Thieves are after catalytic converters to recycle the precious metals that are inside, but police say that process is not one that anyone can do. Often times, thieves have to take the stolen goods to a recycling center that will extract the metal from the converter, according to law enforcement officials.
Where do all the 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.
What do they do with stolen catalytic converters?
Thieves steal catalytic converters to get the precious metals rhodium and platinum. Scrap metal recyclers can turn those precious metals into cash, and in many cases, they may be acting within the law and are unaware of the theft.
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?
Which cars are more likely to have catalytic converters stolen?
Vehicles that have had the most thefts are: Toyota Prius, SUV’s of all makes, Pick up Trucks of all makes, van’s (mostly Honda), passenger cars (mostly Honda), 2 U-Haul trucks. Gov. Roy Cooper recently signed a bill that makes catalytic converter theft a felony.
How do I stop thieves from stealing my catalytic converter?
Thieves target catalytic converters because they contain precious metals.
Three ways to protect against catalytic converter theft
- Etch your license plate number onto your catalytic converter.
- Park in well-lit areas.
- Install an anti-theft device.
How much is a scrap catalytic converter worth?
| Metal/Material | Current Price |
|---|---|
| Exotic Cat Exotic catalytic converters are from foreign cars. GET QUOTE VIEW METAL DETAILS | $543.00/each |
| High Grade Domestic Cat Off domestic cars. GET QUOTE VIEW METAL DETAILS | $154.00/each |
| Pre-Domestic Cat Pre-Domestic Cat. GET QUOTE VIEW METAL DETAILS | $32.00/each |
What vehicles have the most valuable scrap 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.
Does insurance cover stolen catalytic converters?
If you have comprehensive coverage on your auto insurance policy, catalytic converter theft is usually covered. Comprehensive coverage may pay to replace the stolen converter and repair any damage caused by its removal.
Why do thieves want catalytic converters?
Thieves are motivated to steal catalytic converters because they contain precious metals, such as platinum and rhodium. Then, the thieves often sell the car parts for money on the black market.The parts are also expensive to replace, ranging between $2,000 to $2,500 for each catalytic converter.
Where can I sell my catalytic converter for the most money?
There are three options when it comes to selling a catalytic converter: auto salvage yards, metal scrap yard, or to an online buyer.
- Local Auto Salvage (easy option)
- Local Scrap Metal Facility (easy option)
- Online Catalytic Converter Buyer (best paying)
- Knowing The Serial Number is The Key to Pricing.
Where is the catalytic converter located on a vehicle?
The catalytic converter is usually on the underside of the car or truck as part of the exhaust system, situated between the engine and the muffler.
How long does it take to steal a catalytic converter?
It can take criminals two to three minutes using tools from a hardware store to swipe your converter, leaving you with a several thousand dollar part to replace. In California, it’s a violation of the state vehicle code to steal a converter. The penalty is a misdemeanor offense.
How do I know if catalytic converter is 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.
How much do they pay for catalytic converters?
Recyclers will pay between $50 and $250 for a catalytic converter, according to the NICB. The metals can be sold for even more if lifted from hybrid gas-electric cars like a Prius. “All the newer hybrid vehicles, they’re going for scrap values of anywhere from $800 to $1,500,” according to Mead.
Are diesel catalytic converters worth anything?
Diesel catalytic converters come from diesel engines. A lot of times the diesel engine cats are not worth too much money due to the lack of precious metals inside like platinum, palladium, and rhodium. However, there are some diesel cats that are worth a decent amount of money.
How much is a Ford F250 catalytic converter worth?
Ford F-250 Super Duty Catalytic Converter Replacement Cost Estimate. Labor costs are estimated between $108 and $136 while parts are priced at $2,335.
What is the best catalytic converter to scrap?
What’s Inside A Catalytic Converter?
- Platinum Platinum being used tends to be the best metal for overall performance in the catalytic converter field.
- Palladium Generally more expensive to use then Platinum, so it tends to be a higher-end luxury item for catalytic converters.
Can I drive if someone stole my catalytic converter?
The good news is, your car will run just fine without a catalytic converter. Because it filters exhaust and emissions, it doesn’t really impact your vehicle’s actual driving capabilities. However, due to environmental protection laws, you could face some hefty fines if you’re caught driving a vehicle without one.
Can a car run without a catalytic converter?
What Happens When You Drive Without A Catalytic Converter? When facing the recovery costs of a stolen cat, many customers wonder, Can I drive without my catalytic converter? The answer is both yes and no. Technically, a car can function without a catalytic converter.
Why are Prius catalytic converters stolen?
Toyota Priuses are also prone to thefts because they contain two catalytic converters and are hybrid vehicles, law enforcement officials and experts say. The converters stolen from Priuses tend to see less corrosion, which makes them more valuable to thieves.
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