Do people steal catalytic converters from Honda?
In recent years, the theft of catalytic converters has become a growing problem, with Honda vehicles emerging as a prime target for these crimes. Catalytic converters, essential components in a vehicle's exhaust system, have become a valuable target for thieves due to the precious metals they contain.
Why Are Catalytic Converters Being Stolen?
Catalytic converters contain small amounts of valuable metals, such as platinum, palladium, and rhodium, which can be sold for a significant profit on the black market. Thieves can quickly remove a converter and sell it to scrap yards or metal recyclers, often making hundreds of dollars per theft. This lucrative criminal activity has led to a surge in catalytic converter thefts across the United States, with Honda vehicles being particularly vulnerable.
Why Are Honda Vehicles Targeted?
Honda vehicles are targeted for several reasons:
- Accessibility: Honda's ground clearance makes it easier for thieves to access and remove the catalytic converter, compared to vehicles with higher ground clearance.
- Valuable Metals: Catalytic converters in Honda vehicles tend to contain higher concentrations of precious metals, making them more valuable to thieves.
- Popularity: Honda is one of the most popular and widely-owned car brands, providing a larger pool of potential targets for thieves.
The combination of these factors has made Honda vehicles a prime target for catalytic converter theft, leading to a significant increase in these crimes across the country.
Combating Catalytic Converter Theft
Authorities and Honda owners are taking various measures to combat the rise in catalytic converter theft:
- Increased Surveillance: Law enforcement agencies are stepping up patrols and surveillance in areas known for high rates of catalytic converter theft.
- Etching and Marking: Some Honda owners are having their catalytic converters etched with unique identification numbers or painted with bright colors to deter thieves and make the converters more easily traceable.
- Protective Devices: Specialized cages and shields are being installed on Honda vehicles to make it more difficult for thieves to access and remove the catalytic converter.
- Legislation: Some states and municipalities are enacting laws to regulate the sale of used catalytic converters, making it harder for thieves to profit from their crimes.
While these efforts are helping to address the problem, the theft of catalytic converters from Honda vehicles remains a persistent issue that requires ongoing vigilance and a multi-faceted approach to combat.
How do I know if my Honda has a bad catalytic converter?
6 Signs Your Honda Needs a New Catalytic Converter
- Your Gas Mileage Is Dropping.
- Your Engine's Losing Power.
- Your Car Starts Misfiring.
- Your Tailpipe Emits Black Smoke.
- You Catch an Unpleasant Smell.
- You Can Hear Your Cat Rattling.
What cars are not targeted for catalytic converter theft?
Gasoline-powered engines made before 1974 don't have catalytic converters. That was the year when stricter emissions regulations mandated the component. Diesel engine converters don't contain the precious metals that thieves want. Electric cars do not have catalytic converters.
Do Hondas have a catalytic converter?
Catalytic converters, also known as cats, are required by law on every motor vehicle in order to keep exhaust emissions clean. If your cat runs into trouble, you'll need to have it repaired or replaced at your local Honda dealer as soon as possible.
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 to tell if someone stole your catalytic converter?
Symptoms of Converter Theft
Go to the back of the car and look underneath. The catalytic converter is a round canister that connects two pieces of piping in the exhaust. You will see a gaping space in the middle of your exhaust if the converter is missing, and you will likely see signs of the piping being cut away.
Why are Honda catalytic converters so valuable?
- Valuable Metals: Catalytic converters contain precious metals like platinum, palladium, and rhodium.
- High Demand: Older vehicles, including models like the Honda Accord, often have catalytic converters that are easier to remove and contain higher amounts of these precious metals compared to newer vehicles.
Why do people steal catalytic converters from Honda?
Catalytic converters are designed to act as a line of defense against harmful exhaust emissions by turning pollutants into harmless gasses. The technology used in these emission control devices includes many precious metals — like platinum, palladium or rhodium – making them a valuable item to steal and resell.
How long do Honda catalytic converters last?
For The Car Owner
A typical catalytic converter can supposedly last for up to 10 years or more.
What car has the most sought after catalytic converters?
Top Cars Targeted Nationwide
| Rank | Model | Rank Change from 2022 |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | FORD F-150 | +1 |
| 2 | FORD EXPLORER | +6 |
| 3 | HONDA ACCORD | -2 |
| 4 | TOYOTA PRIUS | -1 |
Which Hondas are targeted for catalytic converter theft?
Which cars are most susceptible to catalytic converter theft? The vehicles most vulnerable to catalytic converter theft include the Ford F-series, Honda Accord, Toyota Prius, Honda CR-V, Ford Explorer, Ford Econoline/E-Series, Chevrolet Equinox, and Chevrolet Silverado.
