Do Thieves steal older catalytic converters?

Catalytic converter theft continues to rise nationwide. Thieves can steal this antipollution device in minutes, sell it to scrap metal dealers and receive hundreds of dollars for the precious metals it contains.

Do thieves steal catalytic converters from old cars?

Catalytic converter theft has exploded – jumping more than 1,000% in just a few years. Thieves are removing catalytic converters from vehicles large and small, cutting them away from beneath the vehicle.

Is it easier to steal catalytic converters from older cars?

So the metals in their catalytic converters tend to last longer. For the same reason, newer cars are at greater risk than older cars. Thieves also target cars they can easily get under quickly. So, police reports show that trucks and SUVs are at particular risk.

What car is most likely to have its catalytic converter stolen?

Hybrid cars like the Toyota Prius have higher standards for cleaning emissions, so their converters are more expensive and are primarily targeted by thieves. Older rides produced after 1974 also have more metals inside their catalytic converters, and luxury models like Lamborghinis and Ferraris.

Are newer catalytic converters harder to steal?

Catalytic converters are inside the engine compartment of newer cars like Honda's 2015 Accord and Jazz models, making it more difficult for thieves to steal them.

Catalytic converter thief run over by car he attempted to steal from: Sheriff's Department

How do I make sure nobody steals my catalytic converter?

What is the easiest catalytic converter to steal?

Why do catalytic converter thieves target the Prius? The most common factor thieves employ when deciding which car to target is the ease of detaching the catalytic converter from the exhaust system. And it seems the Toyota Prius is the most preferred vehicle for car thieves.

Why are older cars targeted for catalytic converter theft?

Criminals target catalytic converters because they contain expensive precious metals like rhodium, platinum and palladium. Thieves can expect to get anywhere from $50 to $300 if they sell the converters to scrapyards, which then sell them to recycling facilities to reclaim the precious metals inside.

How long does it take to steal a catalytic converter?

Stealing a converter takes just a few minutes and a battery-operated saw. "You slide under the car, slice through your exhaust system, and you're in and out usually within 30 seconds to a minute," Glawe said.

Can a car run without a catalytic converter?

Technically, a car can function without a catalytic converter. However, this is not a sustainable long-term option.

What state has the highest catalytic converter theft?

Insurance company ranks California with highest catalytic converter thefts.

Why are older catalytic converters worth more?

As time progressed and environmental standards got stricter, the average recycled catalytic converter prices increased dramatically due to higher loading of precious metals. In addition, the price of platinum, palladium, and rhodium skyrocketed in the late 90's and early part of the 2000's.

Are older catalytic converters more valuable?

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!

Does insurance cover stolen catalytic converter?

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 do I know if someone tried to steal my catalytic converter?

You may not be able to tell your catalytic converter was stolen by looking at your car, but you'll know as soon as you start the engine. 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.

Which cars have the most valuable catalytic converters?

How fast do thieves steal catalytic converters?

Catalytic converter theft is also common because the component is mounted beneath the vehicle, making it easily accessible to thieves. With the proper tools, thieves can remove a catalytic converter in less than two minutes and profit handsomely by reselling it.

Does spray painting your catalytic converter prevent theft?

By adding bright paint, you can create a visible deterrent to alert thieves to move on. This paint also signals law enforcement and recyclers to look deeper for serial numbers or identification marks. By clearly marking your catalytic converter you will be deterring the theft from happening in the first place.

Will check engine light come on if catalytic converter is stolen?

Check Engine Warning

The first time that you start your automobile after the catalytic converter has been stolen the check engine light will turn on. It will remain on until you replace the catalytic converter and repair any exhaust system damage.

Why do people buy old catalytic converters?

They reduce harmful emissions and improve your car's performance. They also provide valuable precious metals to recycle from scrap. Are you ready to know how much your catalytic converter scrap is worth? Book now to get started, or contact us if you have questions!

What do people do with old catalytic converters?

The safest and most effective way of recycling catalytic converts is to take them to a scrap metal yard/metal recycling provider or arrange for collection.

What happens to old catalytic converters?

Take catalytic converters to a scrap metal yard/metal recycling provider. Or you can arrange for collection from your home. We deem this is the safest and most effective way to recycle them.

How much platinum is in an old catalytic converter?

Although the quantities vary by model, on average, only one standard catalytic converter contains about 3-7 grams of platinum, 2-7 grams of palladium, 1-2 grams rhodium.

What is an old catalytic converter worth?

What is the average scrap value of a catalytic converter? Since precious metals are used to make it, this part is one of the most expensive parts of a car. Most catalytic converters are worth between $300 and $1,500 as scrap metal.

What types of catalytic converters are being stolen?

They have been a federally mandated requirement on every new vehicle since 1975. According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB), catalytic converter theft has spiked dramatically due to three precious metals found inside them: palladium, rhodium, and platinum.