Why do thieves target Prius catalytic converters?

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 Toyota Prius catalytic converters so valuable?

“The demand is high for catalytic converters, and they seem to know which ones command the highest prices, like those on the older Priuses.” Prices have soared for metals like platinum, rhodium, palladium and others, due to lower mining production in recent years, a trend that was exacerbated by the pandemic.

What cars are targeted for catalytic converter theft the most?

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 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.

Why are Toyota Prius cats getting stolen?

How much are Toyota Prius catalytic converters worth?

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. This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your specific model year or unique location.

Why is it so easy to steal a Prius catalytic converter?

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.

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.

How much is a 2008 Toyota Prius catalytic converter worth?

We currently carry 6 Catalytic Converter products to choose from for your 2008 Toyota Prius, and our inventory prices range from as little as $215.99 up to $773.99.

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.

What cars have the easiest catalytic converters to steal?

What vehicles are the easiest to steal catalytic converters?

How do I protect my car from catalytic converter theft?

What year Prius is most likely to have catalytic converter stolen?

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).

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

Why are Toyota catalytic converters stolen?

Such thefts jumped due to the increasing value of the precious metals in catalytic converters, with thieves making up to $300 for a standard catalytic converter. A catalytic converter stolen from a hybrid vehicle can sell up to $1,400 because they use more of those precious metals.

Can you sell a Prius without a catalytic converter?

In a Prius must have a catalytic converter in California to pass the smog inspection. Since the car is a hybrid, it still uses some traditional fuel, which means standards emissions regulations.

How do you protect the catalytic converter on a Prius?

How much gold is in a catalytic converter?

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

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.

Are Prius catalytic converters valuable?

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 is a 2001 Toyota Prius catalytic converter worth?

2001 Toyota Prius Catalytic Converter - from $209.99+ | AutoZone.com.

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.

How long does it take to steal catalytic converter?

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.

What do they do with stolen catalytic converters?

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.