Stolen Catalytic Converters

Catalytic converter theft is skyrocketing across the country. Here's why thieves are after these valuable car parts and what you can do to prevent yours from getting stolen. My catalytic converter was stolen!!

You've probably heard the term "catalytic converter" recently. Unfortunately, it's for all the wrong reasons. Theft of this important car part has skyrocketed in the last few years. In 2019, 3,389 catalytic converters were reported stolen. That number increased 1,215% in 2021. It's all part of a larger crime wave that saw more than 900,000 vehicles stolen in the United States in 2021.

What is a Catalytic Converter? A catalytic converter is an important feature of your car's exhaust system. Its purpose is to limit the amount of harmful pollutants emitted by an internal combustion engine. These devices convert toxic gases found in car emissions into less harmful substances like carbon dioxide and water vapor.

Catalytic converters are filled with precious metals. Most often, these include palladium, rhhodium and platinum. When the engine emissions' harmful gases pass through the device, they make contact with these metals and undergo a chemical reaction.

Why are Catalytic Converters Stolen? There is both a high demand and limited supply of the previous metals contained in these devices. Today, catalytic converters are worth more than gold. Platinum, palladium and rhodium are each worth thousands of dollars per ounce. They can also be removed in minutes.

How to Tell if Your Catalytic Converter is Stolen? You will know immediately if your converter has been stolen. Your car will make a loud, roaring sound!

How to Protect Your Catalytic Converter From Getting Stolen Install an anti-theft device, etch your license plate number or VIN onto the catalytic converter, and park your car in a closed garage or in your driveway.