Catalytic converter thefts were up 540% in 2022 from rates reported in 2020, according to an analysis by Been Verified. The National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) tracked a dramatic increase between 2018 and 2021. While there are some states in which theft rates have plateaued or even decreased, thefts continue to pose a costly and inconvenient problem nationwide. In this blog post, we will discuss what catalytic converters are, why they’re being targeted, and what vehicle owners can do to protect their cars from theft.
What is a Catalytic Converter?
A catalytic converter is an emissions control device that is installed in the exhaust system of most gasoline-powered vehicles. Its purpose is to convert the engine’s environmentally hazardous exhaust fumes into less harmful gasses, accomplishing this by converting toxic gases and pollutants – such as carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, and nitrogen oxides – into less harmful gases, such as carbon dioxide, water vapor, and nitrogen gas.
Why are Catalytic Converters a Hot Commodity for Thieves?
Catalytic converters contain precious metals (shhh… don’t tell Steve!) such as platinum, palladium, and rhodium, which act as catalysts to help reduce harmful emissions. As of March 31st, rhodium is valued at $8,450 per ounce, palladium at $1,428 per ounce, and platinum is going for $984 per ounce. Typically, recyclers will pay $50 to $250 per catalytic converter. Additionally, catalytic converters are easy to remove from many vehicles – especially ones with high clearance or whose converter(s) are easily accessible from the undercarriage, and hybrids, whose converters contain more precious metals. CARFAX released a list of the Top 10 Most Targeted Vehicles nationwide, broken out by region.
How to Protect Your Car from Catalytic Converter Theft
- Park in Well-Lit Areas: Thieves are less likely to target a car that is parked in a well-lit area where they can be easily seen.
- Install a Security System: Consider installing a car alarm or a catalytic converter protection device that will sound an alarm if the converter is tampered with.
- Have a shield or cage installed around the catalytic converter.
- Have a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) engraved on the Converter. This will make it harder for thieves to sell the converter to scrap metal dealers. Spray painting the converter a bright orange is an additional, low-cost deterrent.
- Be Vigilant: If you notice any suspicious activity in your neighborhood, such as someone crawling under cars or using power tools late at night, report it to the police immediately.
Recently, the Boulder County Sheriff’s Office released a statement introducing a new partnership with the Colorado Auto Theft Prevention Authority (CATPA) to combat catalytic converter theft. By registering here, community members can receive free CatETCH labels, each with a unique identifying number that can be applied to a catalytic converter by the vehicle owner or a mechanic. Catalytic converter labeling will allow identification of your catalytic converter if it’s stolen and later recovered by law enforcement. The unique identification code is entered into a federal database.
It may be that your own local law enforcement, public safety agency, or AAA may have similar programs. You can also reach out to your insurance carrier to see what they offer. Catalytic converter label kits are available for retail purchase, as well. Kits can cost as little as $10, and, if you’re mechanically inclined, can be installed with the help of YouTube. If you prefer, your local mechanic or vehicle repair place can do the work for you (sometimes for free, depending on if your state or city has a participating program).
Catalytic converter theft is a severe problem in many locations, and there is no guarantee that theft prevention strategies will prevent a determined thief from absconding with your catalytic converter. By taking these precautions, you can reduce the risk of becoming a victim, though.