Are Prius easy to steal?

A new report out from the Highway Loss Data Institute (HLDI) shows that the second-generation Toyota Prius is 40 times more likely to be subject to theft claims than the average vehicle. The theft isn't necessarily the entire vehicle, but one particular part of it, the catalytic converter.

Can a Prius be easily stolen?

Theft claim frequency was 58.1 claims per 1,000 insured vehicle years for 2004–09 Toyota Prius models in 2020, compared with 1.4 claims in 2016. Overall theft losses for those Prius vehicles in 2020 were nearly $137 per insured vehicle year — a more than 45-fold increase from $3 in 2016, HLDI found.

Can you steal a Prius without the key?

Without the key in the car, the vehicle cannot be operated – both the engine and steering wheel are locked. In fact, the only recorded thefts of the Prius are by people who either left their keys in the car or out in the open.

Why are Prius cars being 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.

How do I keep my Prius catalytic converter from being stolen?

As a Prius owner, the best protection is to make it as difficult as possible to steal your catalytic converter by installing a physical anti-theft device. Catalytic converter anti-theft devices come in two basic forms: Cat Shields / protection plates and Cat Locks / Cat Clamps.

CCTV Catches Catalytic Theft From Toyota Prius In Broad Day Light

How do I stop my Prius catalytic converter from being stolen?

Do hybrid cars get stolen?

The theft rate for Prius models from that era was more than 40 times higher in 2020 than in 2016, with theft losses about 45 times higher per insured vehicle year, noted the Highway Loss Data Institute this past week.

What cars are most targeted for catalytic converter theft?

How far will a Prius go without the key?

So the Prius can go at least 40 miles without a key fob, as long as the engine is already running when the key leaves the vehicle.

What is the most stolen car in 2021?

Why are Prius targets for catalytic converter theft?

A spike in demand for precious metals used in making catalytic converters - emission control devices — has made Toyota Prius vehicles that are more than 10 years old unlikely targets of thieves. The frequency of theft claims for 2004-09 Prius models was more than 40 times higher in 2020 than in 2016.

How much is a Prius catalytic converter worth scrap?

The recent scrap price for the GD3+EA6 catalytic converter used in the 2004-09 second-generation Prius 1.5 was $1,022, according to marketplace website AutoCatalystMarket.com, while the scrap price for the GP1+TB1 converter used in the 2010-15 third-generation Prius was $548.

Why do thieves target Prius catalytic converters?

Car experts say since the Prius is a hybrid, the catalytic converter corrodes less than on other cars, keeping the precious metal coating in better shape. It's also one of the most expensive to replace, costing between $2700 and $4100. Thieves steal catalytic converters to get the precious metals rhodium and platinum.

Are hybrid cars harder to steal?

In addition, while it seems Prius Hybrids are less likely to be stolen than other cars, they are more likely than other cars to be recovered too. During that same twelve year span, 2359 of the 2439 Prius Hybrids stolen were recovered and returned to their owners—astonishingly, that's 96.7%.

Which cars are least likely to be stolen?

A study by the Highway Loss Data Institute found that the BMW 3 Series was the least-stolen car in the United States.

How do I know if my Prius catalytic converter is stolen?

Will Prius lock with key inside?

Tundra...all Toyotas in the 2003 to 2010 time frame is it not possible to lock your keys in the car. If the drivers seat is unoccupied the locks will not engage. It is the same thing as wanting to lock your car and warm it up before you get in... no can do.

How much is a Prius battery?

It can cost between $2,200 and $4,100 to replace a Toyota Prius battery. When you're breaking down the price, keep in mind that even a used Prius battery costs around $1,500. Once you factor in labor costs and additional fees from your mechanic, you'll be looking at a much higher bill.

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 much is a catalytic converter Prius?

The average cost for a Toyota Prius catalytic converter replacement is between $2,161 and $2,193. Labor costs are estimated between $109 and $138 while parts are priced between $2,052 and $2,055. This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your specific model year or unique location.

Can I drive my car if the catalytic converter has been stolen?

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.