The 10 most stolen vehicles in Canada — 2023 report

This article has been updated from a previous version.

Équité Association (Équité) just released it's Top 10 Stolen Vehicles in Canada list. This year’s list has identified Canada as an internationally known “source country for illegal trade,” adding that auto theft across the country is used to fund terrorism and organized crime both at home and abroad.

In addition to naming the specific models of oft-targeted vehicles, they've also listed the number of those vehicles insured across Canada, the number of thefts for each vehicle model year, as well as their theft rate. In 2022, auto-theft claims amounted to a record high of $1.2 billion, subsequently adding more financial pressure to increase law enforcement and further burning our court system.

There's also the higher cost of insurance itself on drivers — RATESDOTCA found that the cost of comprehensive insurance jumped upwards of 25% on these commonly stolen vehicles over the past two years alone. Increased claims of theft have also led some insurers to impose a $500 surcharge on high-risk models upon renewal, only removed upon installation of an anti-theft device such as the Tag tracking system or a steering wheel lock.

Compared to last year's list of most stolen vehicles, Équité reported an uptick of trucks being stolen across Canada, primarily models from 2020 and later (with the exception of 2006 models of Chevrolet, GMC Silverado, and Sierra 1500 Series trucks). SUVs have been popular with both drivers and thieves over the past few years, and they continue to be popular, taking up six spots on the 10 most stolen list.

The 10 most stolen vehicles in Canada

Just like previous years, Équité also noticed regional insights, showing which vehicles thieves are more likely to target by province.

The 10 most stolen vehicles in Ontario in the 2023 report

In Ontario, criminals tend to seek these vehicles:

Often, thieves target Lexus and high-end Toyota models for export by organized crime groups, while others have been identified in street racing rings.

The 10 most stolen vehicles in Alberta in the 2023 report

In Alberta, auto thieves target these 10 vehicles the most:

In Alberta, pickup trucks are the most sought after by crooks, with the Ford F-Series being the among the most popular for several years in a row.

Unlike other provinces, models from 2007 and earlier are favoured by thieves, possibly because they're easier to steal as many do not have theft-deterrent devices installed.

How to protect your vehicle from theft

According to the Insurance Bureau of Canada, a vehicle is stolen every six minutes in Canada.

Consider these tips to avoid falling victim to auto theft:

• Don’t leave your keyless entry fob in your vehicle or near the front entrance to your house unprotected. Faraday boxes or bags can block the key fob’s signal from being relayed to thieves.
• Install an electronic vehicle immobilizer to prevent thieves from hot-wiring your car, truck, or SUV.
• Install a tracking device that emits a signal to police, enabling them to locate your vehicle.
• Don’t be an easy target for auto theft. Park your vehicle in a well-lit area or garage and ensure all the windows are closed and the doors are locked.
• Have a visible or audible device that tells thieves your vehicle is protected, and never leave your car running when unattended.
• Get a steering wheel or brake pedal lock.

If you are concerned about the cost of your car insurance — whether it’s for your existing vehicle or a prospective one — take a few minutes to compare auto insurance quotes from several insurance providers. It could save you money on your annual premium.