The 2025 Auto Theft Trend Report released by Équité Association1 revealed that national and industry initiatives have resulted in an 18% Canada-wide, year-over-year decrease in auto theft when compared to 2024. However, organized crime groups are adapting with more sophisticated methods, ensuring that the financial burden on Canadians remains high, with insurance claims totaling an estimated $900 million in 20252. 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.
The 10 Most Stolen Vehicles in Canada for 20253:
| RANK CAR MAKE & MODEL | NUMBER OF STOLEN VEHICLES | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Toyota RAV4 | 2,080 |
| 2 | Dodge Ram 1500 Series | 2,018 |
| 3 | Honda CR-V | 1,911 |
| 4 | Ford F150 Series | 1,833 |
| 5 | Honda Civic | 1,797 |
| 6 | Jeep Wrangler | 1,491 |
| 7 | Chevrolet/GMC Silverado/Sierra 1500 Series | 1,192 |
| 8 | Toyota Highlander | 1,141 |
| 9 | Toyota Tundra | 1,129 |
| 10 | Lexus RX Series | 1,124 |
Why are these vehicles being stolen?
Auto theft isn’t just about opportunity—it’s a huge criminal industry. Here’s why certain cars are stolen more than others:
It’s no surprise that high-end SUVs and pickup trucks dominate this list. These vehicles are highly desirable on international black markets because they hold their value, are in strong demand overseas, and can often be resold for significant profits. In many cases, organized crime networks steal vehicles in Canada specifically to ship them abroad within days of the theft.
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.
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.
Understand practice value and exit options.
Standard car alarms are not enough. Invest in:
- Steering wheel locks — A simple, highly effective deterent.
- 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 locs — 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.
Part 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 doors & windows.
Modern vehicle thieves often don’t need to break a window or force a lock. In some cases, they can capture and relay the signal from your key fob while it sits inside your home, allowing them to unlock and start your vehicle from outside. In other situations, theft can be even simpler — an unlocked front door or keys left in the ubiquitous bowl/tray near the entrance can provide quick access while you are distracted outside or away from the house. To reduce risk, keep keys away from doors and windows, avoid leaving them in visible or predictable locations, and consider storing key fobs in a Faraday pouch to help block wireless signals.
Don't store valuables in your car.
To help prevent vehicle break-ins, avoid leaving valuables visible or unsecured inside your car. Even small items — such as bags, electronics, charging cables, sunglasses, or loose change — can attract opportunistic thieves. If you must leave belongings in your vehicle, store them securely out of sight in the trunk before arriving at your destination.
It is also important to understand that items stolen from your vehicle are typically covered under your home insurance policy — not your auto insurance policy — which can sometimes result in two separate claims if both the vehicle and its contents are damaged or stolen. However, if both your home and auto insurance are with The Personal, only one deductible will apply in the event of a covered loss.
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.
Stay safe, stay vigilant, and keep your car where it belongs—with you.
1 As the national authority on insurance crime and fraud prevention, Équité Association is a not-for-profit organization supporting Canadian property and casualty (P&C) insurers.
3 Équité Association's 2025 Auto Theft Trend Report3 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.