The Équité Association top 10 most stolen vehicles list for 2024 is now available showing the Toyota RAV4 taking the top spot as the most frequently stolen vehicle in Canada. Although the association reports a national 19 per cent decline in auto theft, losses from auto theft continue to exceed $1-billion annually in claims.
They say organized crime’s tactics have evolved over time: The association reports a 47.5 per cent spike in thefts of high value luxury vehicles over $200,000. “Criminals are focusing on maximizing their payouts as auto theft becomes riskier due to strategic law enforcement and government resourcing,” says the association’s vice president of investigative services, Bryan Gast.
On publishing the annual list, the association took the opportunity to call for Public Safety Canada to champion preventative measures like mandating the ULC 338 anti-theft standard.
About ULC 338
ULC 338, the vehicle theft deterrent equipment and systems standard, is a joint Canada-United States national standard for vehicle theft deterrent equipment and systems – electronic immobilization system and aftermarket installation requirements.
“Adopting this unified, modern standard will deter thieves, provide clarity for manufacturers and installers and protect consumers,” the association states.
Équité also notes that newer model SUVs, particularly those with keyless security vulnerabilities, remain prime targets, especially in Ontario and Quebec. “The Toyota RAV4 was stolen over 2,000 times across the country in 2024, reflecting its high demand, global serviceability and high resale value,” they add. “We’re seeing a shift towards stolen vehicles being re-VINed for sale or disassembled in illegal chop shops and sold for parts,” Gast continues. “As the cost to buy and maintain vehicles rises, we can expect to see this trend to grow.”
