What vehicle is the catalytic converter most stolen?
The Toyota Prius has been the most commonly targeted vehicle for catalytic converter thefts in the United States in recent years. Police reports and insurance data frequently show Prius models at the top of theft lists, driven by a combination of vehicle prevalence, undercarriage access, and the value of the metals inside the converters. Here is a closer look at why this happens and what drivers can do to protect themselves.
Why the Prius attracts more thefts
Below are the primary factors that research and law enforcement data point to when explaining why Prius models are repeatedly targeted by catalytic converter thieves.
- High volume on U.S. roads: The Prius has been one of the most common hybrids in the country, increasing opportunities for theft simply due to sheer numbers.
- Undercarriage access: The converter on many Prius generations sits in a location that is relatively easy to reach from the ground with common hand-tools, making quick work for thieves.
- Valuable metals: Catalytic converters contain precious metals such as platinum and palladium, whose resale value incentivizes theft regardless of the car’s make or model.
- Less immediate risk for criminals: In some areas, thefts can be quick and result in fewer immediate consequences for the thief, encouraging repeat offenses.
Taken together, these factors help explain why Prius models have led catalytic converter theft statistics in multiple jurisdictions over the past decade. However, the landscape can shift by year and region, so other popular models sometimes appear at the top of local lists.
Other models that are commonly targeted
Beyond the Prius, several other models have shown higher-than-average catalytic converter theft rates in various datasets, including NICB reports and police records. The list below summarizes models that frequently appear on theft tallies.
- Honda CR-V
- Honda Civic
- Toyota Camry and Toyota RAV4
- Ford F-Series trucks (such as the F-150)
- Other popular Toyota and Honda sedans and SUVs depending on year and region
Note that theft patterns can vary by geography and year; while Prius remains a prominent target nationally, local police data may highlight different top models.
Protective steps for owners
Consumers and fleets can take practical measures to reduce the risk of catalytic converter theft. The following recommendations reflect common-sense security practices supported by law enforcement and insurance guidance.
- Install a catalytic converter anti-theft device or shield: These devices encase the converter or make removal more difficult and time-consuming for thieves.
- Park in well-lit, secure areas or garages whenever possible: Increased visibility and access risk can deter theft.
- Engrave or etch the VIN on the converter: This can aid in recovery and deter resale if the converter is stolen.
- Install alarms or vehicle immobilizers that trigger on undercarriage tampering: Some systems are designed to detect exhaust system interference.
- Regularly inspect and maintain the exhaust system: Early detection of tampering can reduce loss and damage.
These protective steps are not foolproof, but they can significantly raise the effort and cost for thieves and improve chances of quick recovery if a theft occurs.
Summary
In practice, the Toyota Prius has emerged as the most targeted vehicle for catalytic converter thefts in recent years, driven by its popularity, converter placement, and the value of metals inside. Other models such as the Honda CR-V, Honda Civic, Toyota Camry, Toyota RAV4, and Ford F-Series trucks also appear as frequent targets in various regions and years. Owners can reduce risk by employing anti-theft devices, securing parking, and marking converters for identification. Staying informed about local theft trends remains important for making the right security choices.
What car brand has the most catalytic converters stolen?
Ford F-150
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.
What car pays the most for catalytic converters?
That honor belongs to the Ram 2500, with a catalytic converter price of $3,460. The fourth most-expensive, the Ford F-250, will run drivers $2,804, representing a significant price drop from the top three. Rounding out the top five is the Ford Mustang at $1,500, a relatively modest figure in comparison.
Which cars are not targeted for catalytic converter theft?
What Cars Do Catalytic Converter Thieves Avoid
- Gasoline-powered engines made before 1974 don't have catalytic converters.
- Diesel engine converters don't contain the precious metals that thieves want.
- Electric cars do not have catalytic converters.
What is the #1 stolen car in America?
The #1 most stolen car in America, according to the Highway Loss Data Institute (HLDI), is the Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 for model years 2022-2024. This high-performance model is stolen at a rate 39 times higher than the average vehicle, partly due to its high horsepower and the data available through on-board ports.
- High theft rate: The Camaro ZL1 is stolen at a rate that is nearly 40 times higher than the average car, according to Reader's Digest.
- Attraction to thieves: The vehicle's high horsepower is a significant factor, as muscle cars have frequently topped theft lists.
- Other high-theft vehicles: While the ZL1 is #1, other vehicles like the standard Chevrolet Camaro (13 times higher than average), Acura TLX, and various GMC, Ram, and Dodge pickup trucks also have high theft rates, notes AL.com.
- Data source: The HLDI analyzes insurance claim data to determine relative theft frequencies, which provides a more accurate picture of which vehicles are most at risk.
