How do I protect my catalytic converter from theft?

Which cars are most likely to have catalytic converter stolen?

Is there a way to protect your catalytic converter?

A steel shield that fits over the catalytic converter, requiring time and extra tools to remove. Cages made of rebar or other high-strength steel that's difficult to cut. Stainless steel cables welded from the catalytic converter to the car's frame.

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 fast can thieves steal catalytic converters?

Thieves can remove a catalytic converter quickly, often in less than two minutes, so theft can even occur in broad daylight. The only tools a thief needs are a wrench (for converters that are bolted on) or a reciprocating saw (for converters that are welded in).

3 Ways To Prevent Catalytic Converter Theft

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.

What vehicles have the most valuable catalytic converters?

According to data from 2020, the most expensive catalytic converter belonged to the Ferrari F430, with a mind-popping $3,770.00 price tag. Moreover, the F430 needed two of them, so a full replacement would run car owners $7,540 before labor costs.

What happens to your car if someone steals your catalytic converter?

If your vehicle was manufactured within the last decade or so, having your catalytic converter stolen will cause a noticeable reduction in low-end torque. Low end torque is the torque available at lower RPM, which is better than high-end torque for everyday cars because we generally drive at lower RPMs.

Is a car drivable 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 much do stolen catalytic converters sell?

A catalytic converter stolen from some hybrid models can sell online for as much as $1,500 because it contains a larger amount of rhodium, which is resistant to corrosion and currently sells for more than $15,000 an ounce.

Does painting 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.

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

The cost to install a new converter can be as much as $2500 or more. That's an extra expense that no one wants to pay, which is why getting a catalytic converter shield installed is great way to protect your vehicle. A catalytic converter shield from Glenn's Auto Service is designed to stop thieves in their tracks.

What vehicles are the easiest to steal catalytic converters?

What is the most popular catalytic converter stolen?

What kind of cars do Thieves target for catalytic converter?

Best Covid-19 Travel Insurance Plans

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.

Why do catalytic converters get 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.

Why are Honda catalytic converters stolen?

Catalytic converters are often stolen because they are valuable to scrap metal dealers. These converters contain precious metals like rhodium and platinum.

How much does it cost to replace a stolen catalytic converter?

Catalytic converter replacement generally costs between $1,000-$3,000, according to the NICB. It doesn't take long for a thief with simple tools to snatch a catalytic converter, the NICB stated, and recyclers usually pay between $50-$250 for one.

Can you replace a stolen catalytic converter?

Costs for Replacing a Stolen Catalytic Converter

While the cost of the catalytic converter itself may not be that high, repairing the vehicle could end up being thousands depending on the damage caused by the thieves. The cost of the part and repair can also vary based on the year, make, and model of the vehicle.

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 are the most valuable catalytic converters to scrap?

How much is a Toyota catalytic converter worth scrap?

Toyota catalytic converters' worth can range from $75 and $700 when sold as scrap.

How does Honda Pilot prevent catalytic converter theft?

Etch the converter: Thieves will be deterred if you etch your license plate number or phone number on your catalytic converter. You may either get an etcher for roughly $20 and perform it yourself or hire a mechanic to do it for you.