Thefts of catalytic converters spiked in 2021, with more than 50,000 converters stolen off of parked vehicles nationwide. Catalytic converters have been federally mandated since 1975, and they are located within the exhaust system to help clean gasoline and diesel emissions. Hybrid vehicles have lower emissions than purely gasoline-powered vehicles, so the metals in their converters tend to last longer. Converters contain three precious metals: Palladium, Rhodium, and Platinum, which is what makes them highly sought after.
According to the Highway Loss Data Institute, the cost to install a new catalytic converter can be as much as $3,000. Insurance claims for a stolen converter in 2020 ranged from $500 to $3,000. Most comprehensive vehicle insurance can help cover a stolen converter. We recommend taking the following precautions to prevent catalytic converter theft:
- Call 911 if you see any suspicious activity
- Park indoors if possible
- Park in a well-lit area
- Install motion-sensitive lights and cameras in your parking area
- Consider installing a dash camera
- Install an anti-theft device
- Paint your catalytic converter to deters buyers
- Get your converter etched because thieves have a harder time selling it
