What are the trucks that have catalytic converters stolen?
In recent years, catalytic converter thefts have surged, with pickups and light trucks being hit particularly hard. The most frequently reported targets among trucks include Ford F-Series (notably the F-150), Ram pickups, Chevrolet Silverado, GMC Sierra, and Toyota Tacoma and Tundra. While regional differences exist, these models consistently appear in police and insurance data since 2020.
Why trucks are targeted
Thieves are drawn to catalytic converters because they contain precious metals such as platinum, palladium, and rhodium. Truck configurations—longer exhaust systems and accessible undercarriages—often allow thieves to remove a converter quickly, sometimes in just minutes with basic tools. The rising scrap-metal value during the past few years has intensified the incentive to steal these components.
Models most frequently reported as targets
The following truck models have shown up most often in theft reports over the past several years, according to police records, insurance data, and crime-tracking sources. The list reflects reported incidents rather than a definitive ranking, and regional patterns can shift over time.
- Ford F-Series (especially the F-150 and related variants)
- Ram Pickup (1500/2500/3500)
- Chevrolet Silverado
- GMC Sierra
- Toyota Tacoma
- Toyota Tundra
These examples illustrate frequent targets but are not exhaustive; thefts can affect other pickup models depending on location and access.
Regional patterns and year-to-year shifts
Urban and suburban crime data show spikes in catalytic converter thefts in major metropolitan areas and in on-street parking near commercial districts. The mix of targeted models can vary by city, dealership activity, and the presence of organized theft rings. From 2020 through 2024, reports consistently highlighted Ford F-Series and Toyota pickups as common targets across multiple regions, with full-size GM trucks also appearing prominently in many locales.
Prevention and protection for truck owners
Owners can reduce risk by adopting multiple layers of protection. The following steps are commonly recommended by police departments and insurers to deter theft and speed recovery if it occurs.
- Install a catalytic converter shield or lock to make removal more difficult or time-consuming.
- Consider aftermarket anti-theft devices such as alarms or VIN etching on the converter.
- Park in well-lit areas, secure garages, or lots with security cameras when possible.
- Record and store photos/serial numbers for your vehicle and its exhaust components; file a theft report promptly if needed.
- Use protective exhaust guards or welded brackets that hinder quick removal.
- Attach a GPS tracker to critical components for quicker recovery if stolen.
Implementing multiple defenses can significantly reduce the odds of theft and improve recovery prospects if a converter is stolen.
Summary
Catalytic converter thefts have prominently affected pickup trucks such as Ford F-Series, Ram Pickup, Chevrolet Silverado, GMC Sierra, Toyota Tacoma, and Toyota Tundra in recent years. The problem stems from the valuable metals inside converters and the relative ease of access on many trucks, with regional patterns varying. Owners should stay informed about local crime trends and adopt layered prevention strategies to protect their vehicles.
