What cars don t get catalytic converters stolen?
Catalytic converter theft has become a growing problem in recent years, with thieves targeting vehicles to steal the valuable metals inside these emissions control devices. However, certain cars are less prone to catalytic converter theft due to their design or the materials used. This article will explore which types of vehicles are less likely to have their catalytic converters stolen.
Vehicles with Stainless Steel Catalytic Converters
One of the key factors that makes a car less attractive to catalytic converter thieves is the material used in the converter itself. Stainless steel catalytic converters are much less valuable to thieves than those made with more precious metals like platinum, palladium, and rhodium. 1 Vehicles equipped with stainless steel converters are therefore less likely to be targeted by thieves. Examples of cars with stainless steel catalytic converters include many Toyota and Honda models.
Hybrid and Electric Vehicles
Hybrid and electric vehicles often have smaller catalytic converters or may not have them at all. 2 This is because these vehicles produce fewer emissions, reducing the need for a large, precious-metal-laden catalytic converter. Thieves are less interested in targeting the smaller, less valuable converters found in hybrid and electric cars.
Vehicles with Catalytic Converter Cages or Shields
Some automakers have started installing additional security measures to protect catalytic converters, such as cages or shields that make the converters more difficult to remove. These physical barriers can deter thieves and make it harder for them to steal the converter. 3 Vehicles with these anti-theft features are less likely to have their catalytic converters targeted.
Older Vehicles
Older vehicles, particularly those manufactured before the 1990s, may have less valuable catalytic converters that are less appealing to thieves. 4 These older converters often contain fewer precious metals, making them less lucrative targets for theft.
Conclusion
While no vehicle is completely immune to catalytic converter theft, certain cars are less likely to be targeted due to their design, materials, or security features. Drivers of vehicles with stainless steel catalytic converters, hybrid or electric cars, and older models may have a lower risk of their converters being stolen. Automakers are also increasingly incorporating anti-theft measures to protect this valuable component and deter would-be thieves.
Do Teslas have a catalytic converter?
Although there is no catalytic converter in electric cars, there are plenty of other important components that you should be aware of.
How can you tell if your catalytic converter has been stolen?
When the catalytic converter has been removed, your vehicle will make a loud roaring sound that'll get louder as you push the gas pedal. Your car might also make a sputtering sound as you change speed, or you'll notice it's not driving smoothly.
How do I make sure nobody steals my catalytic converter?
Park in well-lit areas close to public entrances, regularly move your car's spot or use a closed garage. Install an anti-theft device. Install motion-sensitive lights and cameras in your parking area. Paint your catalytic converter to deter buyers – some local police departments even offer free programs for painting.
What car is least likely to have a catalytic converter stolen?
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.
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.
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.
Are there any cars that do not have catalytic converters?
Only very old cars or vehicles without an exhaust system, such as electric vehicles, don't have a catalytic converter.
Are newer cars safer from catalytic converter theft?
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. Thieves also target cars they can easily get under quickly.
What cars are most at risk of 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.
What cars have the most expensive catalytic converters?
According to data from 2020, the most expensive catalytic converter belonged to the Ferrari F430, with a mind-popping $3,770.00 price tag. Moreover, the F430 needed two of them, so a full replacement would run car owners $7,540 before labor costs.
