What you need to know about catalytic converter theft

In 2023, insurance companies in the United States saw declines in catalytic converter thefts. A few key factors have helped slow the trend:

• Stricter laws: States are passing more Know Your Customer (KYC) and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) measures.

• Stronger enforcement: Police are focusing on prevention and disrupting illegal resale operations.

• New federal proposals: Lawmakers are pushing for catalytic converters to be stamped or marked, making stolen parts easier to trace.

Still, the greatest contributing factor is falling precious metal prices. Catalytic converters contain anywhere from 2–15 total grams of palladium, platinum, and rhodium—the precious metals that remove the toxins from engine emissions. Even though they’re no longer getting peak prices, they can still be worth a lot.

Rhodium prices hit nearly $30,000 per ounce at their peak in 2021, but are now worth about $4,500 per ounce. Palladium peaked at around $3,000 per ounce and now sells for about $950 per ounce.*

Criminals often sell stolen catalytic converters to scrap yards, metal dealers, or recycling centers where they can get anywhere from $25 to $300 for a standard model and up to $1,400 for hybrid models* because they contain more metal.

Dairyland^®, a brand of the Sentry Insurance Group, began tracking catalytic converter theft claims in 2022. That year, we saw 499 related claims filed across all types of coverage. Since then the numbers have dropped significantly—down to 243 claims in 2023 and just 105 in 2024.*

When you look specifically at comprehensive coverage claims, the drop is even more dramatic*:

• 2022: 366 catalytic converter-related claims

• 2023: 129 claims

• 2024: 37 claims

Many vehicle owners are still dealing with the fallout. Replacement parts are hard to come by, which means longer periods without a vehicle. When you can find the parts, the repairs can cost up to $3,000 in some areas. Many car owners don’t invest in comprehensive coverage, especially for older vehicles, so they’re paying a lot of money out of pocket.

If you opt to drive your vehicle without a catalytic converter, you may face other costs:

• Loud exhaust noise, rough acceleration, and reduced power

• Possible legal consequences, including fines or impoundment

• Increased carbon monoxide levels which can pose health risks

• Greater environmental impact from unfiltered emissions

While these thefts are often crimes of opportunity, certain makes, models, and types of vehicles get targeted more often than others—mostly based on how easy they are to access and how much value their converters hold.

• Older vehicles have less sophisticated catalytic converter technology that often uses more palladium, platinum, and rhodium than newer vehicles.

• Pickups, SUVs, and hybrid vehicles have catalytic converters with higher concentrations of precious metals.

• Vehicles that are higher off the ground—like trucks and SUVs—are easier to slide under and remove the catalytic converter.

• Vehicles kept in poorly protected public parking lots, dealerships, or driveways are more at risk since thieves can work with less chance of getting caught.

According to the latest data from Carfax*, the personal vehicles most often targeted nationwide include:

1. Ford F-150

2. Ford Explorer

3. Honda Accord

4. Toyota Prius

5. Honda CR-V

6. Chevrolet Equinox

7. Toyota Tacoma

8. Kia Soul

9. Chevrolet Traverse

10. Chevrolet Cruze

This list varies depending on where you live. In the Western U.S. for example, the Prius tops the list and two Subaru models—the Forester and the Outback—also make the top ten.

Beyond personal vehicles, be alert for catalytic converter theft if you own a motorhome, box truck, or semi.

Thieves can remove a catalytic converter in a few minutes. You may not even notice anything was taken, until you start your car. Which is why it’s important to know the warning signs:

• It’s harder to start your car or may hesitate before turning over

• It’s drivable—but is loud and probably sputters, especially when you accelerate

• You may notice a sulfur-like smell coming from the exhaust

• Your "check engine" light turns on and stays on

If your catalytic converter has been stolen, it’s important to document it for insurance. If you carry comprehensive coverage, you may be covered. Here’s what to do:

1. Report the incident to the police

2. Take photos of any damage caused by the theft

3. Notify your insurance company

The main strategy for preventing catalytic converter theft is to create a deterrent. Even small precautions can make stealing your catalytic converter more difficult than it’s worth, causing thieves to find easier targets. Here are some anti-theft measures you can take:

1. Park smart

• Park in well-lit areas and install motion lights near your driveway.

• If possible, park in a locked garage or fenced area.

• When out in public, park near security cameras or building entrances.

2. Install a catalytic converter lock or shield

• Catalytic converter shields (like CatShield^™ or CatClamp^®) cover or encase the converter with steel plates or cables, making it harder to cut off.

• Some mechanics can create custom-welded cages or brackets.

3. Etch your VIN or license plate number onto the converter

• Marking the converter helps law enforcement trace stolen parts.

• Some states and shops offer free or low-cost etching programs.

Wondering whether replacing a stolen catalytic converter is covered under your auto insurance policy? In many cases, the policies that cover stolen car parts require comprehensive coverage—which may also cover damages caused by the theft or acts of vandalism.

If your policy only includes collision or liability coverage, a catalytic converter replacement will likely not be covered.

Every policy is different, so it’s a smart move to review your current coverage and ask your provider questions. Contact the Dairyland^® team to discuss your options and get a free quote today!