Why Are Catalytic Converters Being Stolen?

Thieves target catalytic converters because

they contain precious metals

, like platinum, palladium or rhodium, that are valuable to metal dealers. … Detectives suggest several deterrents for protecting catalytic converters.

How much is a stolen catalytic converter worth?

While a stolen catalytic converter can fetch a few hundred dollars at a metal recycler, victims pay an

average of $1,000

to replace it, according to the Orange County Sheriff’s Department.

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.

How can I prevent my catalytic converter from being stolen?

1. 1) Etch your license plate number onto your catalytic converter. This makes the part identifiable to law enforcement. …
2. 2) Park in well-lit areas. …
3. 3) Install an anti-theft device.

Is it common for catalytic converters to be stolen?

Thefts of catalytic converters have skyrocketed from an average of 108 per month in 2018 to 2,347 in December 2020. … Thefts of catalytic converters have skyrocketed from an average of 108 per month in 2018 to 2,347 in December 2020, according to the National Insurance Crime Bureau.

Does insurance cover stolen catalytic converters?

Is a stolen catalytic converter covered by insurance?

If you have comprehensive coverage on your

auto insurance policy, then you’re typically covered against catalytic converter theft. Comprehensive coverage will typically pay to replace the stolen catalytic converter and repair any related damage from its removal.

What are the most valuable catalytic converters to scrap?

Catalytic converters have economic value as they contain precious metals. This is the main reason why they are sold as the most expensive scrap. Because it contains

rhodium, palladium and platinum

, which are among the most precious metals.

How long does it take to steal a catalytic converter?

“You can turn around and turn it into the junkyard and sell it and get money off of it.” Harker says it takes only

five to ten minutes

for the entire process. Another mechanic says it could take as little as 30 seconds to saw off one side of the converter.

How much rhodium is in a catalytic converter?

Nowadays, rhodium price per gram is around $287. Although the quantities vary by model, on average, only one standard catalytic converter contains about 3-7 grams of platinum, 2-7 grams of palladium,

1-2 grams rhodium

. That provides serious gains when tons of scrap catalytic converters are recovered.

What car has the most expensive catalytic converter?

Which Catalytic Converters Are The Most Expensive? According to data from 2020, the most expensive catalytic converter belonged to

the Ferrari F430

, with a mind-popping $3,770.00 price tag.

How do I know if my catalytic convertor 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.

How much platinum is in a catalytic converter?

There are

between 3-7 grams

of platinum group metals in a standard catalytic converter, but the amount varies based on manufacturer and model. In terms of the extent to which they are used, there are generally around 3 to 7 grams of PGMs in a standard catalytic converter.

Can a car run without a catalytic converter?

As a general rule,

yes you can drive without a catalytic converter

. Driving without a catalytic converter will not damage the engine or the car in any way. However, it may be illegal to drive without a catalytic converter in your state and it is likely that your vehicle will fail an emissions test.

Does removing catalytic converter affect engine?

Since removing a catalytic converter

lessens

the burden on a car’s engine by enabling engine exhaust to vacate the engine more easily, a net effect is a reduction in engine operating temperature.

What does a car sound like with no catalytic converter?

Loud Vehicle Noises and Missing Catalytic Converter

The first sign of a stolen catalytic converter is incredibly loud vehicle noises. You will find that when driving without your catalytic converter, it will

sound like your vehicle is roaring

—especially when starting or giving it gas.

How much is a diesel catalytic converter worth?