The 10 Most Stolen Cars in Canada

Understanding which makes and models are most at risk can help car owners take precautions to protect their vehicles and potentially avoid increased insurance costs. In this post, we’ll break down the most stolen vehicles in Canada overall, highlight the top targets in major cities like Montreal, Toronto, and Vancouver, discuss why keyless cars are particularly vulnerable, and answer common FAQs about stolen vehicles and auto insurance.

Top 10 Most Stolen Vehicles in Canada (National List)

When it comes to the 10 most stolen vehicles in Canada, the latest data reveals a clear pattern: larger SUVs and pickup trucks dominate the list, many of them recent models with keyless ignitions. According to the non-profit Équité Association’s 2023 report, these were the top 10 stolen vehicle models nationwide (with the most-targeted model year in parentheses):

1. Toyota Highlander (2021) – 3,413 thefts

The Toyota Highlander jumped to the #1 spot on Canada’s stolen vehicles list. Thieves go after this mid-size SUV because it combines strong resale value with huge international demand. Its parts fit across several Toyota and Lexus models, which makes dismantling and reselling especially profitable.

Beyond parts, entire Highlanders are often stolen and exported overseas, where checks are minimal and buyers pay top dollar. The SUV’s popularity at home, plus vulnerabilities in its keyless ignition system, make it one of the easiest and most lucrative targets for organized theft rings.

2. Dodge Ram 1500 Series (2022) – 3,078 thefts

The Dodge Ram 1500 continues to be a top target for thieves across Canada. Its strong market presence and reputation as a workhorse truck make it valuable both as a whole vehicle and for parts. Engines, transmissions, and body panels from the Ram 1500 are in high demand, which helps stolen trucks move quickly on the black market.

Newer models with keyless ignitions are especially vulnerable to electronic theft methods. Many stolen Ram 1500s are also exported overseas, while others are stripped locally to supply parts that can be reused across multiple Dodge and Chrysler vehicles. The truck’s mix of popularity, resale value, and security gaps explains why it ranks so high on the national stolen vehicles list.

3. Lexus RX Series (2022) – 3,037 thefts

Luxury crossovers like the Lexus RX are prized by organized crime groups. Their upscale design and high global demand make them ideal for export. Thieves often exploit the RX’s keyless entry system, allowing them to steal it quickly and quietly. Parts like navigation units, electronics, and body panels are also extremely valuable. The RX has consistently ranked near the top of stolen vehicles in Ontario and Toronto, where many are shipped out through the Port of Montreal.

4. Honda CR-V (2021) – 2,988 thefts

The Honda CR-V remains one of Canada’s most commonly stolen vehicles. Its massive popularity ensures strong resale demand, both as a whole vehicle and for replacement parts. Criminals frequently target late-model CR-Vs with push-button start systems, which are susceptible to relay attacks. Once stolen, CR-Vs can be dismantled for parts or shipped overseas. Its reliability and ubiquity on Canadian roads make it a consistent target for organized theft rings.

5. Toyota RAV4 (2021) – 2,690 thefts

Compact SUVs like the Toyota RAV4 are among the most stolen vehicles in Quebec and Montreal, where demand is especially high. The RAV4’s popularity with Canadian families translates into a thriving black market for parts, from doors and wheels to hybrid components. Thieves also exploit vulnerabilities in its keyless ignition system. Because RAV4s blend in so easily on the road, they’re often stolen for resale in Canada as well as export abroad.

6. Honda Civic (2019) – 1,654 thefts

The Honda Civic is the only sedan to make Canada’s top 10 stolen list. Its long-standing popularity, especially among younger drivers, means older models are everywhere on the road and in demand for parts. Thieves can strip a stolen Civic for bumpers, doors, or engines that fit multiple years. Many Civics lack modern anti-theft tech, making them easy to steal with simple tools. Even though newer SUVs dominate the rankings, the Civic continues to be a staple for car thieves nationwide.

7. Jeep Wrangler (2021) – 1,641 thefts

The Jeep Wrangler’s rugged design makes it an attractive target for thieves. Parts like removable doors, roofs, and wheels are especially easy to resell. Push-button start models have also proven vulnerable to electronic theft methods. Wranglers are often stolen for local resale or for parts rather than overseas export, since their off-road appeal and aftermarket market are strong in Canada. Their consistent theft numbers show just how desirable this model remains for criminals.

8. Land Rover Range Rover Series (2020) – 1,533 thefts

High-end luxury SUVs like the Range Rover are among the most exported stolen vehicles from Canada. These models are sought after internationally and often shipped out of major ports within days of being stolen. Their advanced features don’t necessarily deter theft — in fact, criminals often bypass their electronics through OBD-II reprogramming. The high profit margins make Range Rovers one of the most lucrative targets on the list.

9. Chevrolet/GMC Suburban/Yukon/Tahoe Series (2023) – 1,488 thefts

Large GM SUVs like the Suburban, Yukon, and Tahoe are consistently high on the stolen vehicle list. Their size, popularity, and expensive components make them ideal for theft rings. Many are stolen to be dismantled for engines, transmissions, and electronics, while others are shipped overseas. These models are especially at risk when parked in driveways overnight, where thieves can exploit keyless systems to get in and drive away undetected.

10. Chevrolet/GMC Silverado/Sierra 1500 Series (2006) – 1,383 thefts

Older pickups like the Silverado and Sierra remain easy targets because many pre-2007 models lack immobilizers. Thieves can hot-wire them in minutes or simply take advantage of trucks left running unattended. They’re often stolen for parts, used in secondary crimes, or resold in rural areas. Even though newer SUVs dominate theft headlines, these older work trucks still rank among Canada’s top 10 stolen vehicles.

Why these vehicles?

Auto theft experts say the national list is driven by what organized crime wants: SUVs and pickups that are valuable and easy to move. Many of the top stolen models are newer (2019 and up) with keyless entry ignitions, which have known vulnerabilities that thieves exploit. High-end SUVs (Lexus, Toyota) and big trucks (Ram, Silverado) can fetch a premium when resold overseas or parted out, so crime rings target them to maximize profits. In fact, a large proportion of stolen SUVs from Ontario and Quebec are quickly loaded into shipping containers and sent abroad to markets in the Middle East or Africa. Cars stolen in Western Canada, on the other hand, are less often exported and more likely to be recovered locally.

Regional differences:

The top stolen vehicles vary by region. In Ontario, high-end SUVs dominate (e.g. Lexus RX, Toyota Highlander). In Quebec, compact SUVs like the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V lead the pack. Atlantic provinces see pickups top the list – the Ram 1500 was the most stolen vehicle in Atlantic Canada in 2023. And in the Prairies/Alberta, many thefts involve older pickup models (like early-2000s Ford and GM trucks) which lack modern security systems. This regional variation often comes down to what’s available and what local thieves or smuggling networks target. Next, we’ll zoom into a few major cities for a closer look.

Most Stolen Cars in Montreal (Quebec)

Montreal has experienced a sharp rise in car theft over the past few years, mirroring the trend across Quebec. In 2023, over 15,000 vehicles were stolen in Quebec, a 57.9% increase over three years. Montreal, being Quebec’s major urban center, accounts for a large share of those thefts. In fact, the city saw a staggering 147% jump in auto theft between 2020 and 2023. (The good news: early 2024 showed a dip in Montreal thefts as police cracked down on theft rings.)

So, which models are thieves in Montreal after? The trends in Montreal largely reflect Quebec’s top stolen vehicles list:

• Toyota RAV4 – This compact SUV is extremely popular in Montreal. The 2021 RAV4 was Quebec’s #1 most stolen vehicle. Thieves target it for the same reasons as nationally: reliability, demand for parts, and keyless entry vulnerabilities.
  
  
• Honda CR-V – Another top target. 2020-2021 CR-V models were high on Quebec’s stolen list. Montreal thieves have been known to exploit the CR-V’s electronics to clone keys or perform “relay attacks” (more on that in the keyless section below).
  
  
• Honda Civic – Montreal has its share of older Honda Civics getting stolen. A 2016 Civic was among Quebec’s top 3 stolen models. Civics are often stolen for street racing or parts; an older Civic can be stolen in minutes with basic tools.
  
  
• Jeep Wrangler – Yes, even in Montreal the Wrangler appears in the top five. Its removable parts and high resale value make it attractive.
  
  
• Luxury SUVs – Models like the Land Rover Range Rover, Acura RDX, and Lexus RX also show up in Montreal’s theft reports These tend to be stolen by organized groups who quickly move them to the Port of Montreal for export overseas – Montreal’s port is a major exit point for stolen vehicles from Quebec and even Ontario.
  
  

Montreal’s problem with keyless ignition theft is significant. Many of the most stolen cars in the city are newer push-button start vehicles. Thieves in Montreal have been caught using relay devices to capture signals from key fobs inside owners’ homes, allowing them to unlock and start vehicles without ever touching the original keys. Police recommend storing fobs in Faraday pouches and using steering wheel locks to counter this high-tech theft method. We’ll dive more into keyless car theft shortly, but first, let’s look at Toronto’s situation.

Most Stolen Cars in Toronto (Ontario)

In Toronto and the broader GTA (Greater Toronto Area), auto theft has skyrocketed to unprecedented levels. Over 30,000 vehicles were stolen in Ontario in 2023 – more than any other province – and about 12,000 of those thefts happened within Toronto city limits. Organized crime groups have zeroed in on the Toronto area, in part because of its proximity to shipping ports and a high concentration of luxury vehicles. (Peel Region, just west of Toronto, saw over 7,000 thefts in 2023 – nearly one vehicle stolen per hour!)

Not surprisingly, Toronto’s list of most stolen cars closely mirrors the Ontario provincial list. If you’d like to see the full provincial breakdown, check out our guide to the most stolen cars in Ontario

Top targets in Toronto/GTA: Luxury SUVs are thief favorites in the Toronto area, making up the majority of the top stolen models. According to Équité Association data, the Lexus RX SUV was the most stolen vehicle in Ontario (and by extension the Toronto region) based on 2022-2023 stats. Hot on its heels were the Toyota Highlander and Dodge Ram 1500 pickup. Here’s a quick rundown of Toronto’s “most wanted” vehicles list:

• Lexus RX Series – Lexus SUVs top Toronto’s list. Thieves love them for export; a stolen RX can be in a shipping container at the Port of Toronto or Montreal within hours.
  
  
• Toyota Highlander – Another top target, with high theft rates in Toronto’s suburbs. As noted earlier, the Highlander’s keyless system vulnerabilities and global appeal make it a prime prize.
  
  
• Dodge Ram 1500 Series – Full-size pickups like the Ram are frequently stolen in the GTA, both for export and for local re-use in criminal activities (like towing other stolen cars or for parts).
  
  
• Honda CR-V & Toyota RAV4 – These mid-size SUVs are stolen in large numbers in Toronto, just as they are Canada-wide. They’re easier to blend in (common on the roads) and are valued for parts.
  
  
• Chevrolet/GMC SUVs & Trucks – Toronto has seen many Chevy Tahoe/Yukon/Suburban thefts (often higher-end trims or newer models with OnStar and keyless start). Thieves have been known to exploit the OnStar app or OBD-II port to program new keys for these. Also, older Silverado/Sierra pickups (late 90s to 2000s) still get stolen occasionally, often by opportunists when owners leave them unlocked or even with the car running (e.g. warming up in winter).
  
  

Toronto authorities have responded with specialized auto theft units and public awareness campaigns. York Regional Police (just north of Toronto) even reported a 31% decrease in auto thefts for 2024 after cracking down on theft rings and beefing up patrols. Still, the problem is far from solved. The Port of Montreal and even the Port of Halifax are routinely used to smuggle stolen Toronto-area cars overseas, which makes recovery difficult. For Toronto car owners, investing in secondary anti-theft devices (steering locks, wheel clamps, GPS trackers) and comprehensive auto insurance is more important than ever.

Most Stolen Cars in Vancouver (British Columbia)

Vancouver tells a somewhat different car theft story. Compared to Central Canada, auto theft rates in B.C. are lower and have even been trending down. In 2024, B.C. saw about 5,764 vehicles stolen, down from 6,258 in 2023. Vancouver, as B.C.’s largest city, still deals with daily vehicle thefts, but not on the explosive scale of Toronto or Montreal. There are a few key differences in Vancouver’s auto theft landscape:

• Older Vehicles Are Targeted: Unlike in Toronto/Montreal, many stolen cars in Vancouver are older models. ICBC (B.C.’s public insurer) notes that most vehicles stolen in B.C. tend to be older and not the latest high-end models. For example, 1990s and 2000s Honda Civics and Accords, older Toyota Corollas, and early-2000s pickup trucks are frequently stolen in Vancouver. These vehicles lack modern anti-theft immobilizers, making them easier targets for joyriders or part thieves.
  
  
• Domestic Theft vs. Export: A majority of stolen cars in B.C. stay in B.C. (or at least in Canada). In fact, roughly 7 out of 10 stolen vehicles in B.C. are recovered by police. This implies that many thefts in Vancouver are for short-term use (e.g. “borrowing” a car for a day) or local resale, rather than international export. By contrast, in Ontario/Quebec only a fraction are recovered, since many are quickly shipped overseas.
  
  
• Top Stolen Models in Vancouver: While B.C. doesn’t release a yearly “top 10” model list publicly, trends indicate vehicles like the Honda Civic (older models), Ford F-Series trucks (often 1999-2007 models), Dodge Ram trucks, and older Honda CR-V/Toyota RAV4 are among the most commonly stolen in the Vancouver area. High-end SUVs (Lexus, Highlander, etc.) do get stolen in Vancouver too, but not at the same rate as back east – likely because exporting them via Port of Vancouver is riskier (any ship leaving Vancouver for Asia or elsewhere must pass through U.S. waters, increasing chances of interception).
  
  
• Why Fewer New SUVs?: Experts suggest B.C.’s geographic situation plays a role. As noted by Équité Association, B.C. is less affected by organized auto theft for export “since the illegal markets overseas are across the Atlantic”. It’s simply less convenient for gangs to ship stolen cars out of Vancouver, so they focus more on Toronto/Montreal. Vancouver’s auto crime has more local joyriding and opportunistic theft elements.
  
  

All that said, Vancouverites shouldn’t be complacent. Auto theft is still a concern – over 9,700 vehicles were stolen in B.C. in 2023 according to police data. Vancouver Police advise drivers to use anti-theft devices, park in secure, well-lit areas, and never leave a vehicle running unattended (a surprising number of thefts occur when people leave their car warming up or idling). The good news is Vancouver’s collaborative auto crime task force (IMPACT) has helped drive theft numbers to their lowest rate since 2018. Keeping that trend going will require vigilance as thieves adapt to new technologies.

Why Keyless Ignition Cars Are Frequently Stolen

A recurring theme in modern auto theft is the vulnerability of keyless ignition systems. The majority of vehicles on Canada’s most stolen list are push-to-start cars with fob-based entry. Thieves have learned to exploit these systems through techniques like relay attacks and reprogramming, making it alarmingly easy to steal a car without the physical key.

How thieves steal keyless cars:

In a relay attack, two thieves work together using electronic devices – one stands near the house to pick up the signal from your key fob (which might be just inside your front door), then “relays” that signal to a second device held near the car. This tricks the car into thinking the real key is present, allowing the thieves to unlock the doors and start the engine. In mere minutes, your push-start car is silently driven away. Criminals have used this method extensively to steal vehicles like the Lexus RX, Toyota Highlander, and Ford F-150 – essentially any car with a keyless ignition is a potential target. Équité Association specifically pointed out that nearly all the top stolen models “have vulnerabilities that come with keyless ignitions” and often lack sufficient built-in anti-theft devices under the ULC 338 standard.

Another method involves hacking the car’s computer via the OBD-II port (the diagnostic port). Thieves can break a window or otherwise access the interior, plug a small device into the OBD port, and program a blank key fob to start the car. Some keyless entry cars have been stolen in under 2 minutes this way. High-end vehicles like Range Rovers and even push-start pickup trucks have fallen victim to this technique.

Which keyless cars are most stolen?

Essentially, the list we discussed earlier – Highlanders, Lexus RX, Honda CR-V, etc. – are all keyless models and hence top targets. Luxury brands (Lexus, Land Rover, BMW, Mercedes) and popular push-start models (Toyota and Honda SUVs, pickups) are heavily targeted. Even keyless entry minivans or sedans can be stolen quickly if not equipped with an engine immobilizer beyond the factory system.

Protecting a keyless car:

Car manufacturers have started to address these flaws (for example, some newer models let you turn off your fob’s signal or have motion sensors to disable the fob when it’s stationary). But owners of existing keyless cars should take precautions: use a Faraday pouch or metal box for your fob at home (to block its signal), consider installing a secondary immobilizer or a kill switch, and use a visible deterrent like a steering wheel lock. While no method is foolproof, making your car harder to steal will likely send thieves looking for an easier target.

FAQ: Stolen Vehicles and Insurance in Canada

Q: How is the “most stolen cars” list determined?
A: The national list of top stolen vehicles is compiled annually using insurance claims and police reports. Organizations like Équité Association analyze theft data across the country. Typically, a minimum data collection threshold is applied – meaning a vehicle model must have a significant number of theft instances before it’s recognized in the national list of stolen vehicles. This prevents rare or one-off thefts from skewing the rankings. For example, if only a handful of a certain luxury model were stolen, it wouldn’t make the “Top 10” unless those numbers grew. The 2023 list we discussed is based on nationwide theft frequencies (number of thefts) for each model.

Q: Why do thieves steal these particular cars?
A: Thieves steal vehicles that can maximize their profits and minimize their risk. High-value cars (luxury SUVs, full-size trucks) can be sold overseas for a hefty profit or stripped for expensive parts. Popular models (like a Honda Civic or CR-V) are stolen because there’s a large black market demand for their parts – either to repair other vehicles or to resell. Some older cars are targeted because they’re easier to steal (lacking modern security). Organized crime rings in Canada often focus on newer SUVs and trucks since they’re worth the most money in resale. On the other end, petty thieves might steal an older car left running unattended just for a joyride or to use in another crime. It really comes down to a mix of value, demand, and ease of theft.

Q: Are keyless ignition cars more likely to be stolen?
A: Unfortunately, yes – if a car has a keyless push-button start, it is often more attractive to professional thieves. The reason is the electronic vulnerabilities we described (relay attacks, key cloning). Many keyless cars don’t require thieves to physically obtain the key, which means the thief can operate quickly and silently. On Canada’s top 10 stolen list, virtually all vehicles were keyless models. This doesn’t mean non-keyless cars are totally safe (old-fashioned hot-wiring still occurs on very old models), but modern thieves have really capitalized on keyless tech weaknesses.

Q: Which vehicles are least likely to be stolen?
A: Generally, vehicles with strong built-in anti-theft systems, lower global demand, or unique identifiers have lower theft rates. For instance, electric cars and hybrids are currently stolen far less frequently. EVs often have advanced tracking systems, and there’s less demand for their parts overseas. Plus, the infrastructure to export and resell EVs isn’t as established. Niche or less popular models (that don’t have a big resale market) also tend to be safer. That said, any car can be stolen if a thief is determined – but statistically, thieves go after the easiest and most profitable targets first.

Q: How does car theft affect my insurance?
A: If you own a model that’s on the “most stolen” list (or otherwise known to be a high theft risk), you might see higher premiums or a theft coverage surcharge on your auto insurance Insurers factor in theft risk when pricing policies. For example, drivers of a Lexus RX or Ford F-150 might pay more for comprehensive coverage than drivers of a less-targeted model, all else being equal. If your own car is stolen, having comprehensive insurance is what covers vehicle theft. You’d need to file a claim, pay your deductible, and then the insurance would reimburse you (up to the car’s insured value). Frequent theft claims in your area can also generally push premiums up for everyone. On a positive note, installing anti-theft devices (alarm, immobilizer, tracking system) can sometimes earn you an insurance discount, since it reduces the risk of your car being stolen. It’s wise to talk to your insurer about what precautions might lower your rates.

Q: What should I do if my car is stolen?
A: First, contact the police and file a report with all details (location, time, any tracking info, etc.). Next, inform your insurance company right away to start the claims process – they’ll guide you on documentation needed. If your car has a tracking device or you have GPS through the manufacturer (like OnStar), report that to the police so they can attempt to locate it. It’s also helpful to have a copy of your car’s registration and a list of any unique features or modifications (for identification) ready for police and insurance investigators. Remember, never attempt to recover a stolen vehicle on your own – let law enforcement handle it.

Q: How can I protect my vehicle from theft?
A: There are several layers of protection recommended by experts:

• Common Sense Measures: Always lock your doors, close windows, and never leave your keys or fobs in the vehicle. Don’t leave a spare key hidden in the car. Avoid leaving your car running unattended, even for a quick errand – a running car is an easy target.
  
  
• Visible & Audible Deterrents: Use things like a steering wheel lock (the good old “Club”), brake pedal locks, or an audible alarm system. Thieves prefer quick, quiet steals – if they see a car has extra obstacles or will make noise, they often move on. Decals warning of an alarm or tracking device can also help.
  
  
• Immobilizers: Install an aftermarket immobilizer or kill switch if your vehicle doesn’t have a factory one. This could be a device that requires a hidden fob or code entry to start the car. Modern immobilizers can protect against the common relay or reprogramming attacks by disabling the ignition unless a specific electronic handshake occurs.
  
  
• Tracking Systems: Consider a GPS tracking system. Some tech will let you and the police track the vehicle if it’s stolen, increasing the chances of recovery. There are even services now that hide multiple tiny trackers in the car (so even if thieves find one, another might still ping its location).
  
  

By combining these layers – what law enforcement calls a “layered approach” – you significantly reduce the odds of theft. No method is foolproof, but making your car a harder target is often enough to send a thief looking for an easier score elsewhere.

Final Thoughts

Auto theft can be a frightening and frustrating experience. The reality is that car theft in Canada has become big business for organized crime, but there are steps you can take to protect yourself. Staying informed about which vehicles are at highest risk is a good start – if you drive one of the commonly stolen vehicles on the list, be extra vigilant. Regardless of what you drive, always practice good security habits and ensure you have adequate auto insurance coverage including theft protection. While the national auto theft trend is concerning, increased awareness and prevention can help turn the tide. Stay safe out there, and keep those keys guarded!

Sources: Recent auto theft reports and data were referenced from Équité Association’s 2023 theft trend report, Insurance Bureau of Canada statistics, and various news releases and articles that highlighted the surge in vehicle thefts across different provinces. For regional specifics, sources included statements from Toronto Police and Montreal’s SPVM, as well as ICBC data for Vancouver.