Auto-Theft > Immobilizers
Over the last two decades, Manitoba has struggled to reverse a rapid rise in auto theft. Part of the problem is that thieves have learned how to steal certain vehicles. We call the makes and models with the highest record of repeated theft Most-at-Risk vehicles.
Over the past two years we have been able to reverse the rising theft rate by protecting Most-at-Risk vehicles with approved immobilizers.
What’s the difference between approved immobilizers and others?
Many newer vehicles are equipped with immobilizers at the factory. Several kinds of after-market immobilizers are also available.
But not all immobilizers meet the high standards of Manitoba’s immobilizer program.
Approved immobilizers meet the requirements of the National Standard of Canada (ULCS338/98).
Immobilizers of this standard meet a number of requirements for immobilizer technology. Transponder-based technology is key.
The transponder is a radio frequency chip located in the key or key fob. When the chip is near the ignition, it sends a signal that deactivates the immobilizer, allowing the vehicle to start. The vehicle will not start without that signal. That means that when you walk away from your vehicle with the key or key fob, the immobilizer is armed and your vehicle cannot be started.
By contrast, some non-approved immobilizers house the de-activation system in the steering wheel column. In addition, many non-approved immobilizers only disable two systems in a vehicle, while approved immobilizers must disable three.
Thieves have become skilled at defeating these less effective systems. As a result, thefts of these vehicles are on the rise.
When installed according to Manitoba’s high standards, approved immobilizers have not been defeated by auto thieves.
Approved immobilizers are required by provincial law in Most-at–Risk vehicles that:
- are used in Winnipeg or to commute there;
- have been stolen or that someone has attempted to steal; or
- are being imported into Manitoba from another jurisdiction.
If the vehicle is used in Winnipeg or to commute there
If you own a Most-at-Risk vehicle and you live in Winnipeg or commute there, it must be equipped with an approved immobilizer for you to renew your registration and on-road coverage. Check here to see whether this requirement applies to your vehicle.
If the vehicle has been stolen or someone has attempted to steal it
You must have an approved immobilizer installed as part of your claim to keep your vehicle registered. This applies anywhere in Manitoba. With your permission, we’ll arrange installation along with the other repairs needed from your theft claim. After the installation, you’ll receive a VSIB Immobilizer Installation Registration Form. Keep this form. You must provide it as proof that you’ve equipped your vehicle with an approved immobilizer. You must have an immobilizer installed by a specified date, or your registration will be suspended. If you don’t want to keep your vehicle registered, please turn in your registration and licence plates immediately at any Autopac agent.
If you are importing the vehicle
Most-at-Risk vehicles being imported into Manitoba must be equipped with approved immobilizers before they can be registered here. This applies whether you’re a dealer or a private buyer. To register a Most-at-Risk vehicle you’ve imported, you’ll need a valid passed Certificate of Inspection (COI). If the COI is not from Manitoba, you’ll also need proof that you’ve installed an approved immobilizer. Check here to see whether this requirement applies to a vehicle you want to import.
If you’re a dealer
You can sell an imported Most-at-Risk vehicle with or without an immobilizer installed. But if you’re selling it without an immobilizer, you must include a failed COI with the vehicle and tell the buyer:
- it is on the Government of Manitoba Approved Theft Deterrent Immobilizer Regulation list and is required to be equipped with an approved immobilizer; and
- it doesn’t have an approved immobilizer.
When the customer registers the vehicle he or she will have a 90 day grace period to have the immobilizer installed.
The law applies to Most-at-Risk vehicles listed in Schedule A of the amendment to the Approved Theft Deterrent Immobilizer Regulation.
Approved aftermarket immobilizers must meet the Canadian Standard for Automobile Theft Deterrent Equipment and Systems - ULC S338.
The Most-at-Risk vehicle list has been expanded, effective October 1, 2008. A complete list of newly-affected vehicles is available here, or you can find out whether your vehicle needs an immobilizer by entering your vehicle information. For more information see the government news release.
If you have an existing policy on a Most-at-Risk vehicle, you will be notified by Manitoba Public Insurance if an immobilizer is now required in your vehicle. You can also check here to see whether your vehicle is affected.
Under new Transport Canada regulations, immobilizers are now required as standard equipment in all new vehicles manufactured for sale in Canada after September 1, 2007.
