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.

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.

What cars are most targeted for catalytic converter theft?

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.

How do I stop thieves from stealing my catalytic converter?

Is stealing a catalytic converter easy?

Unfortunately, stealing a catalytic converter is very easy to do. Thieves usually slide underneath a car with a battery-powered reciprocating saw and cut it right out of the exhaust line. It takes about 2 to 3 minutes and makes as much noise as any other power tool.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 is the hardest car to steal a catalytic converter from?

What 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.

Which state has the most catalytic converter theft?

California is coming in at number one with the highest amount of catalytic converter thefts across the country according to a new report.

How much do thieves get for a catalytic converter?

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.

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 are people suddenly stealing catalytic converters?

The three precious metals that are commonly used in catalytic converters — platinum, palladium and rhodium — sell for high prices, making them an appealing target for theft. Platinum sold for about $1,100 per ounce in 2021, and palladium sold for nearly $2,400 per ounce in 2021, according to cars.com.

What are thieves after when they steal catalytic converters?

Reported catalytic converter thefts increased by 325% between 2019 and 2020. The reason for stolen converters is the explanation behind any theft — money. The rhodium, palladium and platinum used in these parts are valuable, and rhodium can go for $20,000 per ounce, according to the National Insurance Crime Bureau.

How do thieves steal catalytic converters so fast?

"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. Especially at risk are cars with enough tire clearance for a thief to easily slide underneath, like SUVs and pickup trucks.

Will skid plate prevent catalytic converter theft?

The catalytic converter skid plate helps prevent damage to your catalytic converter while adventuring and helps to deter theft.

Do cages prevent catalytic converter theft?

A catalytic converter cage is an effective anti-theft device. It consists of two clamps and a long, heavy-gauge stainless-steel cable.

Where do stolen catalytic converters go?

Stealing a catalytic converter is easy: Thieves slide under the car and slice through the exhaust system using a battery-powered saw in 30 seconds to a minute, Glawe says. They then sell the part to a scrap metal yard for between $150 to $300.

Do thieves target older cars for catalytic converters?

Catalytic converters have been federally required as an emissions-control device since 1975 for most non-commercial vehicles. As these lists demonstrate, thieves target a wide variety of models, regardless of the size of the vehicle, its age, or the automaker's home country.

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.

What does a car sound like without catalytic converter?

You'll notice a loud rumbling or roaring sound when you turn on the engine if your catalytic converter is missing. This sound gets louder when you hit the gas. The exhaust is not working correctly, so the vehicle also drives rougher than usual, often with a sense of sputtering as you change speed.

Can I drive my car to the garage without a catalytic converter?

It's not illegal in itself to drive a car without a catalytic converter. However if you are stopped by the police you run the risk of being prosecuted for your car producing harmful emissions. Your car would also fail its MoT.

Can you drive long distance without catalytic converter?

It is illegal to drive a car without a catalytic converter in all states. In fact, doing so could cost you several hundred to thousand dollars in fines. California for example, has very strict laws regarding vehicle emissions. Caught driving without a converter in California will cost you a $1,000 dollars in fines.