Catalytic converter theft has skyrocketed. In fact, it’s fast becoming one of the fastest-growing crimes in the United States. Between 2021 and 2022, catalytic converter theft increased by 109% in the United States. Unfortunately, thousands of these thefts are going unsolved, and only 1% of catalytic converter theft crimes end up with someone being charged.
Why Are Thieves Stealing Catalytic Converters?
The reason for converter theft is the cause of any theft – money. The platinum, palladium, and rhodium used in these parts are quite precious. For instance, rhodium goes for about $20,000 an ounce, while palladium and platinum cost approximately $3,000 and $1,128, respectively. However, these metals are only found in converters in very small amounts, which explains why thieves resort to targeting multiple vehicles at once. However, on average, scrap catalytic converters are worth between $300 and $1500 when sold as scrap at your local scrap yard.
What Can You Do to Prevent Catalytic Converter Theft?
There are several things you can do to prevent thieves from stealing your catalytic converter. For instance, you can install motion sensors and lights where you park. This is especially important if you don’t have off-street parking.
One of the best ways to prevent converter theft is to use anti-theft devices. For example, you can install a Catalytic Converter Alarm. The device can produce up to a 113-decibel blast, which is almost as loud as a rock band. Anyone trying to remove your converter will trigger an unexpected blast that’ll likely send any thief away.
You can also prevent your converter from being stolen by using a CatClamp. This device encases your converter in aircraft-grade wire ropes that are quite difficult to cut, especially considering that thieves only have a short amount of time to act.
There’s also another device known as a Catloc. This functions pretty much the same way as the CatClamp. It encases your converter, making it super difficult to access.
Another way to prevent converter theft is to have yours marked. This will make it possible to identify and track back to your vehicle should someone succeed in stealing it. To have your converter marked, you can approach the police. Some vehicle manufacturers will mark your converter for free.
Does Insurance Cover Stolen Catalytic Converters?
If you have comprehensive insurance, your policy will likely cover catalytic convert theft. However, this may vary from one insurance company to another. As a result, you should go through your policy or talk to your agent to confirm coverage.
The cost of replacing your catalytic converter depends on where you live. In some states, you will need what’s known as a CARB-compliant replacement. On the other hand, some areas will be ok with you using a universal converter. In general, replacements may cost you about two to three thousand dollars.
Catalytic converter replacement can be quite expensive. As such, you should do all you can to ensure yours is safe. It’s encouraged to generally try to park your car in a closed garage if you have one. If you don’t, you can at least park the vehicle next to a wall. This can make it difficult for thieves to access the converter. Interested in finding out more about how to prevent catalytic converter theft? Get in touch with us today for more information. We would love to hear from you.
