I was checking insurance options in Canada before buying a car, and I’m glad I did. One of the insurance providers, CAA, mentioned a $500 surcharge for certain vehicles considered high-theft risks. This applies to models like Acura RDX, Dodge Ram 1500, Honda CR-V, Jeep Grand Cherokee, and others made after 2019. The surcharge gets waived if you install an anti-theft device, but CRVs still have high premiums because they’re among the most stolen vehicles in Canada.
CAA explained anti-theft devices as those integrated into the vehicle’s wiring and engine management, stopping the car from starting unless the key is recognized. They don’t count factory-installed systems, though.
When I spoke to a broker, he confirmed that even with anti-theft devices, CRVs have higher insurance costs because they’re a top target for theft. After running some quotes, I noticed CRVs are among the most expensive vehicles to insure.
What do you all think? Have you faced similar issues?
I can’t speak for Canada, but in New Hampshire, CRVs have been cheap to insure. Repairs are affordable, and parts are easy to find. They’re definitely not a top stolen vehicle here.
Vail said:
I can’t speak for Canada, but in New Hampshire, CRVs have been cheap to insure. Repairs are affordable, and parts are easy to find. They’re definitely not a top stolen vehicle here.
Yeah, in the US, Hyundai and Kia have more issues with theft.
Valor said: @Terry
And they also have fire risks. You can’t even keep them inside because of the fire hazard. Plus, they’re more likely to get stolen.
Kia is having a rough time right now. I have a 2016 Sportage that’s been great, but with all the theft and recall issues, I can’t see myself buying another Kia anytime soon.
@Caden
I just traded in my 2016 Kia Sorento for a 2023 CRV. The anti-theft fix was done, and I had my engine replaced last year. I started with Hondas, and after all the issues with my Kia, I decided to go back. The latest news about engine fires makes me even more relieved I switched.
Omar said:
Why would anyone buy a CRV when there are so many other options out there?
Finding good used cars in Ontario has been nearly impossible these past two years. Even the sales manager at the Honda dealership said a used Civic often costs almost as much as a new one because the market is crazy right now.
@Hollis
That’s so true. With fewer new vehicles being produced, people are forced to buy used, and dealers know this. Prices for used cars are now close to new ones. Covid and some brands like Toyota slowing production to increase demand have made this worse.
I have a 2020 CRV, and my insurance went from $85 to $129 per month with CAA. If I hadn’t shown proof of a steering wheel lock, the $500 surcharge would have applied, raising it to $175 monthly. I’m now looking at new CRVs and HRVs because my lease is up soon, but my agent says the surcharge will increase to $1500 after June 1.
In New York, Hondas often have their rims stolen, but CRVs are still some of the cheapest cars to insure. That might be because I’ve owned sportier cars like Audis and BMWs, which were way more expensive to insure.