Top 10 Vehicles Most Targeted for Theft in Canada for 2024
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When it comes to compiling data on vehicle thefts, insurance companies have the inside track.
As of 2024, Speedy Locksmith Ottawa has looked into Canada’s most frequently stolen vehicles.
If you’re concerned about whether your ride is a target, here’s the latest list based on the likelihood of theft, detailing the vehicle model and year:
The Top 10 Most Stolen Car Models in Canada for 2023
The list below documents the ten most stolen vehicle models in Canada for 2023:
Rank
Model
1
2016-2021 Honda CR-V
2
2016-2021 Lexus RX Series
3
2015-2020 Ford F-150 Series
4
2016-2021 Honda Civic
5
2013-2019 Toyota Highlander
6
2011-2018 RAM 1500 Series
7
1999-2006 Chevrolet/GMC Silverado/Sierra
8
2018-2021 Honda Accord
9
2011-2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee
10
2013-2018 Toyota RAV4
(Source: Équité Association)
What Occurs After a Vehicle Goes Missing?
When a car is stolen, it is used for the following primary reasons:
- It is used in other crimes
- The vehicle is chopped up to resell the parts
- Joyriding
- Resale of the car
Upon discovering your vehicle has been stolen, immediate action is crucial.
Contact the police and notify your insurance company.
Provide authorities with specific vehicle details such as the make, model, license plate number, and distinguishing features.
Local law enforcement may discover your vehicle near its last known location.
If a member of the public finds your vehicle, it’s essential to notify authorities for documentation. Remember, you may still need to file an insurance claim for any damages, even if the car is recovered.
Methods Behind Vehicle Theft: A Closer Look
Understanding the evolving methods behind vehicle theft is essential for every vehicle owner.
As we delve deeper into the subject, it becomes evident that modern-day car theft has become increasingly sophisticated, often bypassing traditional security measures with alarming ease.
Here’s an elaborative insight into the techniques employed by thieves in 2024.
Electronic Interception
One of the most prevalent techniques in contemporary vehicle theft involves electronic interception.
Thieves use readily available electronic devices, often purchased online, to intercept and replicate the signals emitted by key fobs.
These devices capture the unique code transmitted by a vehicle’s key fob and then relay it to a secondary device near the car.
This secondary device effectively mimics the presence of the original key fob, granting the thief access to the vehicle.
Signal Amplification and Relay Attacks
Signal amplification and relay attacks represent another advanced method used by tech-savvy thieves.
In this technique, two devices work in tandem: one amplifies the weak signal from a genuine key fob inside a home, while the other device, held near the vehicle, receives this amplified signal.
As far as the vehicle is concerned, the signal appears genuine, allowing the thief to unlock and start the car without any physical contact with the key fob.
Onboard Diagnostics Port (ODP) Exploitation
Modern vehicles have an Onboard Diagnostics Port (ODP) for diagnostics and maintenance. Yet, this port has also become a potential vulnerability.
Skilled thieves can access the ODP to code a new fob, bypassing the vehicle’s security system.
Thieves can reprogram the vehicle’s electronic systems by connecting a specialized device to the ODP, granting them complete control over its functionalities.
Traditional Methods
While electronic methods dominate the landscape, traditional techniques have remained.
Opportunistic thieves may still use methods like smashing windows, picking locks, or even using counterfeit keys.
Nonetheless, these methods are less common and typically reserved for situations where electronic methods are impractical or ineffective.
Safeguarding Your Vehicle from Theft
To mitigate the risk of theft, consider these proactive measures:
- Parking: Always park in well-lit areas or garages.
- Key Management: Never leave your keys or fob inside the vehicle or near entry points in your home.
- Electronic Protection: Utilize Faraday bags or boxes to block key fob signals.
- Anti-Theft Devices: Consider installing a kill switch or a tracking device. A kill switch is a discreet manual switch that disrupts the car’s ignition system, making it virtually impossible to start without the switch being engaged.
Additional precautions include:
- Document Security: Store your vehicle’s title and registration papers securely.
- VIN Etching: Have the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) etched onto the windows, deterring potential resale by making it easily traceable.
Consult your insurance provider for more tailored recommendations on safeguarding your vehicle against theft. By staying informed and proactive, you can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to vehicle theft in 2024.
Check the Best Steering Wheel Locks For 2023 by Forbes
Yes, we know it can still be sawed through, but it remains less effective as the thief will not be walking around with the hacksaw but an electronic device instead.
Never leave your car fob inside the vehicle or even near the home entrance.
Furthermore, use a Faraday box or a bag to help block the signal.
You can find them available online, and best be aware of fakes.
Another excellent deterrent is an anti-theft tracking device or installing a kill switch on your car. The kill switch is a simple switch you need to engage before you can drive your vehicle.
The manual switch, wires to the car ignition, battery, or fuel line. Still, keep it a secret and place it in a non-obvious place and ensure you flip that switch when parking your car.
If your car is parking home always put the keys in Car Key Signal Blocker Box.
Neither should you leave your title or registration papers anywhere they can be easily found.
Another crucial thing is to have the VIN etched on the car windows, as it will make it difficult for a thief to resell.
Lastly, talk to your insurance provider about other ways to protect your vehicle against theft.
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