Why Are Thieves Stealing Catalytic Converters?
In recent years, a surge in catalytic converter thefts has left car owners across the U.S. frustrated and facing costly repairs. But what’s behind this targeted crime? Why are thieves risking arrest to crawl under your car and saw off a part many people didn’t even know existed?
Let’s break it down.
What Is a Catalytic Converter?
A catalytic converter is a component in your vehicle’s exhaust system. Its job? To reduce harmful emissions by converting toxic gases like carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides into less harmful substances before they exit your tailpipe.
But what makes it so valuable to thieves isn’t its function—it’s what’s inside.
Precious Metals Make It a Hot Target
The real reason thieves go after catalytic converters comes down to precious metals. Inside each one are small amounts of:
Platinum
Palladium
Rhodium
As of early 2025:
Rhodium is worth over $12,000 per ounce
Palladium hovers around $1,000+ per ounce
Platinum trades near $950 per ounce
Even though the amounts in a single converter are small, they add up—especially if a thief steals several in a single night. Scrap yards and illegal buyers often pay $50 to $300 per converter, depending on the make and model.
Why Certain Cars Are Targeted More Than Others
Not all catalytic converters are equal. Thieves often target:
Trucks and SUVs (higher off the ground = easier access)
Hybrid vehicles like the Toyota Prius (less engine wear = more precious metals preserved)
Older model Hondas, Toyotas, and Fords, which have more accessible converters
The theft can take less than 2 minutes with a battery-powered saw—and leave the vehicle undrivable and in need of a $1,000 to $3,000 repair.
The Rise of Catalytic Converter Theft: A Perfect Storm
Several factors have fueled this trend:
Skyrocketing metal prices, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic and global supply chain disruptions.
Lax regulations at some scrap yards, making it easy to sell stolen parts.
Minimal risk for thieves—until recently, many areas considered it a minor property crime.
High demand in international markets, especially in countries with stricter emissions regulations but limited local metal supply.
What’s Being Done to Stop It?
Lawmakers and communities are fighting back:
Etching VINs into catalytic converters to track stolen parts
Catalytic converter shields or cages that deter theft
State laws requiring better documentation from scrap yards (like California’s AB 1346 and Colorado’s HB22-1217)
Increased penalties for possession of stolen catalytic converters
Still, theft remains widespread. According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB), catalytic converter thefts have increased over 1,200% since 2019.
How You Can Protect Your Vehicle
Here are some ways to reduce your risk:
Park in a garage or well-lit, high-traffic area
Install a catalytic converter lock or shield
Use a motion-sensitive car alarm
Etch your VIN or license plate number onto the converter
Check with your insurance about comprehensive coverage for theft
Final Thoughts
Catalytic converter theft is a classic example of low-risk, high-reward crime—driven by metal prices, lax oversight, and easy access. While law enforcement is stepping up, the best protection starts with awareness and prevention.
If your car sounds like a roaring motorcycle when you start it, check underneath—it might already be gone.