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 much do thieves get for a Prius catalytic converter?
The better that precious metal coating is preserved, the more thieves can make through illegal trading. Rhodium is commonly used in hybrid catalytic converters, and its value has skyrocketed in recent years, reaching a value of $14,000 per ounce.
Why do thieves target Prius catalytic converters?
Car experts say since the Prius is a hybrid, the catalytic converter corrodes less than on other cars, keeping the precious metal coating in better shape. … Thieves steal catalytic converters to get the precious metals rhodium and platinum.
How do I protect my Prius catalytic converter?
5 Ways to Prevent Catalytic Converter Theft
- Know if you’re a target for catalytic converter theft. …
- Install an anti-theft device on your catalytic converter. …
- Paint your catalytic converter. …
- Set an alarm or camera to catch thieves. …
- Check your car insurance.
Does insurance cover stolen catalytic converters?
A stolen catalytic converter will disconnect the muffler resulting in the noise. … Typically if you have comprehensive coverage on your auto insurance policy, then you’re covered against catalytic converter theft.
Which car catalytic converters are worth the most?
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 Prius 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.
Can you drive a Prius 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.
Where is the catalytic converter located on a Toyota Prius?
Catalytic converters are located under vehicles between the exhaust muffler and the engine.
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.
How much is a stolen catalytic convertor worth?
The metals are expensive, and thieves sell the converters to scrap yards for several hundred dollars per piece, depending on the size of the converter and the current rate on the metals inside it. It can cost you on average up to $2000 to replace a catalytic converter, and it is illegal to drive your car without one.
How can I protect my catalytic converter from being stolen?
Three ways to protect against catalytic converter theft
- 1) Etch your license plate number onto your catalytic converter. This makes the part identifiable to law enforcement. …
- 2) Park in well-lit areas. …
- 3) Install an anti-theft device.
Can you still drive without catalytic converter?
How long can you drive without or with a bad catalytic converter? In general, you can still drive your vehicle even if it doesn’t have a catalytic converter, and it won’t have any impact on the vehicle’s overall performance. However, it is definitely against the law.
Can I run my car 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 painting catalytic converter prevent theft?
By adding bright paint, you can create a visible deterrent to alert thieves to move on. This paint also signals law enforcement and recyclers to look deeper for serial numbers or identification marks. By clearly marking your catalytic converter you will be deterring the theft from happening in the first place.
How many catalytic converters does a Toyota Prius have?
Generally, each car has one catalytic converter per exhaust tube; if a vehicle has a dual exhaust system, it has two catalytic converters.
How do thieves steal a catalytic converter?
Thieves generally steal a catalytic converter by sliding underneath the car and sawing it out of the exhaust system. With a hand-held power saw, the whole operation can take just a few minutes. Thieves target new cars because the concentration of valuable rare metals in a catalytic converter degrades over time.
What part of the catalytic converter is worth money?
Small amounts of rhodium are also found within a catalytic converter. Rhodium, like platinum and palladium, is very rare and valuable. Even though the monolith is the most valuable part, recyclers are almost always buying the full converter and extract the ceramic themself in order to avoid depreciation or fraud.
How much is a 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.
Are old catalytic converters worth?
Are your old catalytic converters worth money? Yes, they are! Indeed, they contain some precious metals that are rare and valuable. Thus, consider recycling them instead of throwing them away!
How much does a Prius catalytic converter cost?
Toyota Prius Catalytic Converter Replacement Cost Estimate. Labor costs are estimated between $84 and $106 while parts are priced between $2,053 and $2,056.