Catalytic converter theft has skyrocketed. It’s quickly 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, with Arizona leading the way over most 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 another device known as a Catloc. This functions much the same way as the CatClamp. It encases your converter, making it very 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 ask your local police department. Some
vehicle manufacturers will mark your converter for free.
Does Insurance Cover Stolen Catalytic Converters?
If the vehicle has comprehensive coverage, the auto policy will likely cover catalytic converter theft, subject to your deductible.
Catalytic converter replacement can be quite expensive; generally, $1500 to $3000. As such, you should do all you can to ensure yours is safe. It’s encouraged to park your car in a closed garage if you have one. If you don’t, Phoenix Police recommend backing
your vehicle into a parking spot or parking next to a wall. This can make it difficult for thieves to access the converter.
Theft of autos and/or their parts, is a major contributor to higher insurance premiums. Anytime you can make it harder or less attractive for someone to steal from you, you’re not only a crime fighter, but you’re also fighting higher insurance premiums as well.
We hope you never experience the unpleasantness and inconvenience of any kind of theft; however, we’re here for you if you do, even if you just want to ask us a question or request more information. We would love to hear from you!
