Why are people stealing catalytic converters from Toyota?

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.

Why do Thieves Target Toyota catalytic converters?

Thieves steal the piece from the exhaust system because they have valuable metals inside. While they can make hundreds, it costs thousands of dollars to repair. “Unfortunately these precious metals are bringing in so much money,” Sheriff Carmine Marceno told NBC-2.

How much is a Toyota catalytic converter worth?

Toyota catalytic converters' worth can range from $75 and $700 when sold as scrap. The worth of a catalytic converter can vary depending on the car's make and model. Some of the most valuable catalytic converters come from the Toyota Prius.

Why are people stealing catalytic converters lately?

Recently, experts said the rise in these thefts is due to the high price the catalytic converter is worth. Johnny Uresti is the service manager at Pete's Auto Care Center. He said this rash of thefts isn't anything new. "People have been messing with catalytic converters for years.

Which cars are most likely to have catalytic converter stolen?

Understanding the wave of catalytic converter thefts

How do I protect my car from catalytic converter theft?

How much is a stolen catalytic converter worth?

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.

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 the catalytic converter is stolen?

Loud Vehicle Noises and Missing Catalytic Converter

The first sign of a stolen catalytic converter is incredibly loud vehicle noises. 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.

Does 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.

How much are Toyota RAV4 catalytic converters worth?

The average cost for a Toyota RAV4 catalytic converter replacement is between $1,308 and $1,359. Labor costs are estimated between $161 and $203 while parts are priced between $1,147 and $1,156. This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your specific model year or unique location.

How much is a Toyota 4 Runner catalytic converter worth?

The average cost for a Toyota 4Runner catalytic converter replacement is between $1,809 and $1,839. Labor costs are estimated between $98 and $123 while parts are priced between $1,712 and $1,716.

What is a Toyota Prius catalytic converter worth?

Hybrids require catalytic converters with a higher concentration of precious metals than those found on gasoline-only cars. The HLDI notes that the converter from a 2007 Prius is selling for about $1,022 today, compared to just $143 for the converter used a Ford F-150 from the same year.

How much platinum is in a Toyota catalytic converter?

Although the quantities vary by model, on average, only one standard catalytic converter contains about 3-7 grams of platinum, 2-7 grams of palladium, 1-2 grams rhodium.

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 year cars are targeted for catalytic converter theft?

In the western part of the country, the following cars are the top targets: 2001-2021 Toyota Prius. 1985-2021 Ford F-Series. 1989-2020 Honda Accord.

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.

Do RAV4 catalytic converters get stolen?

Hybrid SUVs and cars are the most at risk of catalytic converter theft. This includes any type of hybrid model, from the Toyota Prius and Honda Insight to the RAV4 Hybrid and Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid.

What kind of cars have exotic catalytic converters?

What is the street value of a catalytic converter?

While the “street value” of a catalytic converter can range between a mere $100 to $700 depending on the type of vehicle it's stolen from, replacing a stolen one will cost you a lot more. With labor, a catalytic converter replacement is estimated at between $1,000 and $3,000.

How much do thieves get for a Prius catalytic converter?

Data available from marketplace website AutoCatalystMarket.com shows that the average scrap price for a GD3+EA6 catalytic converter found in a second-generation Prius is $1,022.

How do I know if my catalytic converter is stolen Prius?

Why are Prius cats stolen?

That's why the Prius comes with some of the best catalytic converters installed on commercial vehicles. Hybrid cars are mainly targeted for their converters because they corrode much less. The better that precious metal coating is preserved, the more thieves can make through illegal trading.