Toyota RAV4 Tops List of Most Stolen Vehicles in Canada
In Canada, the alarming rise in auto theft continues to cause concern, with the cost of stolen vehicles now exceeding $1 billion annually. The latest report from the Équité Association sheds light on the vehicles most targeted by thieves, revealing that the Toyota RAV4 was the number one stolen vehicle in the country last year. The report highlights several factors that make the RAV4 an appealing target for criminals, including its high demand, global serviceability, and strong resale value. These characteristics help maximize the profits of car thieves, making the RAV4 the most sought-after vehicle in Canada.
Alongside the RAV4, a number of other vehicles, particularly newer model SUVs and pickup trucks, are being targeted for theft. The list includes the Dodge Ram, Honda CR-V, and Ford F-150, with the Toyota Highlander and Toyota Tundra also making an appearance in the top ten. In fact, Toyota vehicles are the most represented on the list, further emphasizing the brand's vulnerability to theft. Nearly 2,100 RAV4s were stolen in 2024, followed closely by the Dodge Ram 1500 Series with over 2,000 thefts.
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The rise in auto thefts can be attributed to the increased demand for certain vehicles and the exploitation of vulnerabilities in modern keyless entry systems. Thieves have adapted their methods, targeting high-value models that can be resold for substantial profits. Among the most commonly stolen vehicles are those that were manufactured in 2020 or later, as these newer models often feature keyless entry systems that are easier to bypass.
Despite a 19% drop in the overall number of vehicle thefts in Canada compared to 2023, the financial impact of these crimes remains staggering. The total cost of stolen vehicles and insurance claims continues to rise, reaching an estimated $1 billion annually. Luxury vehicles, particularly those from Lexus and Mercedes-Benz, have also seen a surge in thefts, with these high-end models being a prime target for criminals looking to capitalize on their high resale value.
Regional trends also shed light on how criminals are adapting their tactics. In Ontario and Quebec, newer, more expensive vehicles are increasingly targeted, often for illegal export. In contrast, in Alberta, older models are often stolen for use in local crimes or sold for parts. However, even in Alberta, there has been a noticeable increase in the theft of newer vehicles as criminal groups adapt their methods to maximize profits.
To combat these rising thefts, the Canadian government has introduced measures to crack down on auto theft. A national action plan has led to more frequent cargo searches by law enforcement and better cooperation between provincial, municipal, and federal agencies. The plan has had some success, with the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) intercepting hundreds of stolen vehicles in recent months. However, experts, including Bryan Gast from Équité, emphasize that more needs to be done to stay ahead of evolving criminal strategies.
Vehicle owners are being urged to take additional precautions to protect their cars, such as parking in well-lit areas, using steering wheel locks, and installing tracking devices. As long as auto theft remains a low-risk, high-reward crime, organized criminal groups are unlikely to abandon it. As such, both law enforcement and car owners must remain vigilant in the fight against this growing issue.
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