Top 9 Most Stolen Cars in Victoria: Is Yours on the List?
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Top 9 Most Stolen Cars - Victoria, 2024
| Make and Model | Number of Recorded Theft Offences |
| Holden Commodore | 1,497 |
| Toyota Hilux | 728 |
| Toyota Corolla | 639 |
| Toyota Camry | 619 |
| Ford Falcon | 531 |
| Nissan Navara | 491 |
| Toyota Hiace | 348 |
| Volkwagen Golf | 336 |
| Toyota LandCruiser | 326 |
Source: Crime Statistics Agency
Victoria is experiencing an unprecedented car theft crisis. In the 12 months to September 2024, 25,773 vehicles were stolen in the state and was over 8,000 more car stolen and was the highest level in more than 20 years.
If you own one of the frequently targeted models, understanding why your car is at risk and what you can do about it could save you from becoming the next statistic.
The Brands Thieves Want Most
Holden, Toyota, and Subarus experienced the sharpest theft increases, with some doubling compared to the previous 12-month period. Honda, Mazda and European brands like Audi, BMW and Mercedes Benz also made it to the larger list.
But what makes these particular vehicles so attractive to criminals?
The answer lies in a combination of factors: rare models, widespread ease of theft, valuable parts with strong resale demand, and—most critically—vulnerabilities in their electronic security systems. One in five vehicles are now stolen without their keys, signalling a dramatic shift in how car theft operates.
The Complete List of High-Risk Models
According to Victoria Police data, these specific models are being disproportionately targeted by thieves:
Holden Models
- Commodore VF (2013-2017)
Throughout 2024, 2,859 Holden vehicles were stolen in Victoria, representing a 92.9 per cent increase from the year prior.
Toyota Models
- RAV4 (2019-2024)
- Corolla (2015-2024)
- Hilux (2016-2023)
- Camry (2012-2022)
- LandCruiser and Prado (2008-2021, 2024-2025)
- 86 (2012-2017)
- C-HR (2017-2020)
Subaru Models
- Impreza/WRX (2015-2018)
- Outback (2015-2018)
- XV (2014-2018)
- Levorg (2016-2017)
Subaru thefts surged by 402 reports in the twelve months to January 2025, marking a 2x increase.
Street parking and residential parking topped place of theft taken; nothing seems safe
Understanding where thefts occur can help you make smarter parking decisions. Street and footpath parking accounts for 30 per cent (8,569) of all vehicles stolen in Victoria in 2024. However, residential locations aren't safe either. Private dwellings account for 23 per cent (6,586) of thefts, while residential grounds like garages, carports, and driveways represent 18 per cent (5,193).
Public carparks, both single-level and multi-level, account for 10 per cent (2,878) of stolen vehicles. Even seemingly secure locations aren't providing adequate protection.
Protection Strategies: What Actually Works
If your vehicle is on the target list, don't panic—but do take action. Here's what security experts and Victoria Police recommend:
1. Secure Your Key Fob Signal
To prevent key cloning, block signals emitted by your keys. To do this, store your keys in a signal-blocking pouch or box. Your keys cannot be cloned even near a doorway.
Shop Car Signal Blocking Pouches and Boxes
2. Add Visible Physical Deterrents
Remember, thieves assess targets in seconds. A visible steering wheel lock sends an immediate message that your car will take too long to steal. Even if a thief could eventually defeat it, they'll likely move on to an easier target.
3. Park Strategically
- Use your garage whenever possible
- If parking on the street, choose well-lit areas with high foot traffic
- Vary your parking location and routine
- Consider your driveway safer than street parking, but still lock your vehicle
However we understand the impracticality and unavailability of these. Choose options 1 and 2 to be cautious.
4. Avoid keeping Valuables in your Car
If your car cannot be stolen, your valuables inside the car can be stolen by breaking windows. Simple solution - don't keep them inside it.
What Doesn't Work
OBD Port Locks Don't Work Anymore
While OBD port locks were once effective, professional thieves have evolved past them. It's always wise to stop them at first entry, which is the key cloning stage that a Faraday pouch does. Modern criminals now bypass the OBD port entirely by accessing your car's wiring through external points like headlights. They unlock, disable the immobiliser, and start your engine without ever touching the port your lock is protecting. An OBD port lock might stop amateur thieves, but organised theft rings have moved on to techniques that render this security measure obsolete. It becomes a costly cycle of constantly repurchasing the latest OBD port lock just to stay one step ahead. Is it really worth it?
Over-Reliance on Factory Alarms
Standard factory alarms weren't designed to protect against OBD port attacks. Since the car's computer thinks a legitimate key is being used, the alarm never triggers.
Hiding Spare Keys in the Vehicle
Never, ever hide spare keys inside or near your car. Professional thieves know all the common hiding spots.
Lock It the lockOZ Way
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Sources: Victoria Police data, Crime Statistics Agency Victoria, CarExpert, RACV