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.
I discovered the CAN bus vulnerability having watched the BBC 1 One Show, Wednesday 13th March 2024. On the show I’m sure they said the protective plates could be fitted free of charge to affected Toyota and Lexus models of vehicles. However, they said Toyota had only been rolling out the plates to vehicles registered to London addresses and were not telling customers there was a problem or proactively contacting owners.
If my 2021 RAV4 even comes close to being stolen, before security plates are fitted to help solve this vulnerability, I shall seriously consider never buying another Toyota or Lexus in my lifetime.
Wonderful news… At my service and MOT Friday 15th March the security plate has been successfully fitted. All praise to the team at Snows Toyota. Peace of mind again. Thank you
In relation to fitting the Cambus protection plates, twice in the last 2 days I have spoken to my dealer about having them fitted. The first time they were unaware of the parts and the second time (this morning) they said they can’t do anything until late April.
So with the hardware enhancement due in April, will this include the fitting of the plates? Also why is my dealer not wanting to fit these plates before April?
Hi Marc,
Please may we take your vehicle registration so we can assist you further with this query.
Thanks.
I have also been in touch with Toyota Customer Services and they have contacted the dealer to arrange the fitting of the Canbus plates, am just awaiting the dealer to contact me.
It looks like going through Toyota UK, is the only way I (and others) have been able to get these plates fitted.
Hi – I have a RAV4 PHEV registered in September 2022. I have had ONE CANBUS plate fitted by my dealer. Is this sufficient and will my vehicle need the EXTRA security enhancement you refer to?
Hello Peter,
Thanks for your comment.
Please may we take your vehicle registration so that we can investigate this for you.
Thanks.
Our Rav 4 Dynsmic was ordered in July 22. We did not take delivery until end of September 23. Is this year/ model equipped with the upgraded security.
Hi Peter,
Thanks for your question.
The RAV4 Plug-in is not susceptible to CAN bus attack.
Please let us know if there is anything else that we can assist you with.
Thanks.
Ours is not a plug in.
Hi Peter,
Our apologies!
Please may you provide your vehicle registration so we can assist you further.
Thanks.
Is my 72 plate CHR Sport vulnerable to this a CanBus attack? Private plate reg W123RLS
Hi Robert,
Unfortunately, as per our latest statement, your C-HR is a targeted model.
However, following significant investments, newly developed official Toyota security hardware components will be available very soon for your C-HR.
The exact timings of this security enhancement are still to be confirmed. We anticipate being able to advise Centres with full details before the end of April.
If you would like us to contact you when this enhancement will be available, please may you confirm that you are happy for us to contact you via email.
Thank you.
Yes please – contact me.
Hi Robert,
Thank you for confirming.
We have now processed this request so we will be in touch with more information when it becomes available.
Thank you.
Can you please tell me if my CHR is affected
R8***
THANKS
Hi Raymond,
Unfortunately, as per our latest statement, your C-HR is a targeted model.
However, following significant investments, newly developed official Toyota security hardware components will be available very soon for your C-HR.
The exact timings of this security enhancement are still to be confirmed. We anticipate being able to advise Centres with full details before the end of April.
If you would like us to contact you when this enhancement will be available, please may you confirm that you are happy for us to contact you via email.
Thank you.
Yes I am fine to be contacted via email
Thanks, we have sent you an email requesting further information.
I’m considering buying a Toyota RAV4 Adventure on a 22 plates. Models dating from October 2022 seem to benefit from enhanced security hardware. The enhanced security hardware will be available to older models but no further information will be available until April. So the only immediate action l could take is the protection plate which maybe chargeable. What is the availability of the plate and the cost? With the changes made in October 2022, am I correct in thinking the model l am considering is more vulnerable to theft. Also could you recommend a physical steering wheel lock to give me more security until a plate can be fitted and the enhanced security hardware made available.
Hi Terence,
Thank you for your questions and thank you for your interest in the RAV4.
Please may we take the vehicle registration of the RAV4 you are considering purchasing so we can best assist you with this query.
Thank you.
Thank you for your reply. The registration is AU22XHH. I look forward to your reply.
Hi Terence,
Thank you for providing the vehicle registration.
Unfortunately, as per our latest statement, this RAV4 is a targeted model.
However, following significant investments, newly developed official Toyota security hardware components will be available very soon to fit to these targeted models.
The exact timings of the security enhancement are still to be confirmed. We anticipate being able to advise Centres with full details before the end of April.
A Vehicle Protection Plate is also available for your RAV4, please contact your nearest Toyota Centre if you would like to have this fitted at a cost of £70.
We would recommend a Stoplock Pro Elite for your vehicle to provide an extra visual theft deterrent.
If you would like to be informed of when additional security enhancements will be available, please let us know.
Thank you.
My local Toyota dealer is having difficulty in getting the protection plates for my RAV4. Toyota GB seems to be saying they are available free of charge plus £70 for fitting. Why can’t my dealer get the plates? I’m happy to pay but want it done as soon as possible. With regard to the enhanced security hardware l would like to be kept informed of developments. Please help with the supply of the plates.
Hi Terence,
Thanks for your question.
Due to extremely high demand, we regret to inform you that the Vehicle Protection Plates are currently on back order.
Please be assured that we are working diligently to get these produced as quickly as possible.
We can only apologise for any frustration this delay causes.
Please let us know if you have any further questions.
Thanks.
I have a rav4 business edition 17 plate do I need to get this plate fitted in my car a
If so how much will it cost please
Hi Chris,
Thanks for your comment.
As your RAV4 was produced before April 2019, it does not have the technology that enables CAN bus thefts.
If you are of course concerned about the security of your car, then we would offer the usual guidance in terms of trying to protect your car.
For further advice on this, please take a look here – https://mag.toyota.co.uk/car-security-advice-and-tips/.
We hope this helps.
Thanks.
I have a 22 plate CHR GR Sport reg no. NL22FCX do I need to chase anything re security.
Hi Dorothy,
Unfortunately, as per our latest statement, your C-HR is a targeted model.
However, following significant investments, newly developed official Toyota security hardware components will be available very soon for your C-HR.
The exact timings of this security enhancement are still to be confirmed. We anticipate being able to advise Centres with full details before the end of April.
If you would like us to contact you when this enhancement will be available, please may you confirm that you are happy for us to contact you via email.
Thank you.
My Rav4 Excel was registered new in the UK in October 2022. It was manufactured in Japan.
The registration number is WK72VAH.
Is my vehicle at risk of the Canbus theft.
Many thanks
Hi Chris,
Thanks for your comment.
Unfortunately, as per our latest statement, your RAV4 is a targeted model.
However, following significant investments, newly developed official Toyota security hardware components will be available very soon to fit to these targeted models.
The exact timings of the security enhancement are still to be confirmed. We anticipate being able to advise Centres with full details before the end of April.
A Vehicle Protection Plate is also available for your RAV4, please contact your nearest Toyota Centre if you would like to have this fitted.
Thank you.