Drive a Ford, Honda or Toyota? Good news: Catalytic converter thefts are down nationwide

Catalytic converter thefts broke records last year but are declining nationwide and in nearly every state as the prices of precious metals tumble.

Thefts fell in the first half of this year, according to new data shared exclusively with USA TODAY. BeenVerified estimates there were 26,742 catalytic converter thefts in the U.S. between January and June. That's down 43% from the same period last year.

Washington, Oregon and Hawaii saw the largest decrease in thefts in the first six months of 2023. Only one state saw an increase: Thefts in New Jersey jumped 25%.

It’s not all good news for car owners. Catalytic converter thefts are still nearly 21 times higher than in 2019 before the catalytic converter crime spree began, according to the data company.

“I am not sure that the consumer is seeing the benefit yet from the decrease in catalytic converter thefts,” said Kerry Sherin, senior public relations manager for BeenVerified, which analyzed catalytic converter theft data from the National Insurance Crime Bureau and search data from Google. “There is still a significant amount of theft."

How much does it cost to replace a catalytic converter?

Thefts accelerated in 2020 then exploded in 2021, costing car owners time and money.

Replacing the catalytic converter which is specific to the make and model of the car can run thousands of dollars and take weeks depending on part availability. Even if the theft is covered by insurance, car owners are still on the hook for the deductible.

"We know consumers are still experiencing this problem and they are often having to pay for it out of pocket," Sherin said.

What is a catalytic converter?

A catalytic converter is a metal cylinder on the underside of gas-powered cars between the engine and the muffler that cleans harmful emissions. 

Why are catalytic converters stolen so much?

The core contains precious metals which can be extracted and resold. 

Higher prices for platinum, palladium and rhodium coupled with supply constraints during the COVID-19 pandemic fueled the catalytic converter crime wave.

How does someone steal your catalytic converter?

Thieves, known as “cutters,” can remove catalytic converters with a battery-operated saw in minutes.

How much is a stolen catalytic converter worth?

Cutters sell catalytic converters to scrap recyclers for hundreds of dollars.

What’s slowing the catalytic converter crime wave?

Stolen catalytic converters aren’t worth as much anymore. The price of palladium has fallen in recent months. Platinum prices have also fallen.

A crackdown by state and local authorities may also be working. BeenVerified says 42 states have enacted legislation since 2021, tightening restrictions on scrap recyclers and stiffening penalties including prison time and fines.

Which cars are most likely to have catalytic converters stolen?

According to Carfax, targeted vehicles range from family sedans such as the Honda Accord to full-size pickup trucks from Ford and GM. Hybrid vehicles are a top target because their catalytic converters contain more precious metals.

The top vehicles targeted nationwide are:

◾ Ford F-series

◾ Honda Accord

◾ Toyota Prius

◾ Honda CR-V

◾ Ford Explorer

◾ Ford Econoline

◾ Chevrolet Equinox

◾ Chevrolet Silverado

◾ Toyota Tacoma

◾ Chevrolet Cruze

Does your insurance cover catalytic converter theft?

Only comprehensive insurance covers catalytic converter theft. Consider comprehensive insurance or lowering your deductible if you live in a high-risk area or if you have a vehicle that is commonly targeted. 

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Which states have the most catalytic converter thefts?

California and Texas are the top states for catalytic converter thefts so far this year. California had the largest number of total thefts at 6,988, followed by Texas (2,235), New York (2,071), New Jersey (1,400) and Illinois (1,354).

How to protect your catalytic converter

◾ Install a catalytic converter anti-theft device such as a cable cage or clamp.

◾ When possible, park your car in a locked garage or in a well-lit area. Install motion-activated lights and security cameras.

◾ Make your car alarm more sensitive or put motion alarms under your vehicle. 

◾ In public parking garages and lots, park near the front of the building entrance or other areas with high pedestrian traffic.

◾ Engrave your vehicle VIN into your catalytic converter.

How do you know if your catalytic converter was stolen?

When your catalytic converter is stolen, your car will make a roaring sound that gets louder when you put your foot on the gas. It might also make a sputtering sound when you accelerate and you may notice an increase in exhaust smells.

What to do if your catalytic converter is stolen?

Do not drive your car. Report the theft to law enforcement and your insurance company.