Toyota GB statement on vehicle theft

Diversity at Toyota

We take the issue of Toyota and Lexus vehicle theft very seriously. We are continuously developing technical solutions to make our vehicles more secure, to help reduce the risk of theft.

An enhanced security hardware system was introduced in October 2021 (Lexus) and October 2022 (Toyota) on the latest models targeted by criminals. Since which, we have seen a significant drop in thefts of those models.

For older models, we endeavour to create solutions that can offer enhanced protection to our customers.  Following significant investments by Toyota GB, in line with that of other vehicle manufacturers, newly developed official Toyota and Lexus security hardware components will very soon be available to fit to those targeted models registered before October 2021.

Following communication from Toyota and Lexus in the coming weeks, owners should contact their local dealer to arrange fitment. Customers can already speak to their local dealer about the fitment of a protective plate to block access to the vehicle’s electronics. This is a nationwide customer care offering available on Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, Lexus RX and Lexus NX.

As a vehicle manufacturer, we can never completely eliminate the risk of vehicle theft. This is an industry-wide issue, concerning all vehicle manufacturers and affecting the most popular models first.

In order to further reduce the theft risk, we regularly collaborate and share information with insurance associations, police and law enforcement authorities, theft prevention experts and other key stakeholders around the world. This enables us to understand new threats and techniques used by thieves and develop more secured systems. 

Alongside our efforts, we urge those authorities to focus on reducing the number of thefts. We would also like to see action taken that leads to the end to the online sale of devices used by criminals to steal cars without using the car keys, as these devices serve no purpose other than a criminal one.

How do thieves manage to steal cars in this manner?

The thieves disconnect part of the headlamp and use a malicious device to send signals to the control CAN bus (the communication ‘backbone’ within a car) that allow the doors to open and the car to start without the key or remote control.

Thieves need to:

  • Purchase a relatively expensive rogue device (third-party ‘emergency start‘ device which costs around £2500 – £4000 each)
  • Gain physical access to the vehicle’s CAN bus communication wires for an uninterrupted period.

The third-party ‘emergency start‘ device has the capability to initiate an exploit in the following manner:

  • Once connected to the vehicle’s CAN bus communication wires, the third-party ‘emergency start‘ device can send a prioritised series of CAN signals to bypass the vehicle’s security and immobiliser systems, which could allow a thief to unlock the doors and turn the vehicle’s ignition ON.
  • The third-party ‘emergency start’ device is then disconnected.
  • At this point a thief can enter the vehicle and start the car without the key.

What is Toyota doing to prevent these types of attacks?

Toyota and Lexus take the issue of car theft very seriously.  We are continuously developing technical solutions to make our vehicles more secure to help reduce the risk of theft.

In fact, in the UK market, an enhanced security hardware was introduced in October 2021 on the latest versions of the models that had previously been targeted by criminals. Since then, we have seen a significant drop-off in terms of successful thefts of those models.

For older models we endeavour to create solutions that can offer enhanced protection to our customers. 

We cannot divulge the precise nature of the imminent security enhancement; should we do so we risk offering information into the public domain that could be of interest to criminal parties.

The intention is to make the security enhancement available to vehicles affected by CAN bus theft.

What models are known to be targeted by this issue and are newer models affected?

The models primarily targeted are fourth-generation Lexus RX and the Toyota RAV4. 

For older models we endeavour to create solutions that can offer enhanced protection to our customers.

Since October 2022, Toyota models are subject to a platform change that negates CAN Bus theft. This excludes Hilux, which is not subject to CAN bus attacks.

When did Toyota first become aware of the vulnerability in the security systems?

It is not so much vulnerability of the security systems but more so the growing rise in criminal gangs targeting vehicles for ‘cannibalisation’ and/or complete theft.  

Instances appear to have been rising significantly from 2019-2020.

There are many factors involved and at a global level. This includes parts of the world experiencing parts shortage which results in targeted thefts to supply vehicles and/or parts sent to countries experiencing trade restrictions.

Which models can be fitted with the enhanced security feature?

It can be fitted to Land Cruiser 150, RAV4 and first-generation Toyota C-HR.

When is the enhanced security upgrade going to be available and will it be free of charge?

Exact timings are still to be confirmed. We anticipate being able to advise the Toyota Centre network with full details soon. The security enhancement needs to be carried out at a Toyota Centre. Costs are under review; customers may incur a nominal charge.

Are any new models targeted by thieves?

While no car can be considered 100% immune to criminal intent, more recent models are equipped with enhanced security systems aimed at deterring CAN bus type thefts.

Given that the rise in this type or car theft has been known for several years in other countries and is growing in the UK why wasn’t I told about this?

Toyota takes the issue of car crime very seriously. To protect customers’ vehicles our approach is not to disclose our vehicle theft analysis data. The sharing of information could enable thieves to find ways to circumvent anti–theft technologies or make some models particularly attractive to some thieves and unnecessarily vulnerable to attack.

Is a Vehicle Protection Plate (VPP) available for any Toyota models?

Yes, for RAV4, excluding the Plug-In Hybrid model (which is not susceptible to CAN bus attack). The fitment is chargeable.

What is the countermeasure and what’s the plan moving forwards?

We are continuously developing technical solutions to make our vehicles more secure and reduce the risk of theft. An enhanced security hardware was introduced in October 2022 on the latest versions of the models that had previously been targeted by criminals. Since then, we have seen a significant drop-off in terms of successful thefts of those models.

Why is there no recall for vehicles susceptible to the CAN bus attack?

Recall announcements in the UK are guided by very specific guidelines as drawn up by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA). To qualify as a recall, the issue must relate to a safety or thermal type issue where there is potential for injury as a result of vehicle manufacture or component failure. Only in these such circumstances can a recall be announced. In recall circumstances, the DVSA will provide manufacturers access to ownership records for purpose of communication. Instances of theft do not trigger a recall.

Will Toyota pay for damage caused by an attempted theft?

No. This will need to be addressed by the customer and the vehicle insurers. While we understand theft or attempted theft can be highly upsetting and, in some cases, a costly experience, in such instances customers are first and foremost victims of crime. Toyota does not cover costs associated with criminal activity either under the terms of the warranty or as goodwill.

What is the position with insuring affected models?

As a manufacturer, we stay close to Toyota Insurance colleagues and indeed all motor insurers. We are aware that in many cases, insurance premiums might have increased as a direct result of vehicle crime. We need to refer you to your insurer for further comment.

1,020 comments

  1. I had the can bus prevention plates installed on my Rav4 when I bought it and overnight the car has been stolen through that channel. This is attrocious Toyota!

    They seemed to have disabled the tracking too.

    1. Hello Nigel,
      We are terribly sorry to hear that your RAV4 has been a victim of this crime, especially despite your efforts to secure it.
      Sadly, these thieves seem to be extremely determined in their efforts.
      Please be assured this is an issue we are taking very seriously and we are continuously developing technical solutions to make our vehicles more secure, to help reduce the risk of theft.
      We trust that you are now in touch with the police and your insurance company to minimise any further inconvenience to yourself.
      Once again, we are so sorry that you have been affected and we hope you are back on the road soon.
      Thanks.

  2. My RAV4 was stolen from outside our home this morning. It was only after the theft occurred today that I came across this statement from Toyota – I am so very disappointed of not being informed of this is issue when I purchased the car in July 2024 and why I wasn’t notified about the protection plate. I’m likely never to retrieve the car back. It’s really upsetting and disappointing to read this.

    1. Hi Gemma,
      We are terribly sorry to hear that you have been affected by this horrible crime.
      Due to the scale of this issue, communication on an individual scale with owners regarding security enhancement is difficult but please be assured we are doing our best to communicate our efforts on this matter with as many of our customers as possible.
      We trust that you are now in touch with the police and your insurance company to minimise any further inconvenience to you.
      Once again, we are really sorry that you have been affected by this crim and we hope you are back on the road soon.
      Thank you.

      1. With respect it’s not difficult, you are choosing to not address the issue leaving your customer market wide open to potential thefts. You should be recalling every vehicle to have this enhanced protection method put in place. I think you would find many customers would pay for the privilege to avoid their car being stolen and being targeted. You are failing your customers and you are failings the brand. By not disclosing the material available to you at the time of purchase is dishonest and im inclined to make a much more formal complaint. I reached out to your Guildford branch today to speak to the manager who did not return my call unsurprisingly. The police are involved but you are not doing enough.

    2. Hi my car also was stolen. I totally agree with you and I bought my Toyota from a Toyota dealer and they didn’t let me know about this issue. I’m happy to participate in the official complaints .

      1. I totally agree with you. Our Rav4 was stolen in July this year. We feel Toyota deliberately withheld information about the vulnerability of our vehicle and therefore left us exposed to CAN bus theft. Whilst we have now settled with our insurance company we are still without a car and have incurred costs associated with the theft which are not covered by our insurance company. Toyota are not interested. I see that trackers and plates are now being fitted free of charge – too late for us! Where is the compensation for those customers who have already had their vehicle stolen?

  3. I have been informed by my dealership my 21 plate Rav 4 Icon can have a tracker fitted by Toyota but if I require the plates fitted it will cost me £200. This was after they contacted Toyota UK to check. My issue is I feel fitting the plates and preventing theft is preferable to tracing the vehicle following theft.
    Most owners report having both plates and tracker fitted free of charge. Please clarify the situation

    1. Hello Ian,
      Thanks for your comment.
      You should be able to have both of these fitted free of charge.
      Please may you email cr@toyota.co.uk who will be able to investigate this further for you.
      Thanks!

  4. Hi 👋 All,

    Is the responsibility of the seller agency to Inform the owners ? About getting these tracker and the number plates fitmit to protect from theft.

    1. Hello Divya,
      Thanks for your comment.
      As we’re sure you know, vehicle theft is a problem that the entire automotive industry is facing.
      Due to the scale of this issue, communication on an individual scale with owners regarding security enhancement is difficult.
      Please be assured with measures such as this article, we are doing our best to communicate our efforts on this matter with as many of our customers as possible.
      If there is anything further we can assist you with in regards to this, please let us know.
      Thank you.

  5. Good afternoon,

    I recently purchased a 2021 chr 2.0l dynamic.. SO21 DNU.
    can you advise if this effected and by the security hi upgrade and if so do i just need to contact my dealership arrange the upgrade.
    Thanks

    1. Hello Andrew,
      Thanks for choosing Toyota.
      Your C-HR is at risk of CANbus theft.
      Your local Toyota Centre will be able to advise further on precautionary measures.
      Thanks.

  6. Hi is the free tracker available for the Chr
    Only spoke to my dealer Monday and he they didn’t mention it have seen on some forums that it’s available for the chr..
    Thanks

    1. Hi Andrew, thanks for getting in touch.

      Yes, the Tracker will be available for your vehicle. Your local Toyota Centre can assist further.

      Thanks,

      Toyota UK

      1. Hi thanks for your quick reply,is this area specific spoke to my dealer yesterday and they are doing training on this over the next two weeks.
        Thanks
        Andrew

  7. So with these trackers does it mean you’ve given up on patching the security vulnerability so they don’t steal it in the first place?

    1. Hi Linda, thanks for your comment.

      We have a dedicated counter crime team working on other measures.

      Thanks,

      Toyota UK

      1. That isn’t really a concrete answer, your initial statement mentions a Toyota/lexus developed solution for the underlying cause, which from what I have read is an unsecure can bus.
        My family in Portugal have been able to install a Toyota branded immobiliser which uses a fob. Can this please be made available for UK customers?

    2. Linda – The extra Toyota immobiliser fitted in Europe doesn’t meet UK Thatcham insurance requirements so wouldn’t be of any benefit to fit or reduce your insurance.

      1. But it will stop the car from being taken in the first place…
        Also insurance companies dont care if we have a tracker or not. I’d prefer to not have the car stolen in the first place than to have it stolen and recovered…

    1. Hi Kap, thanks for your comment.

      Yes, your local Toyota Centre will be able to fit a Vehicle Protection Plate and a Tracker.

      Thanks,

      Toyota UK

  8. Is it possible to get a better tracker installed, even if the customer pays the difference?
    Something with a fob, that blocks the car from starting when said fob is not in the vehicle?

    1. Hi Niran, thanks for getting in touch.

      You can choose a different tracker via a third party if you wish, but our partnership is with Tracker itself on one particular product.

      Thanks,

      Toyota UK

  9. Hello mr/mrs Toyota
    My Toyota chr gr was stolen last week and I could not find it. Thrives had gained access through the headlight wire.
    Since it has still not been recovered I was thinking of buying adifferent brand car but none of it catch my eye unlike my Toyota chr gr. so is there a Toyota chr 2nd gen made in 2023 or 2024 that isn’t vulnerable to canbus attacks?
    Thanks

    1. Hi Hamza, we’re really sorry to hear that.

      Yes, the latest generation Toyota C-HR is not deemed as vulnerable to CANbus theft due to the improved security platform.

      Thanks,

      Toyota UK

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