Toyota Prius owners might want to leave their cars in the garage tonight since, according to a new list from Carfax, these hybrid cars are the #1 target for catalytic converter theft in the West.
This week, the vehicle history company published a list of the top cars in the nation that are prime candidates for their catalytic converters. Ford F-Series pickup trucks from 1985 to 2021 and Honda Accords from 1989 to 2020 are at the top of the list nationwide, but the Toyota Prius, which was ranked No. 10 nationally as a target, is No. 1 in the West.
In order to create its lists, Carfax examined service records for new catalytic converter installations from more than 60,000 repair facilities nationwide between 2019 and the first three months of 2022.
The top vehicles in the West that catalytic converter thieves target are:
- 2001–present Toyota Prius
- Ford F-Series from 1985 to 2021
- Honda Accord 1989–2020
- Ford Econoline 1990–2022
- 1999-2021 a Chevy Silverado
- Subaru Outback, 2007–20
- Jeep Patriot, 2007–2017
- Element Honda 2003–2011
- Forester Subaru, 1998-2020
- Toyota Tacoma, 1995–2021
The National Insurance Crime Bureau reports that during the pandemic, catalytic converter thefts increased dramatically across the nation, rising by more than 325% in just one year. Due to the rising value of the precious metals used in catalytic converters, these thefts increased, with thieves earning up to $300 for a typical catalytic converter. Due to the higher amount of precious metals used in hybrid vehicles, a catalytic converter stolen from one can fetch up to $1,400.
While waiting for their vehicles to be repaired, owners may have to spend between $1,000 and $3,000 out of pocket.
Vehicle owners should aim to park in well-lit places and be mindful of their surroundings if parking in a garage is not an option. Owners of vehicles might also think about installing an anti-theft device or having their converters laser-etched with the VIN.
In This Article...
Which automobiles are most susceptible to having their catalytic converters stolen?
These are the vehicles that need catalytic converters the most.
- Ford F-Series pickup trucks from 1985 to 2021 (F-150, F-250, etc.)
- Honda Accord: 1989–2020.
- Jeep Patriot, 2007–2017.
- Ford Econoline vans from 1990 to 222.
- Chevrolet Silverado pickup trucks from 1999 to 2021.
- Chevy Equinox, model years 2005–21.
- Honda CR-V, which is available from 1997 until 2020.
- Toyota Camry, 1987–2019.
What is the cost of a Toyota catalytic converter?
When sold as scrap, Toyota catalytic converters can fetch between $75 and $700. Depending on the brand and model of the car, a catalytic converter’s price can change. The Toyota Prius has some of the most expensive catalytic converters.
What models of Toyota catalytic converters are stolen?
A study on the growing nationwide catalytic converter theft trend was just published by NICB. According to the data, catalytic converter thieves favor some automobiles over others in California.
In California over the last three years, the Toyota Prius, Honda Element, Honda Accord, Ford Econoline, Honda CRV, Ford F-250, Toyota Tundra, Toyota Sequoia, Ford Excursion, and Toyota Tacoma have been the most often targeted vehicles for catalytic converter theft.
This article’s information is of a broad nature. Please get in touch with the qualified individual that the Region has identified if you are a member of the NICB or a member of law enforcement and are interested in more specific information. We won’t give the public any further information because of the private nature of our investigations.
Please remember that everyone who has been accused of a crime, detained, or indicted should be treated as innocent until and unless they are found guilty.
What steps is Toyota doing to combat catalytic converter theft?
Toyota (GB) declared in May 2021 that it will surreptitiously mark more than 100,000 catalytic converters to deter theft. By collaborating with law enforcement and Smartwater, catalytic converters can be marked with an undetectable yet traceable marking, enabling police to link a stolen catalytic converter to a specific crime and aid organized gangs in their attempts to commit that crime. All people handling the gadgets along the criminal supply chain, from theft to final destruction and recycling, are likewise put at greater risk.
The catalytic converter marking service is free; clients only need to make an appointment by calling their neighborhood Toyota or Lexus dealer.
Toyota has also provided 20,000 Smartwater kits to local law enforcement to aid in their anti-catalyst theft campaigns. In order for its patrols to direct consumers to locations where they may receive a free kit, the business is also collaborating with Toyota’s roadside partner, the AA.
We have also created the “Catloc” gadget, which can hinder theft and make it more difficult, and decreased the cost of it. Toyota teams are actively investigating new technical options to dissuade crooks in the UK and other nations.
We are collaborating with the police and the administration to modify the rules regarding the selling of scrap metal in order to make it more difficult for criminals to sell stolen catalysts for money.
However, since these are illegal activities, our options are constrained. Several police departments are taking action, and other departments, like Nottinghamshire, are also launching awareness campaigns. Anyone who is a victim of this crime must immediately report it to their local police force. This is crucial.
The latest generations of Toyota catalytic converters contain significantly less precious metals than earlier generations while performing their functions just as well or even better; as a result, their value for recycling is extremely low and they are not attractive to thieves. As a result, older cars continue to be targeted.
Does a Catloc give my car 100% protection from thieves?
Awfully, no. It can make theft more challenging, but since thieves are utilizing powerful cutting equipment to remove catalytic converters, it is impossible to make them “unstealable.” A Catloc slows down criminals and serves as a deterrent by making it more difficult to steal a catalytic converter. As previously said, we are making every effort to look for other technological choices for customers.
How can I prevent a theft of my catalytic converter?
Use a locked garage, regularly shift your car’s place, or park in well-lit areas close to exits for the general public. Install a theft prevention device. Install cameras and motion-activated lights in your parking area. Some local police departments even provide free painting programs to dissuade purchasers by painting your catalytic converter.
A catalytic converter is not required for an automobile to operate.
The catalytic converter works as a component of an automobile’s exhaust system to lessen air pollution. Driving without a catalytic converter won’t in any way harm your engine or your vehicle.
Which automobile has the most expensive catalytic converter?
The Ferrari F430 reportedly had the most costly catalytic converter, with a whopping $3,770.00 price tag, according to data from 2020. In addition, the F430 required two of these, costing $7,540 before labor for a complete replacement.
Despite the fact that the converter for the Lamborghini Aventador is officially the third most expensive, at $3,120, we’re ranking it second since, like the F430, it needs two converters. The total cost of replacement now stands at $6,240. If you can buy a Ferrari or a Lamborghini, you can probably afford a catalytic converter at any price, it practically goes without saying.
Although it is not as unique as a Lamborghini or a Ferrari, the car with the second (or third) most expensive catalytic converter has a highly well-regarded vehicle line. The Ram 2500, which costs $3,460 for a catalytic converter, has that distinction.
The Ford F-250, which is the fourth most costly car, will cost drivers $2,804, which is a big discount from the top three. The Ford Mustang rounds out the top five with a comparatively low price tag of $1,500. Depending on the type and model of the car, the average catalytic converter costs between $800 and $1,200. In general, the converter costs more the bigger the engine.
Remember that only the cost of the converter unit is included in these costs. If you have a damaged converter, additional exhaust components and labor costs may increase the overall cost of repair.
How quickly can a catalytic converter be stolen?
How Are They Taken By Thieves? Unfortunately, it’s fairly simple to steal a catalytic converter. Typically, thieves use a reciprocating saw powered by a battery to slide underneath a car and cut the exhaust line directly. It takes around two to three minutes and generates the same amount of noise as any power tool.
How can I tell whether a catalytic converter is from Toyota?
Toyota Catalytic Converter Identification
- Toyota catalytic converters often have three-digit serial numbers that are a mix of numbers and letters. Example serial numbers include GD3, EA5, EA6, X16, and X18.
- On some serial numbers, there will be a “L” or a “R.” The price difference is significant. Sample of a serial number is L21707.
What is the catalytic converter warranty for Toyota?
The Toyota warranty is divided into sections that cover particular parts. The warranty handbook that comes with your car and is also available online from Toyota goes into great detail on these. The Toyota warranty is made up of the following broad coverages, in that order:
- Toyota increased its hybrid warranty for cars made in 2020 and beyond from 8 years/100,000 miles to 10 years/150,000 miles. This warranty covers problems with the electric drivetrain system, hybrid battery, and other hybrid-related parts.
- Guarantee on Accessories: This warranty applies to any Toyota accessories installed on the car at the time of purchase. The warranty period for aftermarket accessories begins one year after the date of installation.
- Toyota’s bumper-to-bumper warranty, known as Basic Coverage, essentially covers all mechanical and electrical components with the exception of a few items listed in the warranty handbook.
- Restraint Systems Warranty: This takes effect if your seat belts or air bags aren’t working properly.
- Toyota will repair sheet metal body panels that rust through within the first five years of ownership. Corrosion Perforation Warranty.
- Powertrain Warranty: The engine, transmission, drive axles, and other moving parts of your automobile are covered by this Toyota warranty.
- Emission Control Warranty: Each part’s warranty period is different. The guarantee period for parts like the fuel tank and exhaust manifold is three years and three thousand miles, while the warranty period for the catalytic converter and the engine control module is eight years and eight thousand miles.
Can a catalytic converter be painted to deter theft?
Purchase some brightly colored, high-temperature (1,300–2,000 0F), automotive exhaust spray paint, and liberally coat the converter with it.
Bright paint can be added to create a visual deterrent to warn burglars to leave.
Additionally, this paint alerts recyclers and law enforcement to dig more deeply for serial numbers or other identifiers.
By prominently identifying your catalytic converter, you can prevent theft from ever occurring. The following are additional strategies to safeguard your vehicles from this auto crime:
- Place your car in a garage or other enclosed space.
- Fleet cars and vehicles with little use should be parked in a yard that is secure, alarm-equipped, and well-lit.
- Install a theft prevention device.
- Always set the alarm and lock the car.
- Install a powerful motion sensor light to deter robbers.
What vehicles have the lowest risk of having their catalytic converters stolen?
The likelihood of a catalytic converter being stolen from a car is far lower if it is installed in the engine compartment. Catalysts are often less valuable for many American and some Asian auto companies. You can also purchase a car that is older, electric, diesel, or without a catalytic converter.
Certain Brand Cars
Due to the lower value of their catalytic converters, American brands like Ford, Chevy, Jeep, Dodge, and Chrysler are less likely to be stolen. This group includes several Nissan, Hyundai, Mazda, and Subaru cars.
Many brands employed cat-inspired designs that constrained the amount of precious metals present. The majority of thieves conduct adequate research to know to avoid using these brands.
Cars with Converters in the Engine Compartment
Instead of being further back on the vehicle’s exhaust system, the catalytic converter is often positioned in the engine compartment of some vehicles. It is significantly more challenging for a burglar to take it because of this design.
Theft will move on to a different model since no one wants to put in the extra effort to get to these kitties. This category includes numerous automobiles, including those made by Audi, BMW, Honda, and Volkswagen.