Are you the owner of a new vehicle and wondering if the catalytic converter is at risk of being stolen. With the rise in price of precious metals, catalytic converter thefts also continue to rise. IN 2022, there were 153,000 reported stolen catalytic converters in the U.S. Though state and federal legislators have proposed new laws that make stealing a catalytic converter a felony, cars of all shapes and sizes continue to be targeted by criminals.
This means no matter how new or old your car is, if it's the right place and time for a crook, they may just take a swipe at cutting your catalytic converter from the undercarriage of your car. Some vehicles
Which Vehicles Are Most at Risk for Catalytic Converter Theft?
According to J.D. Power, the car makers least likely to have their catalytic converters stolen are Jeep, Chrysler, Ford, Chevrolet, and Dodge. This is because they contain less valuable metals on the inside of their converter bodies. Even foreign car makers like Subaru, Mazda, and Hyundai also have limited platinum and palladium on the inside of their catalytic converters. Carmakers like VW, Audi, and BMW have their catalytic converters connected to the engine, making it more difficult for thieves to reach. This leaves other car makers like Toyota, Honda at risk.
Two of the most popular vehicle targets for catalytic converter thieves are hybrid-powered vehicles and pickup trucks. The Toyota Prius and Toyota Tundra as well as vehicles like the Honda CR-V and Honda Element.
Because of the easier ground clearance on trucks and SUVs, it is easier for crooks to get beneath the undercarriage with a saw without having to waste time jacking one end of the vehicle up to be able to fit beneath the car. As for hybrid vehicles like the Prius, thieves tend to use a jack to prop up one side of the car to access the catalytic converter. This is because many hybrid vehicles have two catalytic converters, which will contain twice the amount of precious metals.
Are There Catalytic Converter Anti- Theft Shields on New Cars?
Only a handful of hybrid models made today have guarded catalytic converters. It's likely that your new car will still have an exposed converter body at risk of being stolen if not garage kept. Dig more into the Top Car Models that fall victim to catalytic converter theft.
Installing a Catalytic Converter Shield to a Newer Car
For new or used car owners looking to protect their undercarriage from thieves with a hacksaw and the intention to steal a catalytic converter, a cat-shied guard does wonders for protection. Installation and the shield guard are affordable and worth every penny because they prevent criminals from finding an angle to cut at your exhaust pipes. A solid deflector plate that also prevents road debris damage too. Outfit your vehicle with a cat shield and prevent crooks from targeting your car's catalytic converter.