What cars are least likely to have catalytic converter stolen?
Catalytic converter theft has become a growing problem in recent years, with thieves targeting the valuable precious metals found inside these automotive components. However, some vehicles are less likely to have their catalytic converters stolen than others. By understanding the factors that make a car a less attractive target, vehicle owners can take steps to protect their cars and reduce the risk of this type of theft.
Factors That Deter Catalytic Converter Theft
Several factors can make a car less appealing to catalytic converter thieves, including:
- Vehicle Height - Taller vehicles, such as SUVs and trucks, are more difficult for thieves to access the catalytic converter, making them less attractive targets.
- Catalytic Converter Location - Vehicles with catalytic converters that are more difficult to access, such as those located in the middle or rear of the car, are less likely to be targeted.
- Catalytic Converter Size - Larger catalytic converters, which are found in larger vehicles, contain more valuable precious metals and are therefore less desirable targets for thieves.
- Anti-Theft Devices - Vehicles equipped with catalytic converter theft deterrents, such as protective cages or sensors, are less likely to be targeted by thieves.
By understanding these factors, vehicle owners can make informed decisions about the cars they choose to purchase or modify to reduce the risk of catalytic converter theft.
Least Likely Vehicles for Catalytic Converter Theft
Based on the factors mentioned above, some of the vehicles least likely to have their catalytic converters stolen include:
- Large SUVs and Trucks - Vehicles with a higher ground clearance and larger catalytic converters, such as Ford F-150s, Chevrolet Silverados, and GMC Sierras, are less appealing targets for thieves.
- Hybrid Vehicles - Hybrid cars, such as the Toyota Prius, often have their catalytic converters located in more difficult-to-access areas, making them less attractive targets.
- Vehicles with Anti-Theft Devices - Cars equipped with catalytic converter theft deterrents, such as protective cages or sensors, are less likely to be targeted by thieves.
By choosing a vehicle that is less likely to have its catalytic converter stolen, car owners can help protect their investment and reduce the risk of this type of theft.
How to park your car to avoid catalytic converter theft?
To avoid becoming a victim of catalytic converter theft, consider the following:
- Park in a garage when possible.
- Park in an area covered by surveillance video.
- Park close to curbs to deter access underneath your vehicle.
- Park in well-lit areas.
Which SUV is least likely to have the catalytic converter stolen?
American cars such as Jeep, Chrysler, Ford, Dodge, and Chevrolet are least likely to be targeted as they have less valuable converters. Nissan, Mazda, Subaru, and Hyundai also limit the amount of precious metals used in the converter designs.
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 is the cheapest way to prevent catalytic converter theft?
How to prevent catalytic converter theft
- Use multiple methods to deter theft, like parking somewhere that blocks access and installing a theft prevention device.
- The cheapest way to prevent theft might be painting your catalytic converter a bright color and labeling it.
Are newer cars safer from catalytic converter theft?
The valuable metals in a catalytic converter degrade as they pull pollutants out of exhaust gas. Hybrids have lower emissions than purely gasoline-powered cars. So the metals in their catalytic converters tend to last longer. For the same reason, newer cars are at greater risk than older cars.
What cars have the lowest catalytic converter theft?
6 TYPES OF CARS LEAST LIKELY TARGETED BY CATALYTIC CONVERTER THIEVES
- Vehicles Built Before 1974.
- Vehicles With Low Ground Clearance.
- Non-Hybrid American and Asian Models.
- Models With Diesel Catalytic Converters.
- Newer Models With The Converter In The Engine.
- Electric Vehicles.
What car brand has the most catalytic converters stolen?
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 |
Can a car run without a catalytic converter?
If your converter has been stolen, you're likely to notice right away: Without the converter, your car will be much noisier than usual. Most cars will run without a catalytic converter, though it's inadvisable to do so for longer than necessary.
How do I make sure nobody steals my catalytic converter?
How to Prevent Catalytic Converter Theft
- Park in a Locked Garage Overnight.
- Park in an Illuminated Area Overnight.
- Modify Your Catalytic Converter's Appearance to Deter Thieves.
- Install Motion-Sensing Lights on Your Driveway.
- Install an Anti-Theft Device.
What cars are most vulnerable 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.
