Auto theft claims costs in Ontario declined in 2025 but continue to significantly exceed pre-pandemic levels, according to new figures released by the Insurance Bureau of Canada.
The industry group said auto theft claims in Ontario totalled $485 million in 2025, down from $723 million in 2024. However, claims remain sharply elevated compared with 2017 levels, with theft-related claims up 97 per cent and losses rising 330 per cent over that period.
Toronto remained Ontario’s costliest city for auto theft claims at more than $114.5 million, followed by Brampton at $43.2 million and Mississauga at $31.6 million. Ottawa moved into fourth place, while Hamilton climbed four spots to fifth.
The Insurance Bureau of Canada said several smaller communities also recorded steep increases in theft costs since 2017. Bowmanville/Clarington saw the largest jump, with claims costs increasing 1,261 per cent to nearly $2.75 million. Richmond Hill, Barrie, Whitby and Oakville also posted major increases.
“While IBC applauds the efforts of provincial and municipal governments, law enforcement and insurers in helping to curb the auto theft crisis, there is still more work to be done by all stakeholders,” said Amanda Dean, VP, Ontario and Atlantic, IBC, in a statement.
The organization said stronger federal action remains necessary, including tougher vehicle theft protection standards and tighter oversight of Canada’s vehicle export system to prevent stolen vehicles from leaving the country.
IBC said Ontario’s largest urban centres continue to record the highest claims costs, but theft activity has increasingly spread into smaller and mid-sized communities across the province.
