How Can I Stop Someone From Stealing My Catalytic Converter?

Catalytic converters are vulnerable because they’re quick and easy to steal. Catalytic converters are expensive to replace. You can help protect your car against catalytic converter theft by etching the license plate number on it, parking in well-lit areas and installing an anti-theft device.

Which cars are most likely to have catalytic converter stolen?

The cars most likely to suffer catalytic converter theft
Which?’s figures show that the Toyota Prius, Toyota Auris and Honda Jazz are the most commonly targeted models, with Admiral also reporting many examples of the Lexus RX being singled out.

What happens when someone steals your catalytic converter?

Catalytic converters contain precious metals like rhodium, platinum, and palladium. Thieves can pocket hundreds of dollars for each stolen converter by selling them to recyclers and auto repair shops.In California, it’s a violation of the state vehicle code to steal a converter. The penalty is a misdemeanor offense.

How much is a stolen catalytic converter worth?

And they can fetch big bucks on the scrap-metal market. The resale price varies by vehicle model, but a single catalytic converter can fetch between $100 and $500. A van or truck catalytic converter is worth even more – $500 to $1,500, according to the Montreal police service. Why are they being stolen?

Does insurance cover if someone steals your catalytic converter?

A stolen catalytic converter will disconnect the muffler resulting in the noise.Typically if you have comprehensive coverage on your auto insurance policy, then you’re covered against catalytic converter theft.

Where do stolen catalytic converters go?

Thieves can make hundreds of dollars selling the converters to auto parts supply shops or scrapyards, where they are melted down so the rare metals — including palladium and rhodium — can be extracted.

Is it safe to drive without a catalytic converter?

Avoid the temptation just to drive your ride home or to the nearest repair centre. Without the converter in place, the rest of the exhaust system may not be secure and you run the risk of doing more damage if a loose exhaust pipe digs into the road. Your best bet is to call your roadside assistance provider.

Can you tell if your catalytic converter has been stolen?

You may not be able to tell your catalytic converter was stolen by looking at your car, but you will know as soon as you start the engine. When the catalytic converter has been removed, your vehicle will make a loud roaring sound that will get louder as you push the gas pedal, says The Spruce.

What is a catalytic converter lock?

The CatClamp® was invented to prevent thieves from stealing your catalytic converter.The same wire rope locks the converter to the chassis of the vehicle up to seven times, creating too much work for a thief in a hurry.

How much do they pay for catalytic converters?

The average catalytic converter ranges between $800 and $1,200, depending on the vehicle’s make and model. In general, the larger the engine, the more expensive the converter. Keep in mind that these prices only include the cost of the converter unit itself.

How fast can a catalytic converter steal?

Harker added that a would-be thief can steal a catalytic converter from the underbelly of a car within 5-to-10 minutes. Because the process is so quiet and fast, most people do not know if their catalytic converters have been stolen until they start their engines and hear a loud rattle.

What states require catalytic converters?

California became the first state to require the use of CARB-compliant catalytic converters on January 1, 2009. In subsequent years, other states including New York (6/1/2013) and Maine (6/1/2018) mandated the use of CARB-compliant converters for certain model year vehicles.

Do catalytic converter clamps work?

CatClamp claims a 99.9% effective rate for over 5 years running. The basic premise of the CatClamp is to encase the Catalytic Converter in a hard to cut “cable” cage and attach that cage to several points on the chassis.

How much is a scrap catalytic converter worth?