How much is a stolen catalytic converter worth?

A stolen catalytic converter can generate $25 to $500, according to a 2021 report by the Congressional Research Service, and could cost an owner $3,000 to replace the part.

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 much do thieves make on catalytic converters?

Catalytic converter thieves can see returns of around $150 to $1500 for a catalytic converter, depending on the type of catalytic converter stolen. Scrap yards will buy them and have their metals recovered to sell again. Their location on the underside of vehicles can make them convenient to steal quickly.

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.

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.

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

What metal in a catalytic converter is worth the most?

"It's platinum, palladium, and rhodium. You have platinum for around $800 or $900 dollars an ounce. You have palladium for around $2,200 an ounce.

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.

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.

How do you prove a catalytic converter is stolen?

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.

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.

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.

What do people do with catalytic converters after they steal them?

Rhodium could sell for an average of $18,000 per ounce in 2021, at one point during the year selling for as much as $26,000. When a catalytic converter is stolen, these precious metals can be recovered and sold. There are some companies that will purchase converters and pay anywhere from $140 to $1,500.

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.

Why are Toyota catalytic converters stolen?

Because it's a hybrid vehicle, mechanics say Priuses are targets because their catalytic converters contain more unused precious metals. Shields and etching a VIN number on the catalytic converter can be deterrents to theft, but no guarantee.

Why are Honda catalytic converters stolen?

They're found on the underside of the car and can be removed within minutes with a metal-cutting tool. Criminals target catalytic converters because they contain expensive precious metals like rhodium, platinum and palladium.

How do thieves sell stolen catalytic converters?

Thieves steal these devices and sell them on the black market where they are later harvested for their precious metals at illegal processing facilities. The cost to replace a catalytic converter ranges between $500 and $4,000 depending on factors such as the type of vehicle you own and your insurance coverage.

What does your car sound like if the catalytic converter is stolen?

When the catalytic converter has been removed, your vehicle will make a loud roaring sound then the car is on and it gets even louder as you push the gas pedal. Your car might also make a sputtering sound as you change speed, or you'll notice it's not driving smoothly.

Does car sound different if catalytic converter is missing?

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

Will driving without a catalytic converter damage the engine?

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 gold is in a catalytic converter?

Catalytic converters contain Platinum, Rhodium and Palladium. However, there is no gold in catalytic converters.

Where can I find rhodium?

Rhodium is found in platinum or nickel ores with the other members of the platinum group metals. It was discovered in 1803 by William Hyde Wollaston in one such ore, and named for the rose color of one of its chlorine compounds.

Can I replace my catalytic converter with a straight pipe?

Just remove the catalytic converter and replace it with a straight pipe, but it is illegal. You don't, unless you're willing to break the law. A catalytic converter is a primary part of your car's smog control system, which cannot be legally removed.

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.