How do you know if your catalytic converter has been stolen from your car?
If you've noticed a sudden increase in the noise coming from your car's exhaust or a decrease in your vehicle's fuel efficiency, it could be a sign that your catalytic converter has been stolen. Catalytic converter theft has become a growing problem in recent years, as the precious metals inside these devices can be sold for a quick profit. Knowing the signs of a stolen catalytic converter can help you take action quickly to address the issue.
Identifying a Stolen Catalytic Converter
There are several key signs that your catalytic converter has been stolen:
- Increased Exhaust Noise: Without the catalytic converter, your car's exhaust system will be much louder, often sounding like a rumbling or roaring noise coming from the underside of your vehicle.
- Decreased Fuel Efficiency: The catalytic converter plays a crucial role in your car's emissions system, helping to reduce harmful pollutants. When it's missing, your vehicle will run less efficiently, resulting in lower gas mileage.
- Visible Damage: If you look under your car, you may be able to see that the catalytic converter has been cut or removed, leaving behind exposed pipes or wiring.
If you notice any of these signs, it's important to take your car to a mechanic as soon as possible to have the issue assessed and addressed.
Preventing Catalytic Converter Theft
While catalytic converter theft can be a frustrating and costly problem, there are steps you can take to help protect your vehicle:
- Park in Well-Lit Areas: Thieves often target cars parked in dark or secluded areas, so try to park in well-lit, high-traffic locations whenever possible.
- Install a Catalytic Converter Shield: These protective devices make it more difficult for thieves to access and remove your catalytic converter.
- Engrave Your Converter: Etching your vehicle's VIN or other identifying information on the catalytic converter can make it less appealing to thieves and easier to trace if it is stolen.
- Consider Catalytic Converter Theft Insurance: Some auto insurance policies offer coverage specifically for catalytic converter theft, which can help offset the cost of replacement.
By being vigilant and taking proactive measures, you can help reduce the risk of your catalytic converter being targeted by thieves.
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.
What does your car sound like if the catalytic converter is stolen?
The first sign of a stolen catalytic converter is incredibly loud vehicle noises. You will find that when driving without your catalytic converter, it will sound like your vehicle is roaring—especially when starting or giving it gas.
How much does it cost to replace a catalytic converter?
between $200 and $2,500
Whether your catalytic converter needs replacing because it was stolen or because it is failing, a replacement can potentially cost you anywhere between $200 and $2,500 — and that's excluding labor costs.
How do I check my catalytic converter?
Using a vacuum gauge and testing for back pressure are common ways of checking whether or not the catalytic converter is clogged. There's no way of fixing a clogged or damaged catalytic converter. You'll need to replace it with a new one.
What car is most likely to have its catalytic converter stolen?
Here's a rundown of the vehicles that, from 2021 to 2022, had the most consistent losses reported from catalytic converter theft.
- Ford F-Series trucks.
- Honda Accord.
- Toyota Prius.
- Honda CR-V.
- Ford Explorer.
- Ford Econoline.
- Chevrolet Equinox.
- Chevrolet Silverado.
How do I check if my catalytic converter was stolen?
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.
Will my car start if the catalytic converter is stolen?
Yes and there's a good chance it may still start at first. If there's complete blockage it won't start.
How does a car act when the catalytic converter is bad?
Driving with Bad Catalytic Converter
If you're noticing sluggish engine performance, reduced acceleration, a smell of rotten eggs or sulfur from the exhaust, dark exhaust smoke, or extreme heat coming from under the vehicle, these are symptoms of a clogged Catalytic Converter, and it should be repaired soon.
Can you drive without a catalytic converter?
You can technically drive without a catalytic converter, but doing so would be illegal. If your catalytic converter has been stolen, you'll probably notice because your engine will be much louder while idling. Driving without a catalytic converter won't compromise your safety, but you will be at risk of being fined.
Can I still drive my car without a catalytic converter?
To summarize, it's possible but illegal and potentially unsafe to drive a car with a missing or bad catalytic converter. If you must operate your vehicle before you can afford a replacement cat-con, try to keep your trips brief and drive only to nearby locations.
