The Best Defence Against Auto Theft
The Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) estimates
the direct dollar loss due to auto theft in Canada to be approximately
$1 billion annually. What’s more, motor vehicle theft is a significant
threat to public safety.
Several models dominate the list of the most-stolen
vehicles in the country. The 1999 and 2000 Honda Civic SiR two-door
models top the list and had the highest theft claim cost per vehicle.
The statistics are based wholly on actual insurance
claims collected from nearly all automobile insurance companies in Canada.
Thieves have been turning to older vehicles
now that newer vehicles are installed with deterrent systems or immobilizers.
It should be noted that none of the vehicles making the top 10 had a
bureau-approved immobilizer system.
According to the IBC's list, the top 10 stolen
vehicles are:
- 2000 Honda Civic SiR two-door.
- 1999 Honda Civic SiR two-door.
- 1996 Chevrolet/GMC Blazer/Jimmy S Series
two-door, four-wheel-drive.
- 1994 Honda Civic Si hatchback two-door.
- 1993 Volkswagen Corrado two-door.
- 1995 Honda Civic Si hatchback two-door.
- 1992 Chrysler Voyager and Dodge Caravan.
- 2002 Subaru Impreza WRX four-door, all-wheel-drive.
- 1999 Volkswagen Golf GTI hatchback two-door.
- 1993 Honda Civic Si hatchback two-door.
Even if your car is high on the “Most Stolen” list –
you can help to protect it!
Use Common Sense
Don’t make your vehicle an easy target
for thieves.
- Remove the keys from the ignition –
even if you’ve stopped for only a short period of time
- Lock doors and close windows
- Park in a well-lit area
Warning Devices
Visible or audible devices which alert thieves
that your vehicle is protected.
- Audible alarms
- Interior warning light
- Steering wheel, brake or wheel locks
- Theft deterrent decals
- Tire deflators
- Window etching or laminated glass
Immobilizing Devices
These devices prevent thieves from bypassing
your ignition and hot-wiring your vehicle.
Some electronic devices have computer chips hidden in the ignition keys.
The immobolizer will inhibit the flow of fuel or electricity to the
engine until a hidden control is activated.
Tracking Devices
A tracking device emits a signal from the vehicle.
It tracks and monitors the vehicles exact location.
Call The Personal for a quote on your
home and auto insurance at 1 888 476-8737 or visit them online at www.thepersonal.com/mycreditunion
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