How To Protect Your Toyota From Theft, And What To Do If It Is Stolen

Original publication date: November 2021, Updated May 2025

Vehicle theft is evolving. As cars become more connected, efficient, and tech-laden, thieves are adapting as well—often faster than automakers or law enforcement can respond. In recent years, Toyota models have become frequent targets due to their popularity and the rise in keyless vehicle theft methods. Fortunately, there are proven ways to prevent theft and to respond effectively if your vehicle is stolen.

The Rise in Vehicle Thefts: Understanding the Threat

Criminals today aren’t just breaking windows and hot-wiring ignitions. Many now use electronic tools to silently and quickly steal modern vehicles—especially those with keyless entry and push-button start systems. This tactic, known as relay theft, is a growing issue in urban and suburban areas alike.

Relay theft involves two people working in tandem. One stands near a home or building with a signal amplifier that captures the signal from a nearby key fob (even one sitting inside on a table or in a coat pocket). The second person, near the vehicle, receives the boosted signal and uses it to unlock and start the vehicle. In a matter of seconds, the vehicle is gone—without a shattered window or activated alarm.

In regions like Halton and across the Greater Toronto Area, police forces continue to report a surge in these types of thefts, especially targeting high-demand vehicles from brands like Toyota, Lexus, and Honda.

Toyota’s Response: Built-In Theft Recovery Tools

Toyota has implemented safeguards to help reduce the impact of theft and aid in recovery. One notable tool is Toyota Safety Connect, a suite of connected services that includes the Stolen Vehicle Locator feature. This system is available on many Toyota models equipped with the Entune or Toyota Multimedia platforms.

With Safety Connect active, owners benefit from a complimentary three-year trial that begins on the vehicle's in-service date. In the event of theft, the system can work with police to track and potentially recover the vehicle. Once the theft is reported and verified, Toyota’s response team can activate location tracking and relay information to local law enforcement.

How to Prevent Keyless Car Theft

While Toyota’s connected technology can aid in recovery, prevention is still the most effective defense. Here are some of the most effective strategies to help protect your Toyota:

1- Store Your Key Fob Securely

Keep your key fob away from entry points and windows. Ideally, use a signal-blocking pouch or Faraday box, which prevents radio signals from being transmitted or amplified.

2- Disable Keyless Entry (If Possible)

Some vehicles allow the keyless entry system to be temporarily disabled through the vehicle’s infotainment system or by following a manual sequence on the fob. This can be an effective nightly deterrent.

3- Use a Physical Deterrent

Tools like steering wheel locks or wheel clamps might seem old-fashioned, but they are highly visible and add time to a theft attempt. Thieves tend to avoid vehicles with physical anti-theft devices in favour of easier targets.

4- Install a Secondary GPS Tracker

For added protection, especially if your Toyota doesn't include Safety Connect or if the subscription has expired, consider a GPS tracking device. These can be hidden inside the vehicle and offer a backup if the built-in system is disabled.

5- Invest in Home Security

Install motion-detecting lights, doorbell cameras, or home surveillance systems. Video evidence can assist law enforcement, and visible cameras can deter thieves from approaching your property altogether.

What To Do If Your Toyota Is Stolen

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

Step 1: Contact the Police

Immediately report the theft to the police. Be ready to provide:

• Vehicle make, model, year, and colour
• VIN (Vehicle Identification Number)
• License plate number
• Any unique features or modifications
• Approximate time and location of the theft

Write down the report number and the officer's name and badge number for future reference.

Step 2: Notify Toyota (If Equipped with Safety Connect)

If your vehicle is equipped with Safety Connect, call 1-888-TOYOTA-8 (1-888-869-6828) as soon as possible. Provide the police report information and request activation of the Stolen Vehicle Locator. Once your subscription and police report are verified, Toyota will begin locating activities.

Step 3: Inform Your Insurance Provider

After notifying police and Toyota, contact your auto insurance provider to file a claim. Be ready to share the police report, vehicle details, and an inventory of any personal belongings that were inside the car.

Step 4: Notify Your Leasing or Financing Company (If Applicable)

If your Toyota is leased or financed, contact the financial institution. They legally own the vehicle until the loan or lease is paid off, and they must be informed of the situation. They may also provide specific steps to follow based on their policies.

Important Considerations After Theft

Do I Still Have to Make Payments on a Stolen Vehicle?

Yes, you are still contractually obligated to continue making lease or financing payments on a stolen vehicle until the matter is resolved, either through vehicle recovery or insurance settlement.

Will My Insurance Premium Go Up?

It depends. Filing a theft claim may impact your insurance premium, but the exact outcome varies by insurer. Some policies offer forgiveness for the first claim, while others may increase your rate after a payout.

What If the Vehicle Is Recovered?

If your vehicle is found and returned, contact your insurance provider and leasing or financing company immediately. The vehicle may need to undergo repairs or an inspection before it is returned to use.

Final Thoughts: Stay Vigilant, Stay Prepared

As thieves become more sophisticated, vehicle owners must be proactive. The best approach is a layered defense—combining digital safeguards like Safety Connect and GPS tracking with physical barriers like wheel locks and secure storage.

Toyota owners should also ensure that their Safety Connect subscription is active, understand their insurance policy’s theft provisions, and take simple daily precautions like storing key fobs in signal-blocking enclosures.

Vehicle theft can be a stressful experience, but with preparation and quick action, you can significantly increase the chances of recovery and minimize the impact.