If you thought that catalytic converter theft had gone away, think again. In fact, according to some sources, the number of thefts is actually continuing to increase.

In a recent report from Carfax, it was announced that 153,000 catalytic converters were stolen in 2022 alone. Totals previously reported by other sources were lower than this because many of the figures came from insurance companies that covered the theft. In Carfax’s report, however, the number also includes catalytic converters replaced at local auto repair shops that were NOT covered by insurance.

Why is catalytic converter theft happening?

First, it’s important to realize that catalytic converter theft really isn’t a new thing. In fact, it’s been happening for years, but there has been an increase in thefts reported during the last few years.

Catalytic converters, an essential part of the emissions system in vehicles, contain precious metals. These include platinum, palladium, and rhodium. Why is this important? Simply because these metals fetch a high price on the black market and thieves know it.

In addition, catalytic converters are relatively easy to steal. The entire process can often happen in just a few minutes, making it easy for a thief to get away quickly without much risk of being caught.  They simply use power tools to cut the converter out of the vehicle’s exhaust system. Then, they sell the stolen parts for quick cash.

What vehicles do catalytic converter thieves target?

Essentially, thieves are looking for vehicles that they can access quickly and be able to make a clean getaway without anyone seeing them in the act. That means they often target vehicles parked in isolated or poorly lit areas, such as dark parking lots or residential streets. They may also target hybrid cars since the catalytic converters in these vehicles have a higher concentration of the precious metals the thieves are after.

In addition to where you park and whether your vehicle is a hybrid, it also matters where you live. For example, higher theft rates are often reported in cities or areas with larger populations.

Carfax also identified these top 10 vehicles targeted by catalytic converter thieves in the Southwest:

1. Ford F-series trucks
2. Toyota Tundra
3. Toyota Tacoma
4. Chevrolet Silverado
5. Toyota Prius
6. Honda Accord
7. Ford Expedition
8. Honda CR-V
9. Mitsubishi Outlander
10. Ford Explorer

Many of the vehicles on this list are targets because their catalytic converters are especially easy to access.

How to prevent catalytic converter theft

The theft of catalytic converters can cause significant damage to vehicles as the converters are an integral part of the exhaust system. Replacing a stolen catalytic converter can also be expensive, costing hundreds or even thousands of dollars, depending on the make and model of the vehicle. To prevent theft, some vehicle owners may choose to install protective devices, such as shields or alarms, or park in well-lit and secure areas.

While these theft prevention measures are a great start, we recommend taking it a step further. At our Tempe auto repair shop, we offer catalytic converter theft deterrent services. This includes painting the catalytic converter bright orange (makes it easier to identify as a stolen part), etching the VIN onto the converter, and installing a shield to make the converter more difficult to access.

Simply give us a call or schedule an appointment online today and let’s work together to keep catalytic converter theft from happening to YOU!