Why are people stealing them? 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.

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.

What do thieves do with stolen catalytic?

So why are catalytic converters a hot item for thieves? "These catalytic converters are stolen off of vehicles and they're taken to recycling locations where they're turned in for money," explained Raquel Zick, Santa Barbara County Sheriff's Office Public Information Officer.

Do thieves want catalytic converters?

Thieves target catalytic converters because they contain precious metals. Catalytic converters are vulnerable because they're quick and easy to steal. Catalytic converters are expensive to replace.

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.

Understanding the wave of catalytic converter thefts

What are catalytic converters worth?

The average catalytic converter ranges between $800 and $1,200, depending on the vehicle's make and model. In general, the larger the engine, the more expensive the converter. Keep in mind that these prices only include the cost of the converter unit itself.

Why are catalytic converters worth so much?

Catalytic converters have economic value as they contain precious metals. This is the main reason why they are sold as the most expensive scrap. Because it contains rhodium, palladium and platinum, which are among the most precious metals.

Can a car run 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.

How do you keep thieves from stealing your catalytic converter?

Anti-theft solutions can be pricey, but they often cost less than a new catalytic converter. Secure parking: Park overnight in a locked garage, or in a well-lit, enclosed lot if you can. If you're parking in a driveway, consider installing motion sensor lights.

What year cars are targeted for catalytic converter theft?

While it's a no-brainer that we can expect the most popular models of cars and trucks to be prime targets for catalytic converter theft. According to a recent CarFax post, nationwide, 10 popular targets are: 1. 1985-2021 Ford F-Series pickup trucks (F-150, F-250, etc.)

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.

How easy is it to steal a catalytic converter?

Unfortunately, stealing a catalytic converter is very easy to do. Thieves usually slide underneath a car with a battery-powered reciprocating saw and cut it right out of the exhaust line. It takes about 2 to 3 minutes and makes as much noise as any other power tool.

Why are so many catalytic converters being stolen?

Why are people stealing them? 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 can I tell if my catalytic converter has been stolen?

How to tell if your catalytic converter has been stolen

1. Loud roar when you start the car, louder as you accelerate.
2. Increase in exhaust fumes, or unusual exhaust smells.
3. Missing parts under vehicle leading to muffler.
4. Uneven or sputtering acceleration due to lack of exhaust regulation.

Can I replace my catalytic converter with a straight pipe?

The short answer is yes you can.

If you install a straight pipe, often called a test pipe, you will fail all emissions tests or smog checks.

How much gold is in a catalytic converter?

Catalytic converters contain Platinum, Rhodium and Palladium. However, there is no gold in catalytic converters.

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.

What catalytic converters are worth the most scrap?

What catalytic converters are worth the most for scrap?

• Ferrari F430 (4,500 $ per catalytic converter)
• Lamborghini Aventador (3,700 $ per catalytic converter)
• Dodge Ram 2500 ($4,100)
• Ford F250 (3,300 $)
• Ford Mustang (1,800 $)

Is an old catalytic converter worth anything?

Are your old catalytic converters worth money? Yes, they are! Indeed, they contain some precious metals that are rare and valuable. Thus, consider recycling them instead of throwing them away!

How much is a Ford catalytic converter worth in scrap?

For a Ford catalytic converter scrap, you can get about from 50 USD. This will save some investment оf your repair costs.

Why are Toyota catalytic converters stolen?

Currently, Prius is being targeted because catalytic converters of hybrids need more of the precious metals to work properly because they don't get as hot as those installed on conventional vehicles, since the combustion engines of hybrids only run part of the time.

Which cars are least likely to have their 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.

Do Thieves Steal aftermarket catalytic converters?

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.

What is the most popular catalytic converter stolen?

The 10 Cars Catalytic Converter Thieves Target Most

• of 12. 2001–2021 Toyota Prius. The Toyota Prius, particularly the second-gen model produced from 2004 to 2009, is especially attractive when it comes to catalytic converter theft. ...
• of 12. 2011–2017 Chrysler 200. ...
• of 12.

What kind of cars do Thieves target for catalytic converter?

Carfax data shows that the Ford F-Series trucks that sit atop the national list for converter theft (their high ground clearance makes them especially easy to purloin in this regard) are the most targeted models in all parts of the country except western U.S. states.