MPI FORCES IMMOBILIZERS INTO PREVIOUSLY STOLEN CARS

Starting this fall, immobilizers will be mandatory on high-risk stolen vehicles, Manitoba Public Insurance announced Thursday.

The change will apply to about 150 models of vehicles that are most often the targets of thieves.

If a vehicle is stolen and recovered, the owner will have 30 days to install an immobilizer. 

If the installation isn't completed within that time, a Certificate of Inspection will be issued requiring the equipment.

MPI will foot the bill for the installation.  The Crown insurance company announced last month that it would pay for the installation of immobilizers in the 150 most "at-risk" vehicles.

APRIL 6, 2006: Insurer offers free immobilizers to owners of most-stolen cars

Top 10 stolen cars

1. Dodge Caravan, 1990-94

2. Plymouth Voyager, 1990-94

3. Chrysler Intrepid, 1990-94

4. Jeep Grand Cherokee, 1990-94

5. Plymouth Acclaim, 1990-94

6. Chrysler Intrepid, 1995-99

7. Dodge Spirit, 1990-94

8. Chrysler Dynasty, 1990-94

9. Pontiac Firebird, 1985-89

10. Dodge Power Ram 1500, 1995-99

Source: MPI. See the full list of 150 most at-risk cars.

Any used vehicles imported into the province will also be required to have an immobilizer before they can be registered in Manitoba.

The changes go into effect Sept. 1.

While they make up 10 per cent of the total number of vehicles in the province, those on the "at risk" list account for 62 per cent of the theft claims, officials say.

Last year, the insurer announced an incentive program that offered a $140 discount, interest-free financing and annual insurance discounts to motorists who installed immobilizers.

About 12,000 motorists took advantage of that program, but only one-fifth of the participants were the owners of the vehicles most likely to be stolen.

All vehicle owners are still eligible for the discounts and financing.

MPI says repeat thefts of vehicles caused injury to 42 Manitobans and more than $6 million in damage in 2005.

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