Auto theft in Canada has taken a surprising turn this year. After years of rising crime, 2024 finally saw a nationwide drop of 18.6% in vehicle thefts.1 But don’t breathe a sigh of relief just yet—car theft is still a billion-dollar problem, with 18 thefts per hour. 2
From high-end SUVs to pickup trucks, some vehicles are more at risk than others. Whether you drive one of these top targets or not, knowing how to protect your car is key. Here’s a closer look at Canada’s most stolen vehicles in 2024, why thieves love them, and how you can outsmart criminals.
The 10 Most Stolen Vehicles in Canada (2024)
These vehicles were the hottest targets for thieves this year3:
| RANK | CAR MAKE & MODEL | NUMBER OF STOLEN VEHICLES |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | TOYOTA HIGHLANDER | 3,414 |
| 2 | DODGE RAM 1500 SERIES | 3,078 |
| 3 | LEXUS RX SERIES | 3,037 |
| 4 | HONDA CR-V | 2,988 |
| 5 | TOYOTA RAV4 | 2,690 |
| 6 | HONDA CIVIC | 1,654 |
| 7 | JEEP WRANGLER | 1,641 |
| 8 | LAND ROVER RANGE ROVER SERIES | 1,533 |
| 9 | CHEVROLET/GMC SUBURBAN/YUKON/TAHOE | 1,488 |
| 10 | CHEVROLET/GMC SILVERADO/SIERRA 1500 SERIES | 1,383 |
Which Cars Have the Highest Theft Rate?
Looking at sheer numbers is useful, but theft rates3—which compare thefts to total registered vehicles—paint a clearer picture of risk.
| RANK | CAR MAKE & MODEL | NUMBER OF STOLEN VEHICLES |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | LAND ROVER RANGE ROVER | 4.43% |
| 2 | LEXUS RX SERIES | 3.15% |
| 3 | TOYOTA HIGHLANDER | 2.76% |
| 4 | CHEVROLET/GMC SUBURBAN/YUKON/TAHOE | 2.37% |
| 5 | JEEP WRANGLER | 1.16% |
| 6 | HONDA CR-V | 0.61% |
| 7 | TOYOTA RAV4 | 0.53% |
| 8 | DODGE RAM 1500 SERIES | 0.59% |
| 9 | HONDA CIVIC | 0.24% |
| 10 | CHEVROLET/GMC SILVERADO/SIERRA 1500 SERIES | 0.23% |
Why Are These Vehicles Being Stolen?
Auto theft isn’t just about opportunity—it’s a multi-billion-dollar industry. Here’s why certain cars are stolen more than others:
- It’s no surprise that high-end SUVs and pickups dominate this list. These vehicles are not just stolen for joyrides—many are shipped overseas and resold for massive profits.
- Compact SUVs like the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V remain at risk due to their popularity and ease of theft.
- Keyless Entry Vulnerability – Many modern cars are stolen via relay attacks, where thieves amplify your key fob’s signal to unlock and start your car.
- Chop Shops & Parts Market – Older models, like the 2006 Silverado, are stolen for parts, as their components are valuable and easier to resell.
As auto theft rates continue to increase and ultimately affect everyone’s insurance premium, our partners at The Personal compiled a list of tips to prevent your car from being stolen.
How to Protect Your Vehicle from Theft
Don’t let your car become another statistic! Follow these expert tips to reduce your risk of auto theft:
LOCK UP & ROLL UP
It sounds basic, but nearly 50% of stolen cars were left unlocked. Always lock your doors and close windows—even when parked at home.
NEVER LEAVE YOUR CAR RUNNING
A moment of convenience can lead to instant regret. Leaving your vehicle running unattended makes you an easy target.
UPGRADE YOUR SECURITY
Standard car alarms are not enough. Invest in:
- Steering wheel locks – A simple, highly effective deterrent.
- Faraday pouches for key fobs – A Faraday bag, pouch or box is essentially a small container that you store your car keys in which block electromagnetic fields, such as those emitted by keyless entry systems and prevents thieves from hijacking the signal.
- Wheel locks – Prevents thieves from stealing your rims and tires.
- Bollards – Some car owners have taken the extreme measure of installing hydraulic retractable driveway bollards on their property.
PARK SMART
Whenever possible, park in:
- A garage rather than a driveway.
- A well-lit, high-traffic area if parking outside.
- A secured lot with surveillance cameras.
INSTALL HOME SECURITY CAMERAS
If you park in your driveway, security cameras deter thieves and help recover stolen cars. Motion-activated floodlights are an extra bonus.
STORE KEYS AWAY FROM DOOR & WINDOWS
Thieves can hijack your key fob signal from inside your house! Keep your keys far from entry points or store them in a Faraday bag.
DON'T STORE VALUABLES IN YOUR CAR
To prevent car theft and break-ins, avoid leaving valuables visible or unsecured in your car, and instead, keep them with you or store them securely in the trunk or a safe location. Don't leave anything in plain sight: Even seemingly small items can attract thieves. If you must leave items, store them out of view in the trunk.
CHECK YOUR INSURANCE COVERAGE
Make sure your auto insurance covers theft and replacement costs.
Car Parts Are Being Stolen Too!
While entire vehicles are a target, so are expensive parts, especially catalytic converters. These emissions-control devices contain platinum, palladium, and rhodium, making them a gold mine for thieves.
📉 Good news: Catalytic converter thefts have dropped significantly since 2022, thanks to:
- Tougher laws requiring scrap yards to track sellers;
- Police initiatives like VIN etching programs; and
- A significant drop in the price of precious metals like rhodium, palladium, and platinum.
The Bottom Line
While car theft is finally declining in Canada, the problem is far from solved. Whether you own a luxury SUV, a work truck, or an everyday commuter, taking the right precautions can significantly reduce your risk.
Want more protection? Make sure your auto insurance policy has you covered. A stolen car can be a nightmare, but the right insurance ensures you're not left stranded.
Stay safe, stay vigilant, and keep your car where it belongs—with you.
2 Auto theft: BILLION DOLLAR QUESTION - Canadian Underwriter
3 Canada's Most Stolen Vehicles
* The CDSPI Home & Auto Insurance Program is underwritten by The Personal Insurance Company and distributed by CDSPI Advisory Services Inc.
The CDSPI Home & Auto Insurance Program is subject to certain conditions, limitations and exclusions. Products, services, savings and discounts are subject to eligibility conditions and may vary by jurisdiction. Rates and discounts are subject to change without notice. The CDSPI Home & Auto Insurance Program is not available to residents of Quebec. Auto insurance is not available to residents of Manitoba, Saskatchewan and British Columbia due to government-run plans. The terms and conditions of the coverages described are set out in the insurance policy, which always prevails.