Organized crime groups, often looking to export vehicles overseas or sell them for parts, are the main drivers behind these thefts. In 2024, the list of the most stolen vehicles to date reflects this trend, with a significant increase in thefts of newer, high-value vehicles.

Top 10 Most Stolen Vehicles in Ontario (as of Sept 2024)

According to the latest data, here are the most frequently stolen vehicles in Ontario:

1. 2020 Honda CR-V
2. 2020 Lexus RX Series
3. 2022 Dodge RAM 1500 Series
4. 2021 Toyota Highlander
5. 2020 Land Rover Range Rover
6. 2020 Ford F-150 Series
7. 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee
8. 2021 Jeep Wrangler
9. 2019 Honda Civic
10. 2021 Acura RDX

These vehicles are popular targets due to their high demand in overseas markets and the lucrative resale value of their parts, such as catalytic converters and transmissions​.

Where Are Vehicles Being Stolen?

Certain cities in Ontario are experiencing a spike in auto thefts, particularly in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). The cities with the highest auto theft claims in 2023 were:

1. Toronto
2. Brampton
3. Mississauga
4. Vaughan
5. Markham

In Toronto alone, over 12,000 vehicles were stolen in 2023, reflecting a growing concern for vehicle owners across the region​. In 2024, the cities with the highest rates of vehicle theft to date in Ontario include:

1. Toronto: The city consistently reports the most vehicle thefts and it is the top location for auto theft in Ontario​
2. Brampton: Coming in second, Brampton experienced a significant number of auto thefts, contributing heavily to the rising insurance claims costs​
3. Mississauga: Close behind Brampton, Mississauga also saw a large number of thefts, with costs related to stolen vehicles surging​
4. Vaughan: This city has witnessed one of the highest increases in theft claims costs, spiking by nearly 789% over recent years​
5. Markham: Like Vaughan, Markham has experienced a dramatic rise in auto theft rates, with theft claims costs increasing by 989% between 2018 and 2023​

These cities, particularly in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), have become hotspots for vehicle theft, primarily targeting newer SUVs and luxury vehicles.

The Cost to Ontario’s Insurance Industry

The cost of auto theft claims in Ontario has soared, surpassing $1 billion in 2023. This represents a 524% increase in claims costs between 2018 and 2023. Cities such as Vaughan and Markham have seen theft claims surge by nearly 800-900%, leading to a significant impact on insurance premiums. If your vehicle falls within the top 10 most stolen list, you may see higher premiums or even surcharges due to the elevated risk​What Happens When You Make an Auto Theft Insurance Claim?

If your vehicle is stolen, it’s essential to act quickly and follow these steps:

1. Contact the police: Report the theft immediately and obtain a police report.
2. Notify your insurance company: Provide your insurer with the police report and any additional documentation they may request.
3. Work with investigators: Depending on the circumstances, your insurance provider may engage investigators to locate the vehicle.
4. Replacement or compensation: If your vehicle is recovered before the claim is settled, you can regain possession of it, though you may need to claim for any damages. If your claim is already paid out, ownership of the vehicle will transfer to your insurer.

Without comprehensive insurance, auto theft claims won’t be covered, so it’s vital to ensure you have the right coverage to protect yourself.

How to Protect Your Vehicle

Preventative measures are key to reducing your risk of theft. Here are some tips:

• Install a vehicle tracking system: This can help recover your vehicle faster and may even lower your insurance premiums.
• Use a steering wheel lock: This visible deterrent makes it harder for thieves to drive away with your car.
• Keep your keys secure: Avoid leaving your key fob in easily accessible locations, as thieves can hack the signal and steal your vehicle without needing the physical key​

Auto theft is an increasing concern for Ontario drivers, but taking the right precautions and ensuring you have comprehensive coverage can help protect you from the financial and emotional toll of losing a vehicle.

For more information on how to protect your vehicle and manage your insurance, contact Best Buy Insurance today.