The catalytic converter is designed to convert exhaust gases into less harmful substances. Because this car part contains valuable metals, it is often the target of thieves. By learning how to protect your car against catalytic converter theft, you can save yourself a lot of money and hassle.
In this guide, we cover the reasons why people steal catalytic converters. We also look for ways to prevent this from happening and present the steps you should take if you are a victim of this crime.
3 Ways to Avoid Catalytic Converter Theft
Park the vehicle in a well-lit area
You don’t want your vehicle to be an easy target. Most thieves don’t want to do anything that catches their eye, especially if there are other vehicles that would be easier to steal from.
Most robberies will occur at night when there is less light. To avoid this, you want to park in a well-lit area so the vehicle can be seen more easily. Even better, if you can park in a place with security cameras focused on the vehicle, it will further deter would-be thieves.
Record the license plate number on the converter
By engraving your license plate number on the catalytic converter, you make the stolen part identifiable to law enforcement agencies. Hopefully, if the thief sees the license plate engraved on the converter, he will avoid it altogether.
In some regions, you can participate in a local engraving event. Contact your local auto shop to see if the police sponsor any events near you.
Add an anti-theft device
Paying attention to where you park the vehicle and recording its license plate number on the catalytic converter will deter thieves, but none of them will prevent the part from slipping out of your vehicle. The only way to do this is to install an anti-theft product.
You may have a metal shield bolted to the frame of your vehicle that covers the catalytic converter. In total, you could spend $250 to $500 for this shield. You can also find shields or caged designs that work the same way.
Plus, you can buy the same products for around $100 online and put it on at home. To install it, you just need to drill a few holes in the frame and fix it with the included fasteners. However, you will need to lift the vehicle to pass underneath.
One brand that sells them and that we hear a lot about is Catshield Anti Theft. You can check if they have one ready for your car model. We receive a small commission if you buy one through our link. You can use coupon code MECHANICBASE to get 5% off your purchase.
Why are catalytic converters stolen?
Catalytic converters are made from a variety of precious metals. These converters contain palladium, rhodium, and platinum to create a chemical reaction that changes dangerous exhaust gases. They can earn a few hundred dollars by taking the catalytic converter to certain auto repair shops or recyclers.
The theft of catalytic converters is not a new phenomenon. Still, there seems to be an increase in this crime lately due to the economic insecurity created by the pandemic. Since people still spend a lot of time indoors, there are also fewer people to witness the event, making it easier to perform.
In addition, the catalytic converter is not difficult to remove with tools. In total, the offender may only need a few minutes to disconnect the converter. However, stealing the converter is also a crime and can be punishable by law.
Some cars seem more susceptible to catalytic converter theft than others. For example, the Toyota Prius has a catalytic converter that stays in better shape thanks to the hybrid powertrain, making it worth more money. Also, pickups and SUVs tend to fall victim, because of how easy it is to get under the vehicle.
Catalytic converter replacement cost
Replacing a catalytic converter can cost between $800 and $2500. The pieces alone can make up the bulk of that bill, as it is a very expensive pieces. It’s not labor that drives up the cost.
On the plus side, you may be able to get your insurance provider to pay for the new catalytic converter. The full coverage policy includes liability and collision and full usually covers these stolen parts. You will have full coverage if you have an existing car loan or lease.