Auto theft declined across Canada during the first half of 2026, extending a downward trend as governments, insurers and law enforcement continue efforts to combat vehicle crime.
Équité Association’s First Half of 2026 Auto Theft Trend Report found 20,759 private passenger vehicles were stolen nationally, down 10.1 per cent from 23,093 during the same period in 2025.
Western Canada recorded the largest regional improvement, with thefts falling 14.3 per cent to 7,449 vehicles. Alberta posted a 15.1 per cent decline, with 3,744 vehicles stolen.
Ontario recorded 8,796 thefts, down 8.4 per cent, while Quebec saw thefts decline 6.4 per cent to 3,641 vehicles. Atlantic Canada posted a 4.1 per cent decrease to 873.
“The decrease in auto theft showcases the successful collaboration of the insurance industry with law enforcement and all levels of government. However, long-term progress hinges on modernizing Transport Canada’s Motor Vehicle Safety Regulations,” says Bryan Gast, National Vice President, Intelligence and Investigations at Équité Association, which said it has advocated for the “modernization of anti-theft requirements to Transport Canada’s Motor Vehicle Safety Regulations.”
Équité also pointed to its 2026 Canadian Auto Theft Impact Survey, which found nearly 75 per cent of Canadians support mandatory anti-theft technology built into vehicles. The survey found 82 per cent of thefts occurred at or next to victims’ homes.
Équité’s push for updated federal requirements could also have implications for the security technology manufacturers incorporate into future vehicles sold in Canada.
