If your Catalytic Converter has been replaced with an aftermarket Catalytic Converter within the past few years, there is a good chance it won't be stolen. The new aftermarket Catalytic Converters don't have as much of the precious metals, so thieves typically don't take them.

Which cars are most likely to have catalytic converter stolen?

These are the 10 models most targeted by catalytic converter thieves in the U.S., according to the company that tracks vehicle history.

• 1985-2021 Ford F-Series pickup trucks.
• 1989-2020 Honda Accord.
• 2007-17 Jeep Patriot.
• 1990-2022 Ford Econoline vans.
• 1999-2021 Chevrolet Silverado pickup trucks.
• 2005-21 Chevrolet Equinox.

Which catalytic converters do thieves steal?

The Toyota Prius is the most targeted car for catalytic converter theft. As a low-emissions vehicle, Prius converters contain larger amounts of the precious metals platinum, rhodium, and palladium. Thieves can fetch as much as $700 per converter from unscrupulous scrap yards.

How do I stop thieves from stealing my catalytic converter?

Thieves target catalytic converters because they contain precious metals.
...
Three ways to protect against catalytic converter theft

1. Etch your license plate number onto your catalytic converter. This makes the part identifiable to law enforcement. ...
2. Park in well-lit areas. ...
3. Install an anti-theft device.

Which cars are least likely to have catalytic converters stolen?

American brands such as Ford, Chevy, Jeep, Dodge, and Chrysler tend to have less valuable catalytic converters and are therefore less likely to get stolen. Some Nissan, Hyundai, Mazda, and Subaru models also fall into this category. Many brands used cat designs that limited how many precious metals were inside.

Understanding the wave of catalytic converter thefts

Does insurance cover stolen catalytic converters?

Is a stolen catalytic converter covered by insurance? If you have comprehensive coverage on your auto insurance policy, then you're typically covered against catalytic converter theft. Comprehensive coverage will typically pay to replace the stolen catalytic converter and repair any related damage from its removal.

Are aftermarket catalytic converters worth anything?

money. An aftermarket catalytic converter can save you over 80% on the price of a new one, costing less than $200, and sometimes as low as $60. However, there are significant downsides in purchasing aftermarket, and you should be aware of them before making your decision.

What vehicles have the most valuable catalytic converters?

According to data from 2020, the most expensive catalytic converter belonged to the Ferrari F430, with a mind-popping $3,770.00 price tag. Moreover, the F430 needed two of them, so a full replacement would run car owners $7,540 before labor costs.

How much is a stolen catalytic converter worth?

Thieves can make anywhere from $25 to $300 for a standard catalytic converter, and ones from hybrid vehicles can sell for up to $1,400. These parts are also relatively easy to access from under the vehicle.

Is there a way to protect your catalytic converter?

A steel shield that fits over the catalytic converter, requiring time and extra tools to remove. Cages made of rebar or other high-strength steel that's difficult to cut. Stainless steel cables welded from the catalytic converter to the car's frame.

Why are Honda catalytic converters stolen?

Catalytic converters are often stolen because they are valuable to scrap metal dealers. These converters contain precious metals like rhodium and platinum.

What happens if my catalytic converter is stolen?

When the catalytic converter has been removed, your vehicle will make a loud roaring sound that'll get louder as you push the gas pedal. Your car might also make a sputtering sound as you change speed, or you'll notice it's not driving smoothly.

How much do criminals get for a catalytic converter?

Thieves, on average, can earn $200 per catalytic converter — about 1/10th of what it costs to replace a stolen one. And thefts happen quickly, usually taking only a minute or two.

How long can you drive without a catalytic converter?

As part of a car's exhaust system, the catalytic converter helps to reduce air pollution. You will not harm your engine or your car in any way by driving without a catalytic converter. It's not always a good idea to drive around without one, even if it works.

How can I get the most money out of my catalytic converter?

In short, scrap yards are your best bet for selling your catalytic converter because they will focus on the value of the metals in your cat, not your cat as an auto part.

How much is a catalytic converter worth on the black market?

According to The Pew Charitable Trusts, a global non-profit organization with a focus in public policy, criminals typically sell stolen catalytic converters for $50-$500 to internet buyers or scrapyards.

How do I know if my catalytic converter was stolen?

The following are 6 signs of a stolen catalytic converter:

1. 1) Your Vehicle is Very Loud.
2. 2) Your Check Engine Light is On.
3. 3) You Are Getting a Headache When Your Windows are Down.
4. 4) Less Low-End Torque.
5. 5) You Have a Truck, Delivery Vehicle, or a Toyota Prius.
6. 6) Components Are Missing Under Your Vehicle.

Are aftermarket catalytic converters legal?

Aftermarket catalytic converters must be exempted from California's anti-tampering laws in order to be legally sold and installed in the state.

Why are aftermarket catalytic converters worth less?

Since the Aftermarket Catalytic Converters are not held to high warranty standards like OEM converters, the Aftermarket Manufacturers save costs by using less precious metals. Because less precious metals are applied to the converter, there is less filtration of toxic compounds from the vehicle's engine.

Do aftermarket catalytic converters have platinum?

Catalytic converters are made up of a variety of metals, but most commonly include palladium, rhodium, and platinum.

How much does it cost to replace a catalytic converter?

Catalytic converter replacement isn't cheap. For most vehicles, the average cost of a catalytic converter repair is between $945 and $2475 including parts and labor. The catalytic converter cost itself can be up to $2250 of that. That might be close to your car's value or more!

Will Geico cover stolen catalytic converter?

Is catalytic converter theft covered by GEICO insurance? If you have comprehensive coverage, GEICO will reimburse you for replacement of your catalytic converter and repair any related damage from its removal. GEICO explicitly states that their comprehensive coverage covers theft and vandalism.

Why do thieves target catalytic converters?

Thieves target catalytic converters because of the value of the metals found inside the devices. Catalytic converters are typically made up of three precious metals: platinum, palladium and rhodium. The value of all three metals have risen sharply in price in the last decade.

How long does it take to replace a stolen catalytic converter?

Experienced thieves can remove a catalytic converter in one to two minutes using basic tools. What can net a thief hundreds of dollars at a scrapyard or recycler can then cost you thousands of dollars to replace, depending on the make and model of your vehicle.