How to Prevent Car Theft in Winter: Protect Vehicle from Winter Crimes
Posted on January 31, 2025
As winter settles in, the familiar habit of warming up your car on cold mornings could be putting your vehicle at serious risk. Toronto police recently issued a warning about a spike in “warm-up thefts” across Scarborough, where thieves are targeting cars left running and unattended.
This troubling trend aligns with a 25% nationwide increase in car thefts reported by CARFAX Canada in 2024, making vehicle security a pressing concern, especially during the colder months.
Known as "puffing," leaving your car idling while you wait indoors might seem harmless, but the visible exhaust signals an easy opportunity for criminals.
Whether you're looking to protect your keyless car, classic car, or any vehicle, this post will equip you with practical tips on how to prevent car theft in winter, helping you stay one step ahead of seasonal cold-weather crimes.
Why Car Thefts Increase in Winter
Car theft tends to increase during the winter months for a few key reasons. The shift to longer nights is one of the biggest factors, as thieves can take advantage of the darkness to target cars.
With less daylight, vehicles parked in driveways or poorly lit areas become easy targets. Many reports show a rise in car theft once the clocks go back and darkness sets in earlier.
Here are 3 main reasons why car theft spikes in winter:
- Longer Nights: Less daylight gives thieves more cover to steal cars, especially if they’re parked in dimly lit or secluded spots.
- Cold Mornings: Many drivers leave their cars running to warm up or defrost, often without being nearby. This leaves their vehicle open for thieves to steal.
- Holiday Distractions: During the busy holiday season, people are often distracted with shopping or travel, making them less focused on securing their cars.
Top Tips to Prevent Car Thefts in Winter
Keeping your car secure during the colder months doesn’t have to be complicated. By following a few practical steps, you can reduce the risk of theft and enjoy peace of mind all winter long.
Here are some of the top tips to help keep your vehicle safe:
1. Don’t Leave Your Car Unattended
While it’s tempting to let your car warm up unattended on chilly mornings, this habit is one of the easiest ways for thieves to strike. Instead, stay inside your vehicle as it heats up, or invest in a remote start system. This way, your car can warm up safely while remaining locked and secure. If you have a remote start system, it’s also a good idea to remote start the vehicle and then store your key back in a Faraday pouch until you’re ready to go out to the car.
2. Choose Safe, Well-Lit Parking Spots
Always choose well-lit, populated areas to park your car, whether at home, work, or while running errands. Thieves are less likely to target vehicles in highly visible spots or near surveillance cameras. If you have a garage, use it whenever possible, as it adds an extra layer of security.
3. Always Lock Your Car and Double-Check
It sounds simple, but many thefts happen because vehicles are left unlocked. Make it a habit to lock your car every time you step away, even if it’s just for a moment. Double-check doors, windows, and the trunk to ensure everything is secure before leaving your car.
4. Keep Your Keys Secure and Out of Sight
Never leave your keys in or near your vehicle, especially not in the ignition or on the dashboard. At home, store them in a secure place, preferably away from doors and windows where thieves might attempt to grab them using special tools.
For extra protection, consider using a signal-blocking pouch for keyless entry fobs to prevent relay attacks.
5. Enhance Your Car’s Security with Technology
Modern security technologies can significantly reduce the risk of car theft. Install systems like GPS trackers and smartphone-enabled alarms to monitor your car’s location and get instant alerts for suspicious activity.
Remote locking and keyless entry systems are also great options to enhance your vehicle’s security.
6. Invest in Effective Anti-Theft Devices
Anti-theft devices like steering wheel locks, tire locks, or brake pedal locks serve as visible deterrents that make your car less appealing to thieves. Additionally, consider adding an audible alarm system to draw attention if anyone attempts to tamper with your vehicle.
7. Ensure Your Car Has an Immobilizer
An immobilizer is an electronic security device that prevents the engine from starting without the correct key. Most modern cars come equipped with this feature, but if yours doesn’t, installing an aftermarket immobilizer can be a worthwhile investment. This extra layer of security makes it nearly impossible for thieves to drive away with your car.
8. Consider Installing a Tracking System
A tracking system is one of the most effective tools for recovering a stolen vehicle. GPS-based systems can pinpoint your car’s location and alert authorities quickly.
Some systems also come with features like geofencing, which notifies you if your car moves beyond a set area. Installing a tracking device adds an extra layer of security and peace of mind.
9. Add a Dash Cam for Extra Protection
Dash cams are not just for recording road trips—they’re also a great deterrent against theft. Visible dash cams can make thieves think twice before targeting your vehicle. Some models even have motion detection and parking surveillance modes, capturing footage of any suspicious activity around your car.
10. Keep Your Car Keys Separate from House Keys
Keeping your car keys and house keys on separate rings is a simple but important step. If a thief gets hold of your car keys, they won’t automatically have access to your home as well. This small precaution adds an extra layer of protection for your family and property.
11. Use Car Alarms or Audible Security Systems
Car alarms are a simple yet effective deterrent against theft. Installing an alarm system or ensuring your current one is functional can make a big difference.
Thieves prefer quiet environments to avoid drawing attention, so a loud alarm can quickly scare them off. For added protection, consider audible anti-theft devices, such as steering wheel locks with built-in alarms.
12. Prioritize Personal Safety Over the Vehicle
While it’s natural to want to protect your car, remember that your safety is always more important. If confronted by a thief, avoid engaging or trying to stop them. Instead, report the incident to the authorities immediately.
Being alert and practicing situational awareness—especially in dark or secluded areas—can help you avoid risky encounters. No car is worth risking your well-being.
What to Do if Your Car is Stolen?
If your car is stolen, acting quickly and following the right steps can help improve the chances of recovery and make the process less stressful.
Here’s what to do:
1. Report the Theft to the Police Immediately
Contact your local police station or file a report online as soon as possible. Provide detailed information about your vehicle, including its make, model, color, license plate number, and any unique identifiers.
If any accessories were stolen, be ready to describe them as well. After notifying the police, inform your insurance company to file an incident report and begin the claims process.
2. Keep a Detailed Record
Having specific details about your car on hand can speed up the investigation.
Ensure you have the following information ready:
- Year, make, and model of the car
- Vehicle color(s)
- License plate number
- Insurance policy or certificate number
- Vehicle identification number (VIN)
- Serial numbers of custom or special equipment
- Description of unique features (e.g., dents, scratches, or modifications)
- Theft location and contact details of any witnesses
To prepare for such incidents, review your auto insurance policy with your agent or broker. Confirm your coverage to ensure you’re protected, providing peace of mind in case of theft or other unexpected events.
Stay Vigilant This Winter - Keep Your Car Safe and Secure
Winter not only brings frigid temperatures but also heightened risks for vehicle theft. However, by taking proactive measures, you can protect your vehicle and spare yourself the stress and costs of theft.
At CarHub North York Chrysler, we’re more than just a dealership – we’re your partner in keeping your car safe and secure. We offer a range of vehicles equipped with the latest anti-theft technology, as well as expert advice on how to protect your car from theft, whether it’s keyless, classic, or otherwise. Plus, our team can guide you toward additional security solutions tailored to your needs.
For more tips on how to prevent car theft in winter and year-round, visit the CarHub North York Chrysler blog. Stay safe, stay secure, and let us help you enjoy peace of mind all winter long.