How do I make sure nobody steals my catalytic converter?

Is there a way to lock your catalytic converter?

Install an anti-theft device.

These can include a steel shield that fits over the catalytic converter, a locking cable device that secures the converter to your car or a cage made of rebar or other high-strength steel that's difficult to cut.

What is the best deterrent for catalytic converter theft?

1. Park in a Garage. The only foolproof way to stop catalytic converter thieves at your home is to park inside a garage. They can't cut away and steal what they can't access.

Which cars are most likely to have 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.

Which cars are least likely to have catalytic converter 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.

3 Ways To Prevent Catalytic Converter Theft

What state has the highest catalytic converter theft?

Insurance company ranks California with highest catalytic converter thefts.

What are the top 10 most stolen catalytic converters?

Will insurance total my car if the catalytic converter is stolen?

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.

Does painting catalytic converter prevent theft?

Marking your catalytic converter with paint associates it with a jurisdiction and helps prevent theft. The markings also alert scrapyard and recycling businesses the catalytic converter may have been stolen, police add.

Can a car be driven if the catalytic converter is stolen?

The good news is, your car will run just fine without a catalytic converter. Because it filters exhaust and emissions, it doesn't really impact your vehicle's actual driving capabilities. However, due to environmental protection laws, you could face some hefty fines if you're caught driving a vehicle without one.

How much does it cost to install a catalytic converter shield?

Even though catalytic convertor shields will cost you about $200 to $500, it's a lot cheaper than getting a stolen catalytic converter replaced, which could run up to $2,000.

How do you park to make it hard to steal a catalytic converter?

Always park in well-lit areas when possible. If you have a personal garage, keep your car in the garage with the door closed when the vehicle is not in use. Park close to a building entrance or to the nearest access road when parking in a public lot.

Are cat shields worth it?

However, when considering the cost of replacing a catalytic converter and the effectiveness of catalytic converter shields, the investment is worthwhile. In short, catalytic converter shields work and protect your vehicle.

How can you tell if someone stole your catalytic converter?

How long can you drive with a missing catalytic converter?

How Long Can You Drive Without a Catalytic Converter? Since people remove catalytic converters all the time, you can essentially drive indefinitely without one. However, if the converter was stolen, you should contact your insurance company immediately because your policy might cover the cost of a new one.

What is the easiest car to steal a catalytic converter from?

The common consensus seems to be that the Prius, Tacoma, Lexus SUVs, and the Accord are some of the most targeted cars for catalytic converter theft. So if you own one of these, make sure your car is locked up safe and sound.

Who is number 1 for catalytic converter theft?

While analyzing claims of theft nationwide, State Farm found California at the top of the list with a whopping 10,577 catalytic converter thefts reported between July 2021 and June 2022. In comparison to other states, California has significantly more of these occurrences than the rest of the nation.

Are catalytic converter thefts on the rise?

Catalytic converter theft has skyrocketed over the past few years due to the rising cost precious metals contained in each device.

What are car companies doing about catalytic converter theft?

Decades of research have helped manufacturers use less precious metals in their design and have made them less susceptible to theft. Since the early 2000s, manufacturers have moved the location of the converters closer to the engine.

How can I protect my catalytic converter DIY?

The protection involves U-bolt exhaust clamps and cold weld epoxy, both items you can get at an automotive store. The idea is to put the stainless steel clamps around the pipe at the front or back end of the catalytic converter, making it much more difficult for a thief to cut it off.

How much does it cost to install cat security?

On average, between about $800 and around $1,200, depending on your vehicle's make and model, and that's only the value of the converter itself. (Parts and labor on catalytic converter repair or replacement can make it a lot more expensive for you.)

Do catalytic converter cages work?

Installing a cage onto the catalytic converter/exhaust system is a great idea and a great deterrent. However it will not prevent your catalytic converter from being stolen. It will slow the thief down, but it will not stop them, especially if your vehicle is parked in an unsecured area for any extended period of time.

Does parking backwards prevent catalytic converter theft?

Parking Tips

If possible put the rear of the car next to a wall. As the convertor is situated near the exhaust box, this will dissuade criminals from targeting your vehicle.

How do you make a car impossible to steal?

Does parking on a hill prevent catalytic converter theft?

Miller Cat Bonus Tip: For owners with vehicles with lower clearances (passenger cars), parking on hills, grass gravel or uneven surfaces can deter thieves from attempting to jack up your vehicle. If a thief cannot lift your vehicle, they won't be able to take your converter.