Catalytic converter theft is a common problem. Many thieves who steal catalytic converters have become so skilled at it that they're fearless. They're just as likely to target vehicles parked on crowded city streets and in public parking lots as those parked on desolate country roads or private property.
How can you tell if your vehicle's been targeted? When starting your car, if your engine is suddenly much louder, you may be a victim of catalytic converter theft.
If you file an auto claim, will insurance cover catalytic converter theft? It depends on the type of coverage you have with your auto insurance policy.
Catalytic converter theft may only be covered by policies with comprehensive coverage. USAA is here to provide information on how to prevent catalytic converter theft and ensure you get the right type of coverage to help protect you from these high-cost crimes.
What is a catalytic converter?
In cars and trucks with an internal combustion engine, or ICE, the catalytic converter reduces the toxicity of pollutants in exhaust fumes. It's a rectangular or oval-shaped box connected to a vehicle's exhaust line. It looks like a smaller, secondary muffler on a car's exhaust pipe.
Catalytic converters eliminate unburned fuel and potentially dangerous gases from exhaust before the vehicle's muffler releases them into the environment.
These devices convert the harmful exhaust gases from an ICE into carbon dioxide and water vapor using one or more of three precious metals: platinum, palladium, or rhodium. A properly functioning catalytic converter is necessary to pass safety and emissions inspections in many states.
According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau, or NICB, catalytic converter theft has risen a staggering 325% since 2019 Opens in a New Window. See note 1
Mechanics access catalytic converters by jacking up the vehicle in the air or placing it on a hydraulic lift. Thieves typically get to them by crawling underneath a parked vehicle, although they may use a portable jack if the situation allows.
Why is catalytic converter theft so common?
There are three compelling reasons for thieves to risk serving serious jail time to steal your catalytic converter.
They're worth serious money.
The rising value of platinum, palladium and rhodium over the last four years has led to an increase in thefts. These rare metals command a high price on the black market.
They're relatively easy to steal.
Thieves typically work in teams, sometimes posing as emergency auto technicians. One thief keeps a lookout while the other works on the car. An experienced thief can remove one in mere minutes using a hacksaw or battery-operated metal cutting blade.
Easy access.
It's common for many of us to leave our vehicles unattended for hours, and occasionally even days. Every time you commute to work, meet friends for dinner and a movie or fly out on vacation, your vehicle sits unguarded until you return. Even a trip to the grocery store can put your car at risk of catalytic converter theft.
At the end of the day, a big payday with little effort makes theft of catalytic converters a win-win for criminals.
What cars are targeted for catalytic converter theft?
Vehicles commonly targeted often have a higher curb height and exhaust systems that are easier to access. According to Car & Driver magazine, the top 10 vehicles most often targeted for theft are:
- Ford F-series pickups
- Honda Accord
- Jeep Patriot
- Ford Econoline vans
- Chevrolet Silverado
- Chevrolet Equinox
- Honda CR-V
- Toyota Camry
- Chrysler 200
- Toyota Prius
While these vehicles are the most targeted, any car that has a catalytic converter can be at risk. It's important to take precautions to prevent the theft of your car or truck's exhaust components.
How to prevent catalytic converter theft
You can prevent catalytic converter theft with a few simple steps Opens in a New Window. See note 1
Lock and alarm your vehicle.
Locking your car doors and engaging the alarm is the most basic way to prevent all types of theft.
Initialize your catalytic converter.
Etch your vehicle's VIN onto your catalytic converter. This can serve as a theft deterrent. Several states have passed laws requiring a title or registration document to sell a catalytic converter. An etched part will be harder for a thief to sell.
Park in a well-lit area, garage or secured lot.
Thieves who target vehicles are far less likely to pick a car that's parked in a well-lit area or secured parking garage with security cameras.
Watch for trucks or vehicles loitering in parking lots.
Though easy to remove, catalytic converters are heavy, which is why thieves often work in teams. When walking to your car, whether it's parked on the street or in a garage, be aware of your surroundings. If you see suspicious activity near your car, don't go any closer. Trying to scare off potentially dangerous thieves isn't worth your safety. Instead, get to a more populated area and report the activity.
Install a motion sensor on your vehicle.
Motion sensors on parked cars emit loud alerts when jacked up, rocked or approached.
Install a catalytic converter anti-theft device.
Invest in a cage that's welded onto the base of your vehicle, or any other number of anti-theft devices available for retail sale.
Consider buying an electric vehicle.
Vehicles powered by electric motors don't have catalytic converters. But hybrid vehicles have ICE systems that include catalytic converters, so keep that in mind when car shopping.
What happens if your catalytic converter is stolen?
You'll need to replace a stolen converter. Driving without one isn't just noisy; it also releases harmful toxins into the environment and could cause your car to fail state-required emissions tests.
The NICB reports that replacement costs can range from $1,500 to $3,000. And while that may seem expensive, especially if you don't have the right insurance coverage, driving without a catalytic converter on your vehicle is against the law in some states. If you're caught, you could be facing large fines that'll cost you a lot more than the car repair.
A mechanic can confirm a stolen catalytic converter by looking for any gaps or cut-out portions in your car's exhaust line.
If you're a victim of catalytic converter theft, report it immediately to the police.
Does insurance cover catalytic convert theft?
Comprehensive coverage covers catalytic converter theft. Auto insurance policies can include different coverage types, like liability, collision and comprehensive.
It's important to review your policy with your insurance professional to be sure you understand what types of coverage you have and make changes, if needed.
For example, liability coverage helps pay for the injuries and damages you cause in an accident with another driver. For damage for your car from driving-related incidents, like colliding with another vehicle, you'll need collision coverage.
Only comprehensive coverage protects you from theft of your vehicle's auto parts. Coverage typically includes permanent or preinstalled features like wheels and tires, third-row seats and catalytic converters, all of which are popular targets for thieves.
Comprehensive coverage isn't required by law, but most lenders require it. It protects their investment. And it protects you, too.
Here's how it works. Comprehensive deductibles can range from $250 to $1,000, with $500 being the most common. So, let's say your catalytic converter is stolen and you've set a $500 deductible. If the cost to replace it is $3,000, you pay the first $500 toward the cost of repairs, and your comprehensive insurance kicks in to pay the remaining $2,500.
Remember, even if you have liability and collision insurance, if you don't have comprehensive coverage included in your auto policy, you'll be on the hook to pay the full $3,000 out of your own pocket to replace the stolen catalytic converter.
Your USAA insurance professional can walk you through the types of auto coverage options to help make sure you have the protection you need.
Protect your vehicle from thieves.
Get financial protection from catalytic converter theft with comprehensive auto insurance.