Auto Theft Plummets 25.9% in Ontario: Urgent Measures Driving Change

UPDATE: Auto theft rates have significantly dropped across Canada, with Ontario experiencing a staggering 25.9% decline in stolen vehicles in the first half of 2025. The Équité Association reports that 9,600 private passenger vehicles were stolen in Ontario, down from 12,949 in the same period last year. This dramatic reduction comes amid urgent government efforts to combat vehicle theft.

The national auto theft rate has also seen a noteworthy decline of 19.1% as authorities ramp up initiatives to tackle this growing issue. This marks a continuation of a downward trend that began after theft rates surged in 2023. Bryan Gast, vice-president of investigative services at Équité, attributes this success to collaborative efforts between the Ontario Provincial Police, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, and specialized auto theft prosecutors.

Officials emphasize that increased resources for the Canada Border Services Agency are critical in intercepting stolen vehicles intended for export. “It’s that collaboration, co-operation, and everybody working together. I think we’re starting to see the trend going in the right direction,” said Gast.

In a joint statement following a recent meeting in Oakville, federal and provincial politicians underscored the necessity for a stronger Criminal Code and stricter penalties for auto theft. Although Halton Region recorded a 20.9% drop in auto thefts last year, reinforcing its status as Canada’s safest regional municipality, officials acknowledge that challenges remain.

Project Ghost investigators reported the dismantling of an organized crime ring linked to numerous home invasions and high-end vehicle thefts in the Greater Toronto Area. Authorities revealed that 608 motor vehicle thefts were reported in Durham, where theft rates have also decreased by 18% in 2025. However, officials caution that auto theft remains a lucrative venture for organized crime groups.

Gast noted that criminals continue to view auto theft as a high-reward, low-risk activity. “If they get caught with a $100,000 vehicle versus $100,000 worth of drugs, there’s less of a probability that they’re going to have significant consequences with the vehicle,” he explained.

Despite the promising statistics, the report reveals that approximately 44% of stolen vehicles in Canada are not recovered, indicating they may have been exported, re-vinned, or dismantled for parts. Criminals often employ tactics like creating false vehicle identification numbers (VINs) to disguise stolen vehicles.

In response to these challenges, Carfax has introduced a new system that alerts vehicle dealers to any fraudulent VIN data or stolen reports. Gast advises potential buyers to be vigilant: “Know your seller and be cautious. Check the vehicle and ensure it’s not being offered for sale elsewhere. Run a report and get a used vehicle information package.”

To further combat vehicle theft, provincial governments across Canada are collaborating on a national VIN registry, which aims to create additional barriers for criminals attempting to register stolen vehicles. Gast suggests a layered approach to vehicle security, emphasizing that adding multiple anti-theft measures can deter thieves.

Authorities continue to urge the public to remain vigilant and proactive in protecting their vehicles as they work to sustain this positive trend in auto theft reduction. As ongoing efforts unfold, the collaboration between law enforcement and government agencies remains crucial in the fight against vehicle crime.