What states are catalytic converters stolen?

Which cars are most likely to have their catalytic converters 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.

What states have the catalytic converter theft ring?

The DOJ says that it has made 21 arrests in five states and notes that it's made “arrests, searches, and seizures” in the following states: California, Oklahoma, Wyoming, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, Nevada, North Carolina, and Virginia.

What are the easiest catalytic converters to steal?

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.

Understanding the wave of catalytic converter thefts

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.

How can I stop someone from stealing my catalytic converter?

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.

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 do thieves remove catalytic converters so fast?

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.

Can you drive without 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 much do thieves get for stolen catalytic converters?

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 state has the most catalytic converters stolen?

In comparison to other states, California has significantly more of these occurrences than the rest of the nation.

Which cars have the most valuable catalytic converters?

Do cat shields work?

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 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.

Are newer catalytic converters harder to steal?

Catalytic converters are inside the engine compartment of newer cars like Honda's 2015 Accord and Jazz models, making it more difficult for thieves to steal them.

Which cars are least likely to be stolen?

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.

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.

Can you lock a 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.

How much is a stolen catalytic 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.

Do all 50 states require catalytic converters?

“A catalytic converter is required by law in all 50 states in U.S. territories, you must have that emission control device on a vehicle,” Glawe said.

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.