Top 10 Most Stolen Cars in Canada

November 19, 2025, Kitchener, Ontario

Posted by: Robert Deutschmann, Personal Injury Lawyer

Canada’s auto-theft landscape shifted in 2024, with a familiar SUV making an unsettling move to the top. Équité Association’s analysis of the year’s data shows the Toyota RAV4 claiming the No. 1 spot as the most stolen vehicle in Canada, stolen 2,080 times and accounting for a theft rate of about 0.38%.

This marks a notable shift in the pattern of vehicle thefts and highlights how organized crime continually adapts to evolving vehicle technology and market demand. The RAV4’s rise underscores why newer-model SUVs—especially those with keyless entry and push‑to‑start systems—remain prime targets for well-funded criminal networks. In 2024, the RAV4’s popularity, broad serviceability, and high resale value translated into substantial profits for theft-for-profit operations. While the RAV4 topped the list, other commonly stolen vehicles—the Dodge Ram 1500, Honda CR‑V, Ford F‑150, Honda Civic, and more—also reflect a broader trend toward high-demand, versatile models.

Québec and Ontario were notably affected, consistent with the report’s emphasis on regional vulnerabilities and the sophistication of theft schemes. The data show that even newer model years can be at risk when security gaps exist, particularly around keyless access systems. This reality isn’t just a matter of getting caught up in headlines; it’s a reminder that security is a moving target, requiring ongoing attention from manufacturers, policymakers, insurers, and drivers alike.

One critical call to action from Équité is for stronger, standardized protective measures across North America. The association advocates for Transport Canada and its U.S. counterpart to adopt the harmonized ULC 338 standard, which would mandate modern vehicle theft deterrent equipment and systems. A unified standard would raise the baseline for all vehicles, reduce ambiguous compliance, and provide clearer guidance for installers, makers, and consumers. In essence, it’s a practical step toward reducing theft opportunities at the design and implementation level, before the thief even tries to exploit a vulnerability.

Practical steps to reduce the likelihood your car becomes a theft statistic

• Invest in visible, reputable anti-theft devices: engine immobilizers, loud alarms, and purpose-built immobilizers or kill switches can deter thieves who rely on quick, low-risk grabs.
• Strengthen keyless-entry defenses: park with the fob in a Faraday pouch, use a shielded container, or place fobs away from doors and windows to reduce relay attacks.
• Use a steering wheel lock or visible mechanical anti theft devices in addition to electronic security.
• Plate and protect your vehicle identification: consider VIN etching on windows and ensure your vehicle is clearly identified as a target for insurers and responders.
• Install a GPS tracker with real-time alerts and remote immobilization capabilities, and share access with your insurer or a trusted monitoring service.
• Park strategically: whenever possible, in a locked garage or a well-lit, monitored area; avoid leaving the vehicle in isolated spots for extended periods.
• Maintain up-to-date software and recall fixes: vehicle security features improve with firmware updates; stay in touch with your dealer and manufacturer for recommended updates.
• Consider a layered approach: combine OEM protections, aftermarket deterrents, and robust driver behavior changes (like never leaving keys near entry points or in foyers).

The takeaway is clear: with the RAV4 leading the 2024 theft list, a multi-layer defense—plus consideration of harmonized, stronger security standards—offers the best defense against evolving theft techniques. For drivers, staying informed, adopting practical protection measures, and supporting policy improvements can collectively raise the bar for thieves.

Credit: Équité Association, Top 10 Most Stolen Vehicles of 2024. Source: https://www.equiteassociation.com/top-10-most-stolen-vehicles

About Deutschmann de Koning Law

Deutschmann de Koning Law serves South-Western Ontario with offices in Kitchener-Waterloo, Cambridge, Woodstock, Brantford, Stratford and Ayr. The law practice of Robert Deutschmann and Nick de Koning focuses almost exclusively in personal injury and disability insurance matters. For more information, please visit www.ddinjurylaw.com or call us at 1-519-742-7774.