What is the car part that everyone steals?

Catalytic Converters
These are some of the most common stolen car parts affecting the car's functioning. One of the signs is a loud roaring sound that your car makes. People steal catalytic converters because they contain metals such as rhodium, palladium, and platinum. These metals are a source of quick money.


What car parts do people steal the most?

Here are nine commonly stolen car parts or items and tips to prevent theft so you don't become a victim.
  1. Tires and Wheels. If you've bought new tires and/or wheels recently, you know they can get expensive. ...
  2. Tailgates. ...
  3. Batteries. ...
  4. Catalytic Converters. ...
  5. Stereo Systems. ...
  6. Third Row Seats. ...
  7. Registration. ...
  8. Garage Door Openers.


What piece are people stealing from cars?

Catalytic converters are regularly targeted car parts, sometimes stolen right out of driveways. The theft can cause car owners headaches and up to thousands of dollars. Detectives identified a man in August 2022 who led a $22 million catalytic converter trafficking operation based in Oregon and spanning six states.


How much is a stolen catalytic converter worth?

Thieves sell the converters, which can be removed in minutes with an electric saw, for $50 to $250, the bureau wrote in a statement.

Why are catalytic converters being stolen so much?

Today, catalytic converters are worth more than gold – literally. Platinum, palladium and rhodium are each worth thousands of dollars per ounce. Catalytic converters typically have just a few combined grams of these metals. That would still fetch a price of at least a few hundred dollars, possibly up to $1,000.


How many parts can you take off a car?



Will a car run without a catalytic converter?

Technically, a car can function without a catalytic converter. However, this is not a sustainable long-term option.

Which cars are targeted for catalytic converters?

Most Targeted Cars Nationwide
  • 1985-2021 Ford F-Series.
  • 1989-2020 Honda Accord.
  • 2007-17 Jeep Patriot.
  • 1990-2022 Ford Econoline.
  • 1999-2021 Chevrolet Silverado.
  • 2005-21 Chevrolet Equinox.
  • 1997-2020 Honda CR-V.
  • 1987-2019 Toyota Camry.


Will insurance cover if your catalytic converter is stolen?

Is a stolen catalytic converter covered by insurance? If you have comprehensive coverage on your auto insurance policy, then you're typically covered against catalytic converter theft. Comprehensive coverage will typically pay to replace the stolen catalytic converter and repair any related damage from its removal.


How do you park to prevent catalytic converter theft?

How can I prevent catalytic converter thefts?
  1. Park your vehicle in a closed and locked garage when possible.
  2. When parking in a public lot, park your vehicle close to a building entrance or to the nearest access road, where there is an increase in pedestrian traffic.


How do I stop someone from stealing my catalytic converter?

Tips for avoiding catalytic converter theft
  1. Know if you're a target for catalytic converter theft. ...
  2. Install an anti-theft device on your catalytic converter. ...
  3. Paint your catalytic converter. ...
  4. Set an alarm or camera to catch thieves. ...
  5. Check your car insurance.


How much can you get for a catalytic converter?

Since precious metals are used to make it, this part is one of the most expensive parts of a car. Most catalytic converters are worth between $300 and $1,500 as scrap metal.


How much platinum is in a catalytic converter?

There are between 3-7 grams of platinum group metals in a standard catalytic converter, but the amount varies based on manufacturer and model. In terms of the extent to which they are used, there are generally around 3 to 7 grams of PGMs in a standard catalytic converter.

How fast can a catalytic converter be stolen?

Stealing a catalytic converter can take as little as 30 seconds, and the parts have continued to remain prime targets for theft thanks to elevated prices on the precious metals they contain.

What is the number 1 most stolen item?

#1. Cash. Cash is always on the top of burglars' wish list. Unlike other most commonly stolen items that need to be resold in pawn shops or on the street, cash can be used directly and quickly without any conspicuous.


What happens if your catalytic converter is stolen?

When the catalytic converter has been removed, your vehicle will make a loud roaring sound that'll get louder as you push the gas pedal. Your car might also make a sputtering sound as you change speed, or you'll notice it's not driving smoothly.

What do thieves steal the most?

Top 10 items stolen in home invasions/burglaries
  • Electronics. ...
  • Prescription drugs. ...
  • Cars and parts. ...
  • Clothes. ...
  • Furniture. ...
  • Bicycles. ...
  • Personal documents. ...
  • Firearms. Firearms are one of the most stolen items in home invasions.


What is the easiest car to steal a catalytic converter from?

The common consensus seems to be that the Prius, Tacoma, Lexus SUVs, and the Accord are some of the most targeted cars for catalytic converter theft. So if you own one of these, make sure your car is locked up safe and sound.


What states have the most catalytic converters stolen?

State Farm data shows California #1 for catalytic converter theft.

What are the most stolen catalytic converters?

  • 1987–2019 Toyota Camry.
  • 1997–2020 Honda CR-V.
  • 2005–2021 Chevrolet Equinox.
  • 1999–2021 Chevrolet Silverado.
  • 1990–2022 Ford Econoline/E-Series.
  • 2007–2017 Jeep Patriot.
  • 1989–2020 Honda Accord.
  • 1985–2021 Ford F-series.


What does a car sound like without a catalytic converter?

You'll notice a loud rumbling or roaring sound when you turn on the engine if your catalytic converter is missing. This sound gets louder when you hit the gas. The exhaust is not working correctly, so the vehicle also drives rougher than usual, often with a sense of sputtering as you change speed.


How much does it cost to replace catalytic converter?

Catalytic converters have a broad range from about $900 on the low end to $3,500 or even a bit more on the high-end. The difference in price is primarily around parts, because labor is a relatively small part of the cost.

What does it look like after a catalytic converter is stolen?

Signs of catalytic converter theft include a roaring engine, smokier and smellier exhaust, poor engine performance, and an engine warning light. If your catalytic converter has been stolen, drive only if necessary and call the police, your insurance company, and a repair shop.

What is the hardest car to steal a catalytic converter from?

What cars are least likely to have catalytic converter stolen? American brands such as Ford, Chevy, Jeep, Dodge, and Chrysler tend to have less valuable catalytic converters and are therefore less likely to get stolen. Some Nissan, Hyundai, Mazda, and Subaru models also fall into this category.


What cars dont need catalytic converters?

The only vehicles on the road today that don't use converters at all are all-electric vehicles, which recharge their batteries by plugging in and consuming no gasoline or diesel. Non-plug-in hybrids and plug-ins alike use catalytic converters, as do all hybrid vehicles that run on gas or diesel.

What vehicles have the most valuable catalytic converters?

Most Expensive Catalytic Converters
  1. Ferrari F430 ($3,770) As you might expect, the Ferrari F430 is hardly a cheap vehicle, so its components are wildly expensive, including its catalytic converter. ...
  2. Lamborghini Aventador ($3,120) ...
  3. Ram 2500 ($3,460) ...
  4. Ford F-250 ($2,800) ...
  5. Ford Mustang ($1,500)