Catalytic Converter Thefts Drop, But Don't Let Your Guard Down Yet
But catalytic converters, which change engine pollutants into less harmful emissions before they leave your exhaust pipe, are still catnip, especially on the street level - guys that go from house to house with their tools and steal them, just to make a few dollars.
It takes a skilled crook a ridiculously short time - less than 5 minutes - to duck under your ride, saw through parts and make off with your converter. Thieves can also damage a car's fuel line or wiring, necessitating more costly repairs.
Since the only way you'll know your catalytic converter's been stolen is by starting up and hearing the deafening sound of a muffler-less car – and some people don't start their cars for days or longer – catching the thieves isn't easy.
The good news is that the thefts have gone way, way down in recent years for a variety of reasons. State Farm reports a 74% drop in claims during the first half of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023, with over 3,800 claims filed, down from more than 14,800 the previous year.
Here's why, in part:
Legislative Measures: States like Washington, California, and Minnesota have enacted laws requiring catalytic converters to be marked with vehicle identification numbers (VINs) and have imposed stricter regulations on scrap metal dealers.
Law Enforcement Crackdowns: Operations targeting theft rings have led to significant reductions in thefts. For instance, Denver experienced a 95% decrease in catalytic converter thefts in 2024 compared to previous year.
Market Factors: The prices of precious metals used in catalytic converters, such as rhodium, have dropped substantially, reducing the incentive for theft. Rhodium prices fell from nearly $30,000 per ounce in 2021 to about $4,800 in 2024.
Some states are passing laws, too, mandating that recyclers document each converter brought in to be sold for scrap and create a paper trail to deter the theft and resale of the units. California, for example, requires all businesses to document converter sales, their date and locations as well as taking a photo or even a short video of the seller. The records must be retained for two years. If you're selling a used converter, the recycler has to pay you by check either mailed to your residence or place of business, or picked up after a three-day delay.
Despite the curtailing of catalytic converter thefts, they still do happen. Some of the below points may seem obvious but repetition and good habits can make the difference between having a good day or a day where your vehicle sounds like Godzilla because someone helped themselves to your converter.
*Park your vehicle in a closed, locked garage.
*Install a conspicuous video surveillance camera outside your home.
*Watch local news or social network neighborhood forums to monitor epidemics of local converter thefts, and take extra precautions.
*Have the car's VIN number etched on the converter, or do it yourself if you have the tools.
Ride safe! JM
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