Why are people stealing catalytic converters? How can I prevent theft? What to know.

Thefts of catalytic converters from cars and trucks continue to be a problem in Texas and across the nation.

The catalytic converter, which in some cases is as big as a loaf of bread, has been targeted by thieves for several years now. Between December 2019 and December 2020, the number of catalytic converter thefts nearly quadrupled nationally, according to the National Insurance Crime Bureau in 2021.

In Fort Worth, there were 1,398 catalytic converter thefts in the first nine months of 2021, according to a report from the Fort Worth Police Department. It was such an issue, that Fort Worth police put out a list of vehicles that could be targeted for theft.

What exactly is a catalytic converter and why are thieves stealing the part?

What is a catalytic converter?

A catalytic converter is part of a vehicle’s exhaust system that converts toxic engine pollutants into something less harmful for the environment.

When vehicles are running, they generate fumes and gases called emissions. The catalytic converter’s job is to change the harmful compounds into safe gases like steam, according to the Universal Technical Institute.

By using a chamber called a catalyst, the converter splits up unsafe molecules before the gas can be released into the air.

Every vehicle on the road has a catalytic converter. Ever since the mid-1970s, they have been required by law to have one. Each converter varies in size depending on the vehicle, and can be found attached to the exhaust. It looks like a large metal box with two pipes coming out of the top and bottom of the device.

Why are people stealing them?

Thieves target catalytic converters because of the value of the metals found inside the devices.

Catalytic converters are typically made up of three precious metals: platinum, palladium and rhodium. The value of all three metals have risen sharply in price in the last decade.

Currently, an ounce of platinum is worth almost $1,000, an ounce of palladium is around $2,000 and rhodium is sitting at just over $15,000 an ounce, according to Money Metals. Only five years ago, platinum was worth around $900, palladium around $750 and rhodium was just under $1,000 an ounce.

A reseller will pay between from $50 to $250 for a catalytic converter. Typically, each converter contains 3 to 7 grams of platinum, 2 to 7 grams of palladium and 1 to 2 grams of rhodium, according to the Universal Technical Institute. There are 28.3495 grams to an ounce.

Can I drive my vehicle without a catalytic converter?

The short answer is yes. But do you really want to risk it?

Catalytic converters were only commonplace in vehicles produced by the mid-1970s, so vehicles built before that time can run without the device, according to Car Parts.

The converter’s job is to help with harmful pollutants. Most states, including Texas, require vehicles to go through emissions testing as part of the state’s inspection process. With no converter to filter out the harmful pollutants, this could mean that the vehicle will fail the emissions testing, resulting in no registration renewal.

How do I know if someone steals mine?

You might not know right away if your catalytic converter has been stolen, according to Allstate Insurance Co.

But, as soon as you start the vehicle and hear the engine roar, it should be more obvious. Here are some things to lookout for:

• Loud engine roar when starting the vehicle or when accelerating.

• An increase in exhaust fumes or unusual smells.

• Any missing parts under the vehicle near the exhaust region.

• There could be an uneven or sputtering acceleration, due to the lack of exhaust regulation.

• The check engine light turns on or the vehicle fails inspection.
  
  

Does my insurance cover the theft?

If you have a comprehensive insurance coverage plan, then you more than likely are covered for catalytic converter theft.

Checking with your insurance provider is the best way to make sure catalytic converter theft is covered, but most comprehensive plans include coverage for the replacement of the part and repair costs for any damaged related to its removal.

What can you do to prevent it?

It might seem impossible to guard your vehicle 24/7 from thieves, but there are a few ways to prevent theft, according to the Universal Technical Institute:

• Parking in well-lighted areas close to building entrances can help, if a garage is unavailable.

• Welding the catalytic converter to the vehicle frame can make it harder to remove.

• An aftermarket part similar to a metal cage can be installed to cover the converter.

• There are car alarms out there with a vibration alert sensor.

• Engraving your vehicle identification number on the converter can make it harder to sell the part or help alert that the part is stolen.