Why Are Prius Catalytic Converters So Expensive?

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. It’s also one of the most expensive to replace, costing between $2700 and $4100.

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.

Can a Prius run 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.

How much is a catalytic converter cost?

For most vehicles, the average cost of a catalytic converter repair is between $945 and $2475 including parts and labor. The catalytic converter cost itself can be up to $2250 of that. That might be close to your car’s value or more!

How do I know if my catalytic converter is missing in my Prius?

You will see a gaping space in the middle of your exhaust if the converter is missing, and you will likely see signs of the piping being cut away.” Toxic fumes will likely be easy to smell without it, too, according to the Balance.

Why do Prius catalytic converters get stolen?

That’s why the Prius comes with some of the best catalytic converters installed on commercial vehicles. Hybrid cars are mainly targeted for their converters because they corrode much less. The better that precious metal coating is preserved, the more thieves can make through illegal trading.

What year Prius are catalytic converters stolen?

Thieves are specifically targeting 2004-2009 Prius, though model years up to 2015 have experienced increased theft of the catalytic converter. Even under lock and key, in lit parking lots, behind fences, under video surveillance, thieves are stealing these parts.

How much is a used Toyota Prius catalytic converter worth?

A good large cat converter (as they are called for short) can fetch anywhere from $30 to $300 depending the size and density of the converter. This means that the Toyota Prius is a prime target.

Where is Prius catalytic converter located?

Catalytic converters are located under vehicles between the exhaust muffler and the engine. Their main function is to reduce pollutants before they exit the exhaust.

Will insurance cover a stolen catalytic converter?

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.

How much does it cost to replace a stolen catalytic converter?

A skilled thief can steal your catalytic converter in less than 5 minutes. The average cost to replace a catalytic converter is nearly $4000. The average theft deterrent enhancement is about $150. Your catalytic converter is attached to your exhaust system and is located underneath your car.

What a Prius sounds like without a catalytic converter?

As mentioned, with the exhaust gases not reaching the aptly called mufflers, a cut between the front exhaust manifold and the rear muffler housing means your Prius will sound like a tiny tractor.

What car has most catalytic converters stolen?

Vehicles that have had the most thefts are: Toyota Prius, SUV’s of all makes, Pick up Trucks of all makes, van’s (mostly Honda), passenger cars (mostly Honda), 2 U-Haul trucks. Gov. Roy Cooper recently signed a bill that makes catalytic converter theft a felony.

How long does it take to steal a catalytic converter?

It can take criminals two to three minutes using tools from a hardware store to swipe your converter, leaving you with a several thousand dollar part to replace. In California, it’s a violation of the state vehicle code to steal a converter. The penalty is a misdemeanor offense.

Does a Prius have a Cadillac converter?

As an ultra low-emissions vehicle, the Prius has a catalytic converter that contains more of the rhodium, palladium and platinum that render pollutants harmless.

Which cars have the most expensive catalytic converters?

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 much is a 2010 Prius catalytic converter?

2010 Toyota Prius Catalytic Converter – from $833.99+ | AutoZone.com.

Can your 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.

Why are catalytic converters so expensive?

Mainly because of the precious metals that are included in the converter, such as platinum, or platinum-like material such as palladium or rhodium. So, the more expensive the material, the more expensive it is to replace.

Is it worth fixing a catalytic converter?

The engine could have bad seals or gaskets that are causing antifreeze or unburned fuel to enter the exhaust system. In this case, the converter is probably not worth replacing because the new part will quickly become damaged as well. Unless you address the underlying cause, then the problem will continue.

What happens if I don’t fix my catalytic converter?

If your catalytic converter is too badly clogged that’s going to decrease your engine’s ability to perform the way you expect it to. That’s because your engine won’t be able to vent exhaust the way it normally does because the converter is clogged for venting the natural flow of gases.