In Canada, the Honda CRV and Dodge Ram were the most frequently stolen vehicles in 2024.
But in 2024, the Toyota Highlander topped the list of Canada’s most stolen vehicles!
The number and variety of cars on the list of the top ten stolen vehicles in Canada, as released by the Equité Association, is unbelievable!
If you are curious about the most stolen cars of Canada in 2023 and 2024, why they were stolen, how to prevent your car from being stolen in 2025, and other helpful techniques, this article is for you!
First, let’s have a look at the list of the top ten cars stolen from Canada in 2023 and 2024.
Top ten stolen vehicles from Canada in 2023 vs 2024:
Top most stolen vehicles in 2024:
Comparison of vehicle theft in 2023 vs 2024:
In 2024, thefts of the Toyota Highlander surged dramatically, with 3,414 vehicles reported stolen compared to 1,759 in 2023.
Meanwhile, the Honda CR-V saw a significant drop in thefts, falling from 5,620 in 2023 to 2,988 in 2024.
The Dodge Ram consistently ranked as the second most stolen vehicle across both years, with thefts rising from 2,600 in 2023 to 3,078 in 2024. These trends highlight shifting theft patterns and the importance of proactive vehicle security measures.
We cannot help but wonder how the thieves were able to take so many cars when we look at the above table!
Many details are revealed if we decipher the table, including:
Why do thieves prefer SUVs and trucks over other car models both in 2023 and 2024?
Mainly because they are very popular among Canadian drivers. You see quite a lot of them on the streets and their parts are in high demand across Canada.
On the streets of the downtown area, one can witness a great deal of SUVs, including Nissan Rogue, Ford Escape, Honda CR-V, and Toyota RAV4. They are in high demand; in 2022, 55% of all vehicles sold in Canada were SUVs.
In Ontario, trucks are widely used for construction, other commercial activities, and the transportation of goods. One of the best-selling and most stolen trucks in Alberta and Ontario is the Ford F-series.
What are the top brands of cars stolen in 2023 and 2024?
Upon examining the top brands, Honda, Dodge Ram, and Ford emerged as the most stolen vehicles across Canada in 2023. Particularly their 2020 models, which were not electric cars.
These brands are likely prime targets for car thieves due to the ease with which their relay switch can be disabled.
The Toyota Highlander’s high resale value and strong demand make it one of the most stolen vehicles in 2024.
According to an incredible report by Car Edge, the Toyota Highlander retains its value exceptionally well, depreciating by only 35% over 5 years, with a 5-year resale value of approximately $31,018.
After 1 year, the Highlander retains 84% of its original price, dropping to 44.8% after 10 years.
Buying a used 2-year-old Highlander can save up to $10,140 compared to buying new. The 2023 model is the top pick for value, with only 16% depreciation, while earlier models (2021, 2022) also offer good value.
Why was Honda the most stolen car in 2023?
In 2023, Hondas were among the most commonly stolen cars in Canada. This is likely due to the high demand for Honda parts, which leads to theft and subsequent sale of the parts at premium prices.
The fact that Honda models’ catalytic converters are more accessible to thieves than those of many other vehicles is another significant factor in Honda theft.
Let’s have a quick look at why were so many cars stolen:
Why were so many cars stolen in Canada in 2023 and 2024?
Organized criminal activities:
Reports from criminal intelligence services highlight a significant rise in organized gangs engaging in criminal auto theft. Additionally, areas with higher crime rates might have an increased demand for stolen vehicles or their components in illicit markets.
To sell auto parts separately:
Stolen cars are either shipped abroad for resale or dismantled into individual parts for separate sales. This poses a significant challenge, especially in fighting the illicit trade of auto parts such as catalytic converters.
| Car Part | Reason for Theft | Estimated Price (Canada) |
|---|---|---|
| Catalytic Converters | Contain valuable metals like rhodium, palladium, platinum | $1,000 – $3,000+ |
| Car Rims & Tires | High resale value, easy to remove | $1,000 – $5,000+ (depending on quality) |
| Airbags | Expensive and portable | $500 – $1,000+ |
| GPS & Stereo Systems | Valuable, especially in older vehicles | $200 – $1,500+ |
| Batteries | High cost and ease of removal | $100 – $300 |
| License Plates | Used on unregistered vehicles | $20 – $100 |
| Third Row Seats | Easy to remove, valuable | $500 – $2,000+ |
| Tailgates | Easily removed on certain truck models | $200 – $800 |
| Garage Door Openers | Provides easy home access | $20 – $100 |
The above table gives you a rough idea of the prices of all the parts that can be sold separately! But the twist here is when the thieves resell a Toyota Highlander.
The Toyota Highlander holds strong resale value in Canada, typically ranging from $25,000 to $45,000, depending on factors like model year, trim, condition, and mileage.
Why is the resale value so high?
- Reliability: Known for durability and longevity, making it a top choice for used car buyers.
- Low Maintenance: Toyota vehicles generally have lower maintenance costs, appealing to budget-conscious buyers.
- High Demand: The Highlander’s practicality and fuel efficiency, especially the hybrid model, keep it in demand.
- Brand Reputation: Toyota’s track record of vehicles retaining value boosts resale prices.
To use stolen vehicles for other crimes:
Stolen vehicles often serve as tools for additional criminal activities, such as break-ins and robberies. Their versatility in aiding other crimes makes them appealing targets for thieves because, even if they are caught, they can simply leave the car and escape with the looted items.
The Dodge Ram, known for its off-road capabilities, can be used in pursuits or to evade law enforcement in rugged terrain or areas where a more standard vehicle would not be effective.
Larger vehicles like the Dodge Ram and Lexus RX offer significant performance advantages, such as powerful engines and high speed, which can make it easier to outrun police.
For resale in other countries:
Some individuals involved in organized crime networks engage in smuggling stolen vehicles overseas, capitalizing on their high resale value in countries where these models are not readily available for purchase.
Loading SUVs and trucks for overseas shipping is a straightforward and efficient process. This international aspect adds another layer of complexity to the issue of car theft.
Security features and lack of latest technology:
Some older Kia and Hyundai models are easy targets for theft because they lack modern security features like immobilizer and alarm systems. This makes it simpler for thieves to bypass safeguards.
On top of that, viral challenges like “Kia Boys” have spotlighted these vulnerabilities, encouraging more thefts. If you own one of these models, adding an aftermarket security system or tracking device is a smart way to protect your vehicle.
Major cities facing vehicle theft in Canada 2023:
Most stolen vehicles in Alberta in 2023:
While auto theft is a national epidemic in Canada, a report by Équité association shows pick up vans and SUVs as the hot targets in Alberta.
Alberta reveals a unique trend in vehicle thefts, emphasizing a preference for stolen trucks. Older models like the Ford F-350 from 1997 to 2007 are particularly sought after, with their prevalence in farming communities contributing to this distinctive trend. The higher resale value of auto parts further fuels the allure of these older truck models.
Most stolen vehicles in Ontario in 2023:
The list reveals that SUVs and trucks were the most stolen vehicles in Ontario in 2023. These thefts are far from random—organized crime groups often target specific vehicles, particularly newer and larger models.
The Honda CR-V stands out as a prime target, likely due to its popularity on the road, global ease of servicing, and high demand for its readily available parts.
The most stolen cars in Quebec in 2023:
The report revealed that 2,688 Honda CR-Vs were stolen in Quebec. In 2023, SUVs, trucks, and sedans dominated the top 10 list of most stolen vehicles in the province.
What techniques are thieves using to steal vehicles?
Car theft is incredibly quick and simple; a Globe and Mail report shows that one car is stolen in Canada every six minutes!
The methods employed by thieves are diverse, happening in daylight from condo garages and parking lots.
A report by CTV News Toronto shows more than 130 Dodge Rams were stolen in York region alone in one night in 2023. They have become easy targets, whether they are parked in lonely driveways or in busy areas such as airports.
Thieves employ various techniques, including relay attacks and reprogramming thefts,making it imperative for car owners to take precautions such as using Faraday pouches or metal boxes to protect key fobs.
Regardless of their perceived value, all vehicles in the era of push-button keyless entry are vulnerable to theft, so everyone must take the following security measures.
What to do if your vehicle is stolen:
If your vehicle is stolen, refrain from attempting to recover it personally. Avoid pursuing the thief yourself, especially considering the potential risk of them being armed.
Always prioritize your safety by promptly contacting the police. Additionally, if your vehicle is equipped with tracking devices, promptly inform the tracking company after notifying the authorities.
Government initiatives to combat vehicle theft in 2024:
In November 2024, the Government of Canada, led by the Honourable Dominic LeBlanc, took significant steps to combat organized auto theft by partnering with INTERPOL through Project Drive Out.
This initiative allocates up to $3.5 million over three years to enhance global data sharing and analysis, targeting transnational vehicle crime.
Key measures include:
- Increasing the Canada Border Services Agency’s capacity, which intercepted over 2,100 stolen vehicles in railyards and ports in 2024.
- Strengthening INTERPOL’s Stolen Motor Vehicle Database, searched 356 million times globally in 2024, helping identify and recover stolen vehicles.
- Supporting law enforcement with $15 million in funding under the Contribution Program to Combat Serious and Organized Crime.
- $28 million has been allocated to the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) to target stolen vehicles at export points.
These efforts have already led to a 19% decrease in auto theft claims, highlighting the impact of robust collaboration between domestic and international partners.
But what can you do to prevent your vehicle from being stolen?
How to protect your vehicle from getting stolen in 2025!
Brian Gast, Vice President at the Équité Association and former police officer, recommends parking indoors, using CCTV security cameras, and employing vehicle tracking devices.
In 2025, we recommend adopting a multi-layered security approach to protect not just your vehicle but also your auto dealership, condominium, commercial building, shopping center, and even parking lots.
We provide proven vehicle theft prevention tips and strategies to help you stay ahead of potential threats:
Here are some of the solutions to prevent theft of vehicles in 2025:
Install a hidden manual kill switch:
A hidden manual kill switch is an effective anti-theft device designed to enhance the security of a vehicle. You can easily hide it by concealing it in the vehicle’s interior. You can manually activate or deactivate it .
When engaged, the kill switch interrupts the connection in the ignition system, making it nearly impossible for unauthorized individuals to start the vehicle, even if they have the keys.
Steering wheel lock:
The steering wheel lock is another physical anti-theft device that manually locks the steering wheel.
However, determined thieves might circumvent it by severing the steering wheel using tools such as bolt cutters or a hacksaw.
Electronic vehicle immobilizer:
Electronic vehicle immobilizers are factory-installed security features that prevent the engine from starting without the correct key or key fob.
These immobilizers are handy in deterring hotwiring attempts, adding an extra layer of protection.
Hidden tracker:
Hidden trackers are security features that aren’t factory-installed, but you can place them in different locations within the vehicle.
These devices allow owners to track the location of their vehicle in the event of theft.
Fuel relay fuse:
The fuel relay fuse is a simple yet effective method of preventing the vehicle from starting. By removing the fuel relay fuse from the fuse box, the fuel supply to the engine is cut off. This action renders the vehicle immobile.
Beware of potential vulnerabilities:
It’s essential to be aware of potential vulnerabilities in anti-theft devices, as highlighted by the steering wheel lock example.
Manufacturers may emphasize the toughness of their products, but weaknesses in the components they lock onto can be exploited.
As technology advances, vehicle owners need to stay informed about the latest security features and potential vulnerabilities.
Ignition kill switches:
Ignition kill switches, often mounted under the dashboard, require the driver to activate a small button during the vehicle start-up process.
You may regularly change the position of the switch to enhance their effectiveness. This hidden mechanism adds an extra layer of security. It makes it challenging for thieves to start the vehicle without knowledge of the switch’s location.
Remote video monitoring:
Remote video monitoring uses strategically placed surveillance cameras to monitor and record activities. These cameras are essential for monitoring and recording activities, providing a crucial layer of security for construction site security, multi-family residential security, and shopping center security.
The cameras, equipped with AI capabilities such as license plate recognition and intrusion detection, can swiftly detect security breaches and trigger an alarm.
As soon as the alarm is triggered at the remote security monitoring center, the remote operator accesses the live video feeds. They then intervene via audio talk-downs and deter the criminals.
Conclusion:
The increased use of high-tech methods in vehicle thefts makes it crucial to safeguard your vehicle with multiple layers of security.
In 2024, the most stolen vehicles in Canada highlight the importance of enhancing security measures to effectively protect against modern theft techniques.
Remote video surveillance takes security to the next level by using cameras with built-in AI technology. These smart systems don’t just record—they actively detect suspicious activity in real-time and enable immediate responses to security breaches. It’s a proactive way to stay one step ahead of potential threats, ensuring quicker action and enhanced safety.
Contact us today to explore tailored security solutions for your vehicles across various industries in Canada.
