Auto theft insurance claims and losses declined in Canada in 2025, according to new data released by the Insurance Bureau of Canada.
The industry association said theft claims fell 24 per cent year over year in 2025, while the value of claims dropped 30 per cent. Total theft-related losses reached $724 million last year, down from more than $1 billion in 2024.
“The recent decrease in auto thefts is the result of concrete actions by governments of all orders, as well as law enforcement,” said Liam McGuinty, VP of Federal Affairs at the Insurance Bureau of Canada.
IBC credited federal investments in Canada Border Services Agency technology and enforcement powers, along with proposed Criminal Code amendments, as contributing factors behind the decline. The organization also praised Ontario’s continued investments aimed at disrupting organized crime networks tied to vehicle theft.
Despite the decline, IBC said auto theft costs remain significantly above historical levels. Over the past decade, theft-related insurance claims increased 38 per cent, while the value of claims rose 169 per cent. It is urging Ottawa to continue implementing recommendations from its National Action Plan on Combatting Auto Theft, including tougher vehicle immobilization standards and stronger oversight of vehicle exports.
According to the association, weak regulation of freight forwarders and export systems has made it easier for stolen vehicles to leave Canada through ports. Claims counts peaked at more than 43,000 nationally in 2023 before declining over the past two years.
“Auto theft is trending in the right direction after two years of concerted action, but the job is far from done,” said McGuinty.
