Every year, the Équité Association compiles a list of the most frequently stolen vehicles in Canada for the preceding year. While the 2024 list is not yet available, the 2023 edition of the report is ready to be reviewed. Is your vehicle on the list of most stolen cars in Ottawa? We hope not, but read on to find out!
National Snapshot: Canada’s Most Stolen Vehicles (2023 Edition)
In 2023, the Toyota Highlander claimed the top spot as Canada’s most stolen vehicle for the first time, with 3,414 reported thefts. Car thieves favour this SUV due to its high resale value and global serviceability. Following closely after the Toyota Highlander are the Dodge Ram 1500 Series and Lexus RX Series, with 3,078 and 3,037 thefts, respectively. Nearly all of the vehicles on the 2023 national list are 2019 or newer models and have vulnerabilities associated with keyless ignitions.
Top 10 Most Stolen Vehicles in Canada
- Toyota Highlander (2021)
- Dodge Ram 1500 Series (2022)
- Lexus RX Series (2022)
- Honda CR-V (2021)
- Toyota RAV4 (2021)
- Honda Civic (2019)
- Jeep Wrangler (2021)
- Land Rover Range Rover Series (2020)
- Chevrolet/GMC Suburban/Yukon/Tahoe Series (2023)
- Chevrolet/GMC Silverado/Sierra 1500 Series (2006)
Provincial Spotlight: Ontario
Ontario continues to experience high rates of vehicle theft, with various types of vehicles at risk. The Lexus RX Series leads the province’s list with 2,852 thefts, followed closely by the Toyota Highlander and Dodge Ram 1500 Series with 2,838 and 1,977 thefts, respectively. SUVs dominate the top spots, reflecting their popularity and the lucrative market for their parts.
Top 10 Most Stolen Vehicles in Ontario
- Lexus RX Series (2022)
- Toyota Highlander (2022)
- Dodge Ram 1500 Series (2022)
- Honda CR-V (2021)
- Toyota RAV4 (2021)
- Land Rover Range Rover (2020)
- Jeep Wrangler (2021)
- Ford F150 Series (2020)
- Honda Civic (2019)
- Acura RDX (2021)
Provincial Spotlight: Quebec
In Quebec, the Toyota RAV4 tops the list with 1,470 thefts over the year. Honda CR-V and Honda Civic are also being frequently stolen, with 1,291 and 609 thefts, respectively. Unique to Quebec’s list are vehicles like the Hyundai Tucson and Kia Sportage.
Top 10 Most Stolen Vehicles in Quebec
- Toyota RAV4 (2021)
- Honda CR-V (2021)
- Honda Civic (2016)
- Toyota Highlander (2021)
- Jeep Wrangler (2021)
- Dodge Ram 1500 (2022)
- Hyundai Tucson (2020)
- Acura RDX (2021)
- Chevrolet/GMC Suburban/Yukon/Tahoe Series (2023)
- Kia Sportage (2020)
What These Trends Mean for Vehicle Owners
Across provinces, the newer car models with keyless ignition systems are at an increased risk of theft. For such vehicles, it is incredibly important to install ULC 338-compliant anti-theft devices, such as steering wheel locks, electronic immobilizers, OBD port blockers, and aftermarket alarm systems. These tools effectively deter even sophisticated theft techniques such as key fob signal amplification and reprogramming attacks.
How to Protect Your Vehicle
Below are a few tips to make sure that your vehicle is protected from theft:
- Ensure that your insurance policy covers theft and related damages.
- Install anti-theft devices, such as brake locks, wheel locks, and OBD port locks.
- Install GPS tracking devices in your car to aid in recovery if it’s stolen.
- Always park in well-lit areas and avoid leaving valuables in plain sight.
- Store your key fob in RFID-blocking pouches to prevent signal amplification attacks.
Why Talk to an Insurance Broker?
A car insurance broker, such as Rowat Insurance, can help you find the best coverage for your vehicle at the most affordable price. They will assess your vehicle’s risk profile and shop around for a policy that offers the best protection against theft and other risks. Your broker will also provide personalized advice on the best coverage options to safeguard your vehicle.
Keep Your Vehicle Protected with Rowat Insurance
Whether your vehicle is among the most stolen cars in Ottawa or not, protect your vehicle with robust car insurance coverage. Talk with our professionals at Rowat Insurance to discuss your options.