File photo courtesy of © Can Stock Photo / NomadSoul1File photo courtesy of © Can Stock Photo / NomadSoul1
London

Ford trucks top target of thieves

When it comes to stealing vehicles, thieves seem to favour Ford pickup trucks.

The Ford F-350 took seven of the top ten spots on the Insurance Bureau of Canada's 2019 list of the most frequently stolen vehicle in Canada. The main reason for this is the heavy-duty truck's lack of an ignition immobilizer, which prevents thieves from hot-wiring a vehicle.

According to the Insurance Bureau, thieves are also using technology to bypass security systems and electronically gain access to vehicles.

"Electronic auto theft is on the rise across the country as more vehicles are equipped with technology like keyless entry fobs," said Bryan Gast, the bureau's national director of investigative services. "Regardless of how a vehicle is stolen, auto theft is a serious threat to public safety and continues to cost all Canadians."

The top ten stolen vehicles in Canada for 2019 are as follows:

1. Ford 350SD AWD 2007 2. Ford 350SD AWD 2006 3. Ford 350SD AWD 2005 4. Ford 350SD AWD 2004 5. Ford 250SD AWD 2006 6. Ford 350SD AWD 2003 7. Lexus RX350/RX350L/RX450h/RX450hL 4DR AWD 2018 8. Ford F250 SD 4WD 2005 9. Ford F350 SD 4AWD 2002 10. Honda Civic Si 2DR Coupe 1998

The Insurance Bureau estimates auto theft costs Canadians nearly $1 billion every year, including $542 million to repair or replace stolen vehicles and $250 million to cover police, health care, and court costs associated with the crime.

The vehicles are snatched for a variety of reasons, such as for joyrides, to commit other crimes, to be shipped abroad or stripped down for parts.

To help protect against vehicle theft, the Insurance Bureau recommends owners don't leave key fobs inside their vehicle or by the front entrance of their home, where wireless transmitters can intercept signals. Owners can also install an immobilizing device or tracking device.

A vehicle should also be parked in well-lit areas with the doors locked and windows up.

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