Are catalytic converters still being stolen in 2024?
Yes. Catalytic converter theft remained a persistent problem in 2024, with incidents reported across major cities and suburbs around the world, though some areas saw shifts in patterns as enforcement and protections increased.
Across the United States, insurers, police departments, and automotive industry groups continued documenting thefts driven by the precious metals inside converters and the relative ease of removal. Thieves typically target vehicles in parking lots or on-street spots, often in under five minutes, and hybrids or popular SUVs and pickups were frequently cited as common targets.
2024 at a glance
In 2024, law enforcement and insurance data still show catalytic converter thefts as a high-frequency auto crime. The metal value inside converters—platinum, palladium, and rhodium—remained a key economic driver, motivating improved theft methods and short-execution times. Authorities also pursued deterrents, from VIN etching to targeted patrols, while automakers and aftermarket providers expanded protective options. The net effect in some metros was a stabilization or slowdown in certain pockets, but the problem persisted in many places.
Where thefts were most common and which vehicles were targeted
Below is a snapshot of patterns observed in 2024 across multiple regions. The following list highlights general trends rather than precise city-by-city data.
- Hybrids and popular light-duty models were frequently targeted due to the value and accessibility of their undercarriage components.
- Vehicles parked in high-traffic urban areas, shopping districts, airports, stadiums, and other busy lots saw repeated thefts, often occurring at night or during off-peak hours.
- Criminals typically focus on the catalytic converter's platinum-group metals, with thefts sometimes yielding hundreds of dollars in value per car.
The pattern in 2024 showed that thefts were concentrated around areas with lots of unmonitored parking and where converters could be removed quickly, underscoring the importance of deterrents and careful parking choices.
Prevention and responses
To counter the trend, authorities, insurers, and automakers recommended a range of practical steps for vehicle owners. These actions are designed to deter theft and speed up reporting and recovery if theft occurs.
- Install anti-theft devices such as catalytic converter shields or cages, locking brackets, and reinforced mounting bolts designed to resist prying and cutting tools.
- Etch or stamp the vehicle's VIN on the catalytic converter and keep a detailed record of the vehicle's identity; consider photographing the exhaust area for identification.
- Park in well-lit, visible areas whenever possible; use secure garages or lots with surveillance; if no options exist, choose spots near entrances or security cameras.
- Activate vehicle alarms and consider aftermarket dashcams or exterior cameras to deter theft and aid in recovery.
- Check with your insurer about possible discounts for protective devices and enhanced anti-theft features.
Implementing a combination of deterrents and vigilant parking practices can reduce the risk, though no single solution guarantees zero thefts. The landscape in 2024 reflected ongoing adaptation by criminals and by communities seeking to prevent this common auto crime.
Summary
In 2024, catalytic converter theft remained a persistent issue, driven by the value of precious metals and the ease of removal. While some areas saw improvements due to enforcement and protection efforts, thefts continued across many regions, particularly in urban settings and among popular vehicle types. Drivers can reduce risk with anti-theft devices, VIN etching, vigilant parking, and proactive engagement with insurers and auto makers.
Are people still stealing catalytic converters in 2024?
After spiking toward the end of 2022, catalytic converter thefts have dropped significantly. “Our catalytic converter thefts for 2024 are 2,113 citywide,” LAPD Interim Chief Dominic Choi stated at the Los Angeles Police Commission meeting on June 4.
Which state has the most catalytic converter theft?
California
According to its claims data, State Farm says California ranks first in the country for auto parts thefts and catalytic converter thefts, accounting for more than 30 percent of all claims filed with State Farm.
What cars are not targeted for catalytic converter theft?
Cars least likely to have their catalytic converters stolen are those that don't have them, such as electric vehicles (EVs) and pre-1974 gasoline-powered cars. Other less likely vehicles include diesel cars (which contain fewer valuable precious metals in their converters) and certain models that are physically harder for thieves to access, such as those with low ground clearance or integrated converters.
Cars with no catalytic converter
- Electric vehicles (EVs): These produce no tailpipe emissions and therefore don't have a catalytic converter at all.
- Cars made before 1974: Catalytic converters were not commonly installed on vehicles until the mid-1970s.
Cars that are difficult targets
- Diesel vehicles: These are less attractive to thieves because their converters don't contain the precious metals that make the converters from gasoline engines so valuable.
- Vehicles with low ground clearance: It is more difficult for thieves to get underneath these cars, making them less appealing targets.
- Cars with the catalytic converter built into the engine: This design makes the converter harder for thieves to access.
- Newer, high-end vehicles: These may have more advanced security features, making them a higher-risk, lower-reward target for thieves, as mentioned by GoodCar.
- American and Asian brand vehicles: Some of these manufacturers have reduced the amount of precious metals in their converters, making them less profitable for thieves to steal, says MotorBiscuit.
Is catalytic converter theft still common?
Yes, catalytic converters are still being stolen, although the rates have decreased from their peak in 2022. Theft is down due to factors like falling precious metal prices and new state laws that make it harder to sell stolen converters. However, the thefts continue to happen, often from vehicles that are higher off the ground, like trucks, or from hybrid vehicles like the Toyota Prius.
- Prevalence: While the number of thefts has dropped from its peak, it remains a significant problem.
- Factors for reduction: The decrease is attributed to falling prices for precious metals like palladium and platinum, and a crackdown by law enforcement in many states.
- Continued risks: Despite the decline, thefts are still common, particularly in areas like California.
- Vulnerable vehicles: Higher-riding vehicles like trucks and hybrids like the Toyota Prius are frequently targeted.
- Difficulty: Thieves can often steal a converter in under five minutes, and damage to other parts like fuel lines can occur, leading to higher repair costs.
