait or during repairs. Be sure to check the daily limits per claim.

If needed, contact CAA-Quebec’s Mobility Advisory Services for guidance on choosing a new vehicle.

What insurance covers theft of items from your car?

Here’s an overview of coverage based on the type of item:

• Vehicle-related items: Objects that are fixed to or intended for use with the vehicle (e.g., a mounted GPS, child car seat) are generally covered by your auto insurance.
• Personal items: Personal belongings not related to the vehicle (e.g., laptop, camera, sunglasses) generally fall under your home insurance instead. Be sure to check your coverage and limits.

To learn more and avoid surprises, check out our article Does my insurance cover everything in my car?

Preventing vehicle theft starts with good habits and the right auto insurance

To prevent vehicle theft, always lock your doors and keep your key fob out of reach. Consider installing a tracking system or an effective anti-theft device. Finally, learn more about the protections offered by your auto insurance. By taking action now, you reduce the risk of car theft … and the hassle that comes with it.