Why are Prius catalytic converters being 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.

Why are Prius catalytic converters stolen more than others?

A spike in demand for precious metals used in making catalytic converters - emission control devices — has made Toyota Prius vehicles that are more than 10 years old unlikely targets of thieves. The frequency of theft claims for 2004-09 Prius models was more than 40 times higher in 2020 than in 2016.

How do thieves get under Prius to steal catalytic converter?

To steal a catalytic converter, thieves must get underneath the vehicle and remove it. Typically, they will use a small, battery-operated saw to cut through the connecting exhaust pipes, divorcing the component from the car in a matter of minutes. As you may have noticed, a Prius does not sit high off of the ground.

How much is a Toyota Prius catalytic converter worth in scrap?

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.

How much is a catalytic converter worth Prius?

Toyota Prius Catalytic Converter Replacement Cost Estimate. The average cost for a Toyota Prius catalytic converter replacement is between $2,142 and $2,174. Labor costs are estimated between $106 and $134 while parts are priced between $2,036 and $2,040.

Why are Toyota Prius cats getting stolen?

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.

Which cars are most likely to have catalytic converter stolen?

How can I prevent my catalytic converter from being stolen?

What car has the highest catalytic converter scrap value?

According to data from 2020, the most expensive catalytic converter belonged to the Ferrari F430, with a mind-popping $3,770.00 price tag.

Can a Prius run without a catalytic converter?

You can drive a Prius without a catalytic converter; however, it's not a great long-term solution. Your Prius will not function as well and will fail an emissions test.

What year of Prius have catalytic converter theft?

Photo courtesy of Toyota. Due to the precious metals contained in its catalytic converter, theft claim frequency for 2004-09 Toyota Prius models was a staggering 40 times higher in 2020 than in 2016, according to a recent analysis by the Highway Loss Data Institute (HLDI).

Does insurance cover stolen catalytic converters?

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 do I know if my catalytic converter is stolen Prius?

Which catalytic converters are being stolen?

Those vehicles most often targeted for catalytic converter theft during the past three years in California are the Toyota Prius, Honda Element, Honda Accord, Ford Econoline, Honda CRV, Ford F-250, Toyota Tundra, Toyota Sequoia, Ford Excursion and the Toyota Tacoma.

What kind of cars have exotic catalytic converters?

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.

Why are so many catalytic converters being stolen?

Money is the main reason catalytic converters are often stolen. They contain three metals that aid in the chemical reaction that makes exhaust pollutants less harmful: platinum, palladium and rhodium. The prices of these metals have risen dramatically during the early 21st century.

Where is the catalytic converter on a Prius?

In a Prius (and other cars), the catalytic converter is located underneath the car near the exhaust pipe. They are fairly easy to take off a car, which also makes them a target for criminals.

Why thieves want your catalytic converter?

In most cases, they don't even need to jack up the car! They're highly valuable. Catalytic converters are popular with thieves because they're valuable as scrap metal. They contain precious metals like rhodium, platinum and palladium used to filter your emissions and reduce vehicle pollution.

Which cars are least likely to have their 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 is the most popular catalytic converter stolen?

How easy is it to steal a catalytic converter?

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 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.

How much platinum is in a Prius catalytic converter?

Because catalytic converters contain three different Platinum Group Metals – platinum, palladium, and rhodium – they can be very valuable. On average, there are between 3-7 grams of platinum in a standard catalytic converter, but the amount varies based on manufacturer and model.

How do I protect my Prius catalytic converter?