If you find yourself wondering how to protect yourself from catalytic converter theft, you’re not alone. Catalytic converter theft can lead to expensive replacement and repairs, plus potential fines for non-compliance with federal regulations. Here’s everything you need to know about catalytic converters and theft prevention.
What is a catalytic converter?
A catalytic converter is a part of your engine’s exhaust system; a group of parts that work together to reduce emissions and engine noise. Catalytic converters are made from palladium, platinum and rhodium; these are rare metals which coat a ceramic interior that’s shaped like a honeycomb or bead. You can find it located between a car’s intake manifold and muffler. [1]
What does a catalytic converter do?
The catalytic converter converts the more hazardous compounds of your engine’s emissions into less threatening gasses to help keep them from harming people and the environment. These harmful compounds include nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons. [1]
Do all cars have catalytic converters?
Catalytic converters have been required in all gas-powered U.S. vehicles since 1975. It is considered dangerous and illegal to operate a car without a catalytic converter or with a faulty one, so if yours has been stolen or damaged, you will need to replace it promptly. [1]
Why do people steal catalytic converters?
Catalytic converters are often stolen then sold for the precious metals they’re made of (palladium, platinum and rhodium). [2]
Which cars are the most and least likely to have a catalytic converter stolen?
When it comes to catalytic converter theft, some car models may be more vulnerable than others. Analysts say these are the most common targets: [2]
- Hybrid cars
- Catalytic converters in these cars tend to hold up better than in other vehicles because their gasoline engine isn’t used as often as its electric-powered one, so catalytic converters on these cars remain in better condition and contain more precious metals.
- SUVs and trucks
- These vehicles are believed to be targeted by thieves because they sit high off the ground, making it easier to get underneath them to steal their catalytic converters.
These types of vehicles seem to be less popular among criminals, although cat theft is still a possibility: [3] [4]
- Cars that are low to the ground
- It’s more difficult for someone to access the car part without someone noticing.
- Electric cars and cars manufactured before 1974
- These cars don’t have catalytic converters.
How do I know if my catalytic converter has been stolen?
There are several tell-tale signs that your catalytic converter may have been stolen, including: [5] [6]
- Smell of exhaust emissions: Without a catalytic converter, cars emit higher levels of harmful emissions and pollutants such as nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons. You may smell these fumes more if your catalytic converter was stolen.
- Dashboard warning lights: A stolen catalytic converter may trigger warning lights in your vehicle.
- Loud exhaust noise: You may notice your car is noisier than usual because catalytic converters reduce the noise coming from the exhaust.
- Visible damage: If your catalytic converter was stolen, you may see related damage to your car left by the thieves.
- Vehicle inspection/emissions failure: Many states require an emissions test, or smog check, to measure your car’s emissions and ability to track the pollutants it releases. Without a catalytic converter, your car will fail the emissions test. If you fail the test, you cannot drive your car until repairs are made and you pass another test.
Catalytic converter theft protection
Check out these five tips to protect your catalytic converter from theft. [2] [7]
- Park your car in a garage or enclosed space when possible.
- Find a well-lit, highly visible location near security cameras if possible.
- Park your car close to others or in a place that would make it difficult for thieves to gain access to your undercarriage.
- You can also etch your car’s license plate or VIN number into the catalytic converter so it can be more easily traced if stolen.
- As another safeguard, your mechanic can install an anti-theft device, such as a cage, wrap, or shield, which can cover your catalytic converter.
Does insurance cover catalytic converter theft?
Not all insurance plans are created equal when it comes to covering catalytic converter theft. You should consider the following if you need to file a claim:
- Coverage options: Comprehensive insurance plans typically cover damage to your car not caused by collision. This may cover catalytic converter loss, but you should confirm by checking your auto insurance policy or speak with an agent.
- Limits: Review your insurance policy’s section on limits, which explains how much the insurer will pay for specific losses.
- Cost: The cost of replacing a stolen catalytic converter varies, depending on if it is a direct-fit or a universal-fit unit. A universal fit unit can cost up to several thousand dollars, while a direct-fit converter can cost several hundred to several thousand dollars. Additionally, you should factor in labor costs. [8]
How to file a claim for a stolen catalytic converter
If your catalytic converter was stolen, you can contact your insurer to determine if your current auto insurance policy will cover the replacement cost. Take the following steps to file a claim:
- File a police report. Explain what happened and which car part was stolen.
- Contact your insurance company. Call your insurance company to file a claim. Nationwide gives you the option to file a claim online or by phone. You can also track your claim.
Find out how Nationwide auto insurance may help cover your vehicle if your catalytic converter gets stolen.
Sources
[1] “What is the Catalytic Converter and What Does it Do?” autozone.com/diy/exhaust/what-is-the-catalytic-converter-and-what-does-it-do (Accessed February 2025).
[2] “What Cars Are Targeted for Catalytic Converter Theft the Most Often?” carparts.com/blog/what-cars-are-targeted-for-catalytic-converter-theft-the-most-often/ (Accessed February 2025).
[3] “Which Vehicles Have the Most Stolen Catalytic Converters?” bossecurity.com/2024/09/15/which-vehicles-have-the-most-stolen-catalytic-converters/ (Accessed February 2025).
[4] “Which cars are most likely to have their catalytic converter stolen?” rafilawfirm.com/learn/which-cars-are-most-likely-to-have-their-catalytic-converter-stolen/ (Accessed February 2025).
[5] “Can You Drive without a Catalytic Converter?” autozone.com/diy/catalytic-converter/can-you-drive-without-a-catalytic-converter (Accessed February 2025).
[6] United States Environmental Protection Agency Fact Sheet: Exhaust System Repair Guidelines, epa.gov/sites/default/files/documents/exhsysrepair.pdf (Accessed February 2025).
[7] “How to Theft-Proof Your Catalytic Converter,” realtruck.com/blog/how-to-theft-proof-your-catalytic-converter/ (Accessed February 2025).
[8] “How Much Does a Catalytic Converter Replacement Cost?” autozone.com/diy/exhaust/how-much-does-a-catalytic-converter-replacement-cost (February 2025).
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