Imagine stepping outside your home one morning only to find that your car is missing from the driveway. This nightmare became a reality for too many Canadians in 2022.
A shocking spike in auto theft was reported all across Canada, according to a report by GlobalNews. With every theft, a story of loss and frustration unfolded, leaving victims confused and angry.
2022 was a big year for car thieves. In Ontario, auto thefts increased by 48%, and in Quebec, they increased by 50%. These numbers have put Canada in the spotlight as a “source country for illegal trade,” the auto insurance fraud prevention organization said in a news release.
But which cars were stolen the most? What cities reported the highest rates of auto theft? These questions became the center of national attention.
Buckle up as we go through the mystery behind auto theft, and Canada’s most stolen vehicles in 2022, and find out if your city makes the list!
On this Page:
Top 10 Most Stolen Vehicles in Canada
Here’s the list of the top 10 most stolen cars in Canada in 2022, along with their theft frequency rates:
| Rank | Vehicle Model & Year | Theft Frequency Rate |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Honda CR-V (2020) | 1.2% |
| 2 | Dodge RAM 1500 Series (2022) | 0.5% |
| 3 | Ford F150 Series (2020) | 0.3% |
| 4 | Lexus RX Series (2020) | 1.9% |
| 5 | Toyota Highlander (2021) | 1.5% |
| 6 | Honda Civic (2019) | 0.2% |
| 7 | Jeep Grand Cherokee (2021) | 1.1% |
| 8 | Land Rover Range Rover (2020) | 3.9% |
| 9 | Chevrolet/GMC Silverado/Sierra 1500 Series (2006) | 2% |
| 10 | Jeep Wrangler (2021) | 9% |
1. Honda CR-V (2020)
The Honda CR-V takes the top spot with 5,620 thefts in 2022. With a theft rate of 1.2%, this SUV was the most stolen vehicle in Canada, revealing a significant vulnerability among these popular family cars.
2. Dodge RAM 1500 Series (2022)
The Dodge RAM 1500 Series was not far behind with 2,600 thefts and a striking theft rate of 0.5%. This luxury SUV’s high theft rate is a reminder that even premium vehicles are not immune.
3. Ford F150 Series (2020)
The Ford F-150 Series made the list with 1,833 thefts. Despite a lower theft rate of 0.3%, these pickup trucks have been a consistent target for thieves.
4. Lexus RX Series (2020)
With 1,815 thefts and a theft rate of 1.9%, the Lexus RX Series stands as the fourth most stolen vehicle. Its popularity might be one reason for its place on this list.
5. Toyota Highlander (2021)
The Toyota Highlander’s theft rate of 1.5% led to 1,759 thefts in 2022. This SUV’s allure seems to extend beyond regular consumers, attracting the attention of thieves as well.
6. Honda Civic (2019)
The Honda Civic witnessed 1,493 thefts in 2022, translating to a theft rate of 0.2%. Its popularity might be one reason for its place on this list.
7. Jeep Grand Cherokee (2021)
The Jeep Grand Cherokee had 1,349 thefts reported, with a theft rate of 1.1%. Its strong presence on the road also makes it a frequent target for auto theft.
8. Land Rover Range Rover (2020)
The Land Rover Range Rover had 1,343 thefts in 2022 with a theft rate of 3.9%. The vehicle’s high theft rate indicates its desirability to thieves, making it more susceptible to being targeted for auto theft.
9. Chevrolet/GMC Silverado/Sierra 1500 Series (2006)
1,260 thefts were reported for the Chevrolet/GMC Silverado/Sierra 1500, with a theft rate of 2%. These older models still attract unlawful interest.
10. Jeep Wrangler (2021)
Rounding out the list, the Jeep Wrangler had 1,189 thefts reported. It has the highest theft rate of 9% which makes it a common target for auto theft.
Cities with the Highest Auto Theft
Calgary, AB
Once again, Calgary tops the list with 535 thefts per 100,000 population. Organized crime groups and a high demand for luxury vehicles contribute to this problem.
Vancouver, BC
With 487 thefts per 100,000 population, Vancouver’s proximity to major ports and availability of stolen vehicles for export keep it high on the list.
Winnipeg, MB
Winnipeg had 415 thefts per 100,000 population. The prevalence of gangs, drugs, poverty, and cold weather are factors leading to this city’s high ranking.
Toronto, ON
Toronto’s more than 6,000 reported stolen vehicles in 2022, a 45% increase from 2021, reflect a unique situation impacted by COVID-19, increased online shopping, and other factors.
Auto Theft: Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Why was there an increase in car theft in 2022?
The car theft rate in Canada increased by 29% in 2022. Factors like the presence of organized crime groups, increased demand for luxury vehicles, and changes in public behaviour due to the COVID-19 pandemic contributed to this increase.
Q2: How can I protect my car from theft?
Vehicle owners can take several measures such as using steering wheel locks, installing alarm systems, not leaving valuables inside, and parking in well-lit areas to reduce the risk of theft.
Q3: Are older vehicles at risk of being stolen?
Yes, older vehicles like the 1999-2006 Chevrolet/GMC Silverado/Sierra 1500 are still at risk. They may be targeted for parts or other purposes.
Q4: Which provinces experienced the highest surge in car theft in 2022?
The provinces with the highest surge were Quebec, Ontario, Atlantic Canada, and Alberta.
Q5: What was the national vehicle recovery rate in 2022?
The national vehicle recovery rate was 57%, with higher rates in Atlantic Canada and Alberta.
