Toyota, Holden, Subaru thefts rise massively in this Australian state

Victoria Police has detailed the grim reality of the state’s car theft crisis, with thieves targeting vehicles from some of Australia’s most popular brands.

In the 12 months prior to September 2024, 25,773 vehicles were stolen in Victoria – a significant increase of 6408 vehicles (or 33 per cent) over the previous 12 months, and an unwanted record for the state.

According to Victoria Police, vehicles made by Subaru, Holden and Toyota have seen the sharpest increase in thefts, increasing by as much as 108 per cent to January 2025 compared to the 12 months prior.

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Victoria Police noted the changing habits of car thieves, with data showing one in five vehicles are stolen without their keys.

Instead, thieves are using an OBD-reading tool intended for mechanics and locksmiths to disable a car’s alarm, delete the original keys paired to the car and then pair a new set of keys, with the only physical requirements for criminals being hacking into the front bumper, disabling the horn and unlocking a door.

This method has been extensively reported on by CarExpert, particularly relating to the sharp increase in thefts of VF Commodores.

While some stolen Commodores are being used to joyride, others are being rebirthed, in which certain identifying features from multiple cars – such as its Vehicle Identification Numbers (VIN) and chassis numbers – are being transferred to pass them off as another vehicle.

In a media statement, Victoria Police urged owners of these targeted vehicles to install preventative measures such as an OBD port lock.

As previously reported, temporary deterrents to theft include mechanical devices such as Club Locks and Cop Locks, while a PIN-coded immobiliser and relocated horn could also help reduce the likelihood of your car being stolen.

Victoria Police has also advised owners to park their vehicles off the street and ensure their vehicles are locked.

Worryingly, Victoria Police warned that “without technological remedies or target hardening measures, such as the installation of on board diagnostic port locks, it’s anticipated the number of car thefts will continue to increase locally”.

“Modern day cars are akin to computers on wheels and while this comes with plenty of benefits, it also creates opportunity for offenders,” said Detective Inspector Julie MacDonald of the Victoria Police Vehicle Crime Squad.

“Vehicle immobilisers were a technology facilitated solution at the turn of the century – the emergence of key programming devices are proving to be a technology facilitated problem.

“It was considered impossible to steal a car this way as little as two years ago. However, offenders are now using these devices like a modern-day screwdriver to steal cars.

“We strongly encourage owners of impacted cars to consider all possible methods to improve their vehicle’s security – there are a range of auto shops and websites that stock these anti-theft products, and staff can assist with advising you on what will best suit your vehicle.

“Vehicle owners can also speak with manufacturers or their insurance agents for further advice.”

Last month, CarExpert contacted former Holden parent company General Motors regarding the usage of the OBD tool to steal Commodores.

“GMANZ is aware of reports of vehicle thefts where offenders are misusing an aftermarket locksmith’s tool sold for general vehicle use,” a General Motors spokesperson told CarExpert.

“The purchase of this tool is currently unregulated.”

You can watch and read more of our coverage below.

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