Car theft in Canada hits thousands of drivers every year, costing over $1 billion in insurance claims. Criminals target specific makes and models because they’re easier to steal, have valuable parts, or can be quickly shipped overseas.
Knowing which vehicles are most at risk helps you make smarter choices when buying or protecting your car. This list covers the top 15 most stolen vehicles across the country, based on recent police and insurance data.
Honda Civic
This popular compact car has topped Canada’s most stolen car list for years, and it’s not hard to see why. Civics are everywhere on Canadian roads, which makes stolen parts easy to sell without raising suspicion.
Thieves love older Civic models because they lack modern security features like engine immobilizers and advanced alarm systems. The car’s reliable reputation means there’s always demand for Civic parts in the used market.
Honda CR-V
Compact SUVs like this Honda model have become a favorite target for car thieves across Canada. The CR-V combines the reliability Honda is known for with the popularity of SUVs in the Canadian market.
Many CR-V models, especially those from the early 2000s, can be started with basic tools or even a screwdriver. The vehicle’s high resale value and demand for parts make it profitable for criminals to steal and strip down.
Toyota Camry
Midsize sedans like this Toyota model represent everything thieves look for in a target vehicle. The Camry is incredibly common on Canadian roads, making it easy to blend in after being stolen.
Camry parts are in high demand because the car is known for lasting hundreds of thousands of kilometers. Older models lack sophisticated anti-theft systems, while newer ones are often stolen for export to countries where they command premium prices.
Dodge Ram 1500
Pickup trucks like the Ram 1500 are stolen for different reasons than regular cars. These vehicles are often targeted for their valuable parts, including catalytic converters, tailgates, and truck beds. The Ram 1500 is particularly popular in Western Canada, where truck culture is strong and parts are always needed. Many thieves also steal these trucks to use in other crimes because they’re powerful and can carry heavy loads.
Ford F-150
Canada’s best-selling truck is also one of its most stolen vehicles. The F-150’s popularity means there’s a huge market for replacement parts, making it profitable for thieves to steal and dismantle. These trucks are often stolen from job sites, parking lots, and residential driveways. The F-150’s reputation for durability means even parts from older models are valuable to truck owners looking for affordable repairs.
Chevrolet Silverado 1500
The Silverado joins other pickup trucks on this list because of its popularity and valuable components. Thieves target these vehicles for their catalytic converters, which contain precious metals worth hundreds of dollars. The truck’s widespread use in construction and trades means parts are always in demand. Many Silverado thefts happen quickly, with experienced criminals able to steal one in under two minutes.
Honda Accord
The Honda Accord shares many characteristics with its smaller sibling, the Civic, that make it attractive to thieves. This midsize sedan is extremely common in Canada, providing cover for criminals who want to avoid attention. Accord parts are interchangeable across many model years, making them valuable in the used parts market.
The car’s reputation for reliability means owners are willing to pay good money for genuine Honda components.
Lexus RX Series
Luxury SUVs like the Lexus RX are stolen for completely different reasons than economy cars. These vehicles are often targeted for export to countries where they sell for much higher prices than in Canada. The RX series is particularly popular in certain overseas markets, making it worth the risk for organized crime groups. Many of these thefts involve sophisticated operations that can steal and ship vehicles within hours.
Toyota Highlander
The Toyota Highlander has become increasingly popular with Canadian families, which unfortunately makes it popular with thieves, too. This three-row SUV is often stolen from suburban driveways and shopping center parking lots.
The Highlander’s hybrid models are especially targeted because their batteries and electric components are valuable. The vehicle’s size and power also make it useful for criminals who need to transport other stolen goods.
Acura MDX
Acura’s flagship SUV combines luxury features with the reliability Honda is known for. The MDX is often stolen for its expensive parts, including navigation systems, leather seats, and premium sound equipment.
These vehicles are popular in affluent neighborhoods, where thieves know they can find well-maintained examples. The SUV’s all-wheel-drive system and powerful engine make it attractive to criminals who plan to use it for other illegal activities.
BMW X5
German luxury SUVs like the X5 are prime targets for thieves who specialize in high-end vehicles. These SUVs are often stolen to order, meaning criminals already have buyers lined up before the theft occurs.
The X5’s advanced technology and premium parts make it valuable even when stripped down. Many of these thefts involve keyless entry hacks or signal amplification devices that can unlock and start the vehicle remotely.
Mercedes-Benz GLE
The Mercedes-Benz GLE represents the luxury end of the stolen vehicle market in Canada. These SUVs are typically stolen by organized groups who have the resources to bypass sophisticated security systems.
The GLE’s high value means even a single successful theft can be worth tens of thousands of dollars. Many stolen GLE vehicles are quickly shipped overseas, where they can be sold for much more than their Canadian value.
Infiniti QX60
Nissan’s luxury brand produces SUVs that are increasingly targeted by Canadian car thieves. The QX60’s popularity with families makes it a common sight in suburban areas where security might be more relaxed.
These vehicles often have valuable navigation systems and premium interior features that can be sold separately. The SUV’s reliability and fuel efficiency make it attractive to criminals who need dependable transportation.
Jeep Grand Cherokee
The Grand Cherokee’s rugged reputation and off-road capabilities make it attractive to certain types of criminals. These SUVs are often stolen for use in rural crimes or smuggling operations where their four-wheel-drive systems are valuable.
The vehicle’s popularity means parts are always in demand, especially components related to the four-wheel-drive system. Many Grand Cherokee thefts occur at outdoor recreation areas and shopping centers.
Audi Q5
Audi’s compact luxury SUV rounds out the list of most stolen vehicles in Canada. The Q5’s sophisticated technology and premium features make it valuable to thieves who specialize in luxury vehicles. These SUVs are often stolen using advanced techniques like signal jamming or key programming devices.
The vehicle’s all-wheel-drive system and turbocharged engine make it attractive to criminals who value performance along with luxury features.
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