Which car gets the catalytic converter stolen?
Catalytic converters, a crucial component of a vehicle's exhaust system, have become a prime target for thieves due to the valuable precious metals they contain. This theft has become a growing problem, affecting car owners across the country. In this article, we'll explore why catalytic converters are so vulnerable to theft and what car owners can do to protect their vehicles.
The Value of Catalytic Converters
Catalytic converters are designed to reduce the emissions of harmful pollutants from a vehicle's exhaust. They contain small amounts of precious metals, such as platinum, palladium, and rhodium, which act as catalysts to convert toxic gases into less harmful substances. These metals are highly valuable, making catalytic converters an attractive target for thieves.
Why Catalytic Converters Are Targeted
Catalytic converters are relatively easy to remove from a vehicle, and the theft can be done quickly, often in a matter of minutes. Thieves can then sell the stolen converters to scrap yards or recyclers, who will extract the precious metals and pay a significant amount of money for them.
Additionally, catalytic converters are located underneath the vehicle, making them accessible and less visible to the car's owner. This makes them an easy target for thieves, who can strike at any time, even in broad daylight.
Protecting Your Vehicle
To protect your vehicle from catalytic converter theft, consider the following steps:
- Park your vehicle in a well-lit area or a garage whenever possible.
- Install a catalytic converter protection device, such as a shield or cage, to make it more difficult for thieves to remove.
- Engrave your vehicle's license plate number or VIN on the catalytic converter to make it easier to identify if it is stolen.
- Consider upgrading to a more secure exhaust system that makes it harder for thieves to target your catalytic converter.
By taking these precautions, you can help deter thieves and reduce the risk of your catalytic converter being stolen.
Does insurance cover if my catalytic converter is stolen?
Comprehensive coverage covers catalytic converter theft. Auto insurance policies can include different coverage types, like liability, collision and comprehensive. It's important to review your policy with your insurance professional to be sure you understand what types of coverage you have and make changes, if needed.
What vehicles have the most valuable catalytic converters for scrap?
Especially SUV type vehicles use larger catalytic converter and this causes more use of elements such as platinum rhodium. We can give models such as Audi Q7, Audi Q5, Audi Q3 as examples. In addition, we can show them as examples such as BMW X5, BMW X4, BMW X3.
What cars are most likely to get a catalytic converter 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 |
What cars are not targeted for catalytic converter theft?
Which cars are least 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.
Can you drive without a catalytic converter?
Some states, including California, Colorado and New York, have strict emission requirements, so if your catalytic converter breaks, you need to install a new one that's CARB-compliant — or, in other words, one that complies with the standards of the California Air Resources Board.
How do you know 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.
What car has the most sought after catalytic converters?
The Toyota Prius has consistently been one of the most targeted vehicles for catalytic converter theft.
Can you drive car if catalytic converter is stolen?
You can technically drive a car without a catalytic converter without damaging the car or the engine.
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.
Does insurance cover catalytic converter theft?
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.
