What cars are not targeted for catalytic converter theft?
The simplest answer is that fully electric vehicles have no catalytic converters to steal, so they cannot be targeted in the traditional sense. More broadly, while some models are less attractive to thieves than others, no gasoline-powered car is completely immune to catalytic converter theft; risk varies by design, location, and market conditions.
Why catalytic converters are stolen
Catalytic converters contain precious metals such as platinum, palladium, and rhodium. Thieves target them because these metals can be sold for scrap, often with relatively quick, high-profit returns. Accessibility, ease of removal, and the vehicle’s undercarriage layout help determine how tempting a model is to criminals. Peaks in theft activity tend to follow metal prices and criminal trends, not just vehicle popularity.
Cars not targeted for catalytic converter theft
Electric vehicles (BEVs) have no catalytic converters
Blueprinted for readers: fully electric vehicles use electric motors powered by batteries and do not burn fuel in an internal-combustion engine. Because they do not have a traditional exhaust system or catalytic converter, they cannot be theft targets for catalytic converters in the way gasoline-powered cars are. This makes BEVs the category with the lowest risk for converter theft in practical terms.
Examples of electric vehicles currently on the market (illustrative list):
- Tesla Model 3
- Tesla Model Y
- Nissan Leaf
- Chevrolet Bolt EV
- Hyundai Ioniq 5
- Kia EV6
- Hyundai Kona Electric
- Volkswagen ID.4
- Ford Mustang Mach-E
- BMW i4
Because these models do not rely on a catalytic converter in the exhaust system, they are not targeted for catalytic converter theft in the same way gasoline-powered vehicles are. This difference is a key factor for anyone considering a car primarily to minimize this particular risk.
Non-electric vehicles: risk varies and protective measures matter
For drivers of conventional gasoline- or diesel-powered cars, there is no universal guarantee of safety. Some vehicles remain more attractive targets due to the size, placement, or accessibility of their catalytic converters, while others are less frequently targeted in certain markets. Protective measures can help reduce risk.
To help reduce risk on non-electric vehicles, consider these options:
- Install a catalytic converter shield or cage to make removal more difficult.
- Engrave the catalytic converter with a VIN or other identifying marks and register it with local authorities.
- Park in well-lit, secure areas and use environments with surveillance where possible.
- Use anti-theft clamps or other securing devices designed for catalytic converters.
- Work with a reputable mechanic to minimize opportunities—for example, ask about installation practices that protect the exhaust system during maintenance.
In practice, while these measures can deter theft and complicate it for criminals, no car is completely invulnerable when criminal activity is active in a region. The best approach often combines vehicle choice (favoring BEVs if risk avoidance is a priority) with practical security measures for gasoline- and diesel-powered models.
Summary
All-electric vehicles are not targeted for catalytic converter theft because they lack a catalytic converter altogether. For traditional internal-combustion engine cars, theft risk varies by model and location, but protective steps can reduce the odds. The broader takeaway is that, if avoiding catalytic converter theft is a priority, choosing a BEV is the most straightforward path, while gasoline- and diesel-powered vehicles should be safeguarded with practical security measures and mindful parking habits.
What cars are exempt from catalytic converters?
The Legal Aspect
For starters, vehicles made prior to the 1975 catalytic converter mandate are excluded from the federal law requiring a catalytic converter. So if you've got a vehicle made in 1974 or earlier, than you'll likely have an exemption.
What is the hardest car for thieves to steal?
Which is the hardest car to steal and why? Tesla models and luxury brands like Jaguar and Lexus have anti-theft technologies that make stealing difficult. These systems alert the owner and manufacturer immediately when tampering occurs.
What cars don't get their catalytic converters stolen?
There are some cars that are less likely to have their catalytic converter stolen:
- A vehicle that is lower to the ground (if it's too hard to get under, it's not going to be a fast and easy theft!)
- All vehicles that are older than 1974 were not made with those valuable components.
What is the easiest car to steal a catalytic converter?
Ford F-150
In fact, Carfax ranks the Ford F-150 number one as the car most likely to have its catalytic converter stolen nationwide. Criminals target this model because it sits high off the ground, making it easy for them to crawl under quickly.
