Is it worth reporting a stolen catalytic converter?

If you find your catalytic converter is missing, you should immediately contact the authorities. They will check local security cameras and work to see if they can help catch the person who stole your converter. Additionally, a police report may be essential to your insurance coverage.

What happens if my catalytic converter is stolen?

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. Your car might also make a sputtering sound as you change speed, or you'll notice it's not driving smoothly.

Will my insurance cover a 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.

Are catalytic converters worth stealing?

According to multiple sources, money is the main motivation for people stealing catalytic converters. According to NJ.com, they have precious metals like platinum and rhodium in them that have value on the black market. Cars.com also mention that the devices have palladium.

Which cars are most likely to have catalytic converter stolen?

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.

Understanding the wave of catalytic converter thefts

What year cars are targeted for catalytic converter theft?

While it's a no-brainer that we can expect the most popular models of cars and trucks to be prime targets for catalytic converter theft. According to a recent CarFax post, nationwide, 10 popular targets are: 1. 1985-2021 Ford F-Series pickup trucks (F-150, F-250, etc.)

How do I stop thieves from stealing my catalytic converter?

How much do stolen catalytic converters sell for?

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.

Why do Thieves take catalytic converters?

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.

How much do thieves get for catalytic converters?

Thieves can make anywhere from $25 to $300 for a standard catalytic converter, and ones from hybrid vehicles can sell for up to $1,400. These parts are also relatively easy to access from under the vehicle.

How long can you drive 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. It's not always a good idea to drive around without one, even if it works.

How do people steal catalytic converters?

How Do Thieves Take Them? 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.

How loud is a car without a catalytic converter?

Loud Vehicle Noises and Missing Catalytic Converter

You will find that when driving without your catalytic converter, it will sound like your vehicle is roaring—especially when starting or giving it gas.

Can you drive your car without a catalytic converter?

Avoid the temptation just to drive your ride home or to the nearest repair centre. Without the converter in place, the rest of the exhaust system may not be secure and you run the risk of doing more damage if a loose exhaust pipe digs into the road. Your best bet is to call your roadside assistance provider.

Which cars are least likely to have 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.

How much is an old catalytic converter worth?

Catalytic converters' scrap prices range drastically, from just $25 for an aftermarket cat all the way to $1100 for large and rare models.

Why are Toyota catalytic converters stolen?

Currently, Prius is being targeted because catalytic converters of hybrids need more of the precious metals to work properly because they don't get as hot as those installed on conventional vehicles, since the combustion engines of hybrids only run part of the time.

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 part of the catalytic converter is worth money?

Small amounts of rhodium are also found within a catalytic converter. Rhodium, like platinum and palladium, is very rare and valuable. Even though the monolith is the most valuable part, recyclers are almost always buying the full converter and extract the ceramic themself in order to avoid depreciation or fraud.

Does Geico cover stolen catalytic converters?

Is catalytic converter theft covered by GEICO insurance? If you have comprehensive coverage, GEICO will reimburse you for replacement of your catalytic converter and repair any related damage from its removal. GEICO explicitly states that their comprehensive coverage covers theft and vandalism.

Why is a catalytic converter so valuable?

Why are catalytic converters becoming an endangered species? Because they contain three valuable metals - platinum, palladium, and rhodium - making them worth hundreds, even thousands of dollars, stolen or not. It's the rhodium thieves are after. It's very rare, very expensive and has some strange properties.

What is the most popular catalytic converter stolen?

What states require catalytic converters?

California became the first state to require the use of CARB-compliant catalytic converters on January 1, 2009. In subsequent years, other states including New York (6/1/2013) and Maine (6/1/2018) mandated the use of CARB-compliant converters for certain model year vehicles.