Auto theft in Canada is surging, with insurance claims for stolen vehicles hitting a record $1.5 billion in 2023, up 19% from the previous year. Ontario is particularly affected, with auto theft claim costs increasing by 524% from 2018 to 2023, surpassing $1 billion for the first time.
This rise in thefts is primarily driven by organized criminal networks that profit from exporting stolen vehicles overseas. In Project Vector, a recent police operation, nearly 600 stolen vehicles worth $34.5 million were recovered from shipping containers at the Port of Montreal, with 75% stolen from the Greater Toronto Area (GTA).
Top 10 Most Stolen Vehicles in Canada
- Honda CR-V (2020 model year)
- Dodge RAM 1500 Series (2022 model year)
- Ford F-150 Series (2020 model year)
- Lexus RX Series (2020 model year)
- Toyota Highlander (2021 model year)
- Honda Civic (2019 model year)
- Jeep Grand Cherokee (2021 model year)
- Land Rover Range Rover (2020 model year)
- Chevrolet/GMC Silverado/Sierra 1500 Series (2006 model year)
- Jeep Wrangler (2021 model year)
Recent Car Bust in Peel
In a major auto theft bust, Peel police arrested 16 people and filed 322 criminal charges after a months-long investigation. They recovered 369 stolen vehicles valued at $33.2 million. The investigation revealed a family responsible for facilitating the transfer of stolen vehicles from the GTA to the Port of Montreal. Peel police urge anyone with information to contact investigators or submit tips anonymously via Crime Stoppers.
