Toyota says it has already introduced “advanced protective measures” across its model range to help combat the scourge of vehicle thefts, but it has stopped short of detailing just what those measures are.
“Toyota is committed to continuously improving vehicle security and has progressively introduced advanced protective measures across its range,” the company said in a release.
“In 2025, Toyota took further steps to enhance security on several models, including the New HiLux, LandCruiser 300 and LandCruiser Prado providing owners with even greater peace of mind,” it added, without providing specific information on security enhancements – perhaps not to give prospective thieves any useful information.
Owners of existing vehicles can’t take advantage of the enhancements that Toyota has made as they aren’t available as, for example, over-the-air software updates.
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For now, it’s just the latest generation of HiLux, LandCruiser 300 Series and Prado that have received security improvements, but Toyota says it plans to roll out changes to other models.
Toyota says it’s also developing new factory-approved accessories, including an additional immobiliser, to help combat the issue. The company says further updates will be announced “as soon as possible”.
It has yet to announce whether these accessories will be compatible with all of its vehicles, or just ones that have received the so-called “advanced protective measures”.
For owners of existing vehicles that have been the victims of theft, Toyota Australia is developing a prioritisation system to ensure they can receive replacement vehicles as soon as possible, instead of being stuck in a long queue behind other customers.
Toyota Australia is calling for the banning of devices used for thefts of its vehicles, and for the regulation of legitimate devices used by locksmiths, mechanics and other automotive professionals.
Working with police in Victoria and Queensland, Toyota has identified which devices are being used by thieves and has made security enhancements to counter their effectiveness.
The Queensland Police Service has confirmed it has made seven arrests and laid down 380 charges following a spate of thefts across Brisbane late last year.
These involved an alleged car theft syndicate that targeted LandCruisers and Prados, stealing 60 vehicles worth approximately $8 million to export overseas to destinations including the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
According to authorities, the stolen vehicles were accessed via the CAN bus port, allowing thieves to take control of the vehicles and disable Toyota’s satellite tracking device.
On December 2, 2025, two allegedly stolen vehicles were observed by police entering a Rocklea wrecking yard. Police subsequently located a shipping container housing two stolen LandCruisers, concealed behind a facade of car parts.
Subsequently, shipping containers were located and seized in Brisbane and in Melbourne containing multiple stolen vehicles.
MORE: More arrests made following Toyota LandCruiser and Prado theft spree
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