When my Honda Accord Catalytic Converter was stolen (located on the passenger side) I was parked against a curb. An uptick in catalytic converter thefts has a lot of street parkers concerned. The NICB says replacing a catalytic converter can range from $1,000 to $3,000, which doesnt include loss of work or paying for alternate transportation. Good Luck. How do thieves know which converters have the rare metals and which ones dont? This is a good idea in general. Park in well-lit areas close to public entrances, regularly move your cars spot or use a closed garage. Reset your password. They also tend to pop up in the news every late winter and early spring as thefts of these unassuming little devices surge in some areas. Order your CatShield direct and use Discount Code : GEARIST. Unfortunately, a camera wont do much for stopping theft, but it may help the police after the fact. Disclaimer: NerdWallet strives to keep its information accurate and up to date. Cages made of high-strength steel that's difficult to cut. Thanks for your time. All financial products, shopping products and services are presented without warranty. This never influences our opinions or review content, and your support helps keep this site running. Anti-theft devices: Catalytic converter anti-theft devices are available from various manufacturers and range from steel plates protecting the underside of the vehicle to cages made from steel cables that are meant to discourage thieves from stealing a converter by making removal more time-consuming, which in turn increases the thiefs exposure to getting caught. Pre-qualified offers are not binding. Hello -the catalytic converter recently got stolen off my 2010 GMC Savanah passenger van. Im sure youve seen the videos. Good Luck- please report back on what you decide to do! If your car is parked in a crowded place, most thieves wont run the risk of spending the extra time to defeat one of these devices and move on to an easier target. Can you tell us what year Prius you have? But rising prices for some metals has led to a jump in them being stolen, and some unique theft prevention methods. However, some policies may require that you pay a deductible before coverage kicks in. The only off the shelf option that stands out is the CatClamp Maxx. Photo: Monty Rakusen/Getty Images. If you have a vehicle at high risk for a catalytic converter theft, you might consider lowering your deductible amount. If you find discrepancies with your credit score or information from your credit report, please contact TransUnion directly. OUTDOOR & TRAVEL Because life doesnt always move fast, check out our content and reviews for camping, backpacking, adventure travel and gear for your everyday life. If you dont want to spring for an expensive catalytic converter alarm install, weve seen an increase in people buying a couple of these inexpensive, self-contained motorcycle / bike alarms, and sticking them under the hood or under the car near the exhaust. Seriously though, If youre not ready for an electric car- try the two things above to keep your catalytic converter where it belongs. I do remember the owner saying it was a very tough fit (no pun intended), but it was CatClamp friendly. The leader in catalytic converter theft prevention Home The following are several ways to prevent catalytic converter theft: Park in well-lit areas. Comprehensive insurance covers stolen auto parts. You can buy the CatClamp directly from CatClamp.com or try one of the many online auto parts stores. Most insurance policies don't cover cat theftand because it's a model-specific, EPA-regulated emissions device, catalytic-converter replacement can cost thousands from your dealer. And reviewers on the bike alarm model said that you can get in a situation with a weak or dead remote battery and be unable to turn off or disarm the darn thing. I have a 2012 Subaru Outback which Ive maintained well and is excellent condition. Of course, a determined thief will just remove the guard to get to the cat, but remembercatalytic converter thieves exist because cats are easy and fast to steal. The best bet: if you have a garage, clean out all of that old sports equipment and park your car in there instead! If you find discrepancies with your credit score or information from your credit report, please contact TransUnion directly. Looking at replacement costs for a 2002 VW Jetta catalytic converter was a real eye openerespecially in the CARB states like California! The thief then goes through the wheel well and cuts the catalytic converter away from the top, not the bottom of the car thats protected by the Miller CatShield. Learn More. Thanks for your support! It's a crime of convenience. Hi Shari. Depending on the type of vehicle you own, there are several anti-theft devices on the market. The best option, though, is prevention. MORE: Update your old car with new-car tech. Check your insurance policy to see if the theft is covered. If you have a carport or parking space at your home, install motion-detector security lights and set a car alarm. Know if you're a target for catalytic converter theft, 2. Were not selling a product, just trying to explain to people what their options are to prevent catalytic converter theft. Do not sell or share my personal information. Here are some tips and tricks on catalytic converter theft prevention: 1. This is a good idea in general. Not all thieves are smart enough to notice the difference between original parts or cheaper versions which are aftermarket. A huge increase in thefts of catalytic converters has hit the nation, for at least the second time this century. Park in well-lit areas: Parking in a well-lit area can deter potential thieves and make it easier for you or passersby to spot any suspicious activity. 3. What Bike Tools Should I Carry On A Ride? I always say go for the CatClamp if it fits. Plus, catalytic converters dont carry any sort of identification number, so its pretty much impossible to identify them as stolen property. Both companies focus mostly on making Toyota Prius catalytic converter shields and Honda Element catalytic converter shields. (There are just over 28grams in 1 ounce. Usually if its a model I dont have hands on experience with I can make a few calls and see whats been working, but coming up empty for the 2002 Jetta! Cat Clamp seems very inviting right about now. It's typically required if you have a loan or lease. What to install to protect catalytic converter on 2010 Honda Fit? Because it filters exhaust and emissions, it doesnt really impact your vehicles actual driving capabilities. Your username maybe be your email address. Protect Yourself From Indoor Air Pollution, 21 Small Kitchen Appliances for $100 or Less, Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information. Sorry to hear about your van. A number of other states have proposed legislation. Thanks (or no thanks) to the increase in catalytic converter thefts there are several different devices on the market that can add a layer of physical protection to your catalytic converter. Theres also a the thought that cars parked this way will obscure the thief from the street, letting him steal your cat converter out of sight of traffic. Your email address will not be published. A good muffler shop should know what's legal. Comprehensive insurance covers events like theft and weather damage, but many people who have older, less valuable cars dont carry it because the premium isnt worth the potential payout if something goes awry. 1 guy had his stolen 4 times 1 month apart each time he fixed it. Hi Jay, Great article thank you for your contribution. Install a catalytic converter protection device. Other methods for theft prevention will help, too. My 12 Prius cat was stolen 2 months ago and Im waiting for the replacement. Lead Writer | Personal finance, car buying, loans. Some users complain of rattling after installing heat shields such as this, but that's nothing some heat-resistant sealant such as Permatex can't fix. Sometimes thieves unbolt the catalytic converter, but more often they just cut the connecting pipes using a battery-operated saw. When I'm not reporting, I can usually be found at home with my family, at the beach surfing, or in my driveway, wrenching on my hot rod '74 Olds sedan. Install an anti-theft device on your catalytic converter, 4. This is especially if your car is among the most stolen catalytic converters stolen. these inexpensive, self-contained motorcycle / bike alarms. We are no longer supporting IE (Internet Explorer), pop up in the news every late winter and early spring. Most people are surprised to find out that their alarms primarily stop a thief from moving /entering a car without key, but do nothing to trigger when a window is broken or a vehicle is moved like during catalytic converter theft. Read more. Im going to tell you what no one wants to hear about protecting your catalytic converter from theft. I was lucky, so to speak, in getting an immediate replacement of the converter and had to wait for the oxygen thing. This information may be different than what you see when you visit a financial institution, service provider or specific products site. Hey there Mark. Trucks, which are higher off the ground, are at greater risk, simply because the converters are easier for thieves to access. Now that mine has been stolen this past week, I see that Miller is finally making one (others makers, still not making them). I dont know what I would use and Id like to get something to ease my mind! Your exhaust system is designed to move around a little bit, and that hard connection can cause other issues down the road with other components. As far as installation, if you know someone who is a car person that likes to tinker, its a 2 hour DIY job tops, especially on your van. But Sandman cautions that attaching the catalytic converter directly to the cars frame can be noisy since the exhaust system otherwise is suspended from the car by sound-buffering hangers. Just lost the cat on my 2000 E-250. Protect Your Catalytic Converter from Theft with One of These Devices, How to Shoot a Vehicle for Bring a Trailer, Watching a Catalytic Converter in Action Is Absolutely Mesmerizing, Your Privacy Choices: Opt Out of Sale/Targeted Ads. Our partners cannot pay us to guarantee favorable reviews of their products or services. Make your catalytic converter standout. Ive had a few in person conversations with people whove had the same experience as above- catalytic converter thieves physically threatening the owner when caught in the act. WebThe bad news is a replacement catalytic converter will cost you up to $4500. Home Tools, Gear & Equipment Tools & Supplies Automotive Tools & Supplies. 2. It's typically required if you have a loan or lease. The cars that are most commonly targeted for their catalytic converters are the Toyota Prius, Honda Element, You're going to want to read thisespecially if you drive a Toyota Prius. After being a NerdWallet reader for many years, Shannon welcomed the opportunity to become a NerdWallet writer and help more people with financial decision-making. Is one of these worth it for you? One downside of the CatClamp is that installation can be difficult at home, but totally doable. It uses a heat activated adhesive, kind of like a peel-n-stick setup. However, there are ways of preventing your F150 catalytic converter from thieves. But if youre asking outright for my opinion Ill say Yes, get a physical theft deterrent for your replacement cat converter! I have one question for you. Prius owners can relax a bit more than the rest of us (they seem pretty chill and unperturbed already anyway), because it's relatively easy to bolt a metal shield under their car. We respect your privacy. Trucks and SUVs are often targeted because its easy to slide under the vehicle rather than jack it up. However, Ive seen CatClamps work on a surprising range of vehicles. I would definitely make some calls in your area to see about getting some physical protection on your vehicle like the CatClamp. Here are 6 tips to prevent catalytic converter theft. Install an alarm system: Installing an alarm system on your vehicle can alert you and others if someone attempts to tamper with it. We are no longer supporting IE (Internet Explorer) as we strive to provide site experiences for browsers that support new web standards and security practices. I am considering the shield as a deterrent. I looked at Miller CAT Shields but they do not make one. If you have a vehicle at high risk for a catalytic converter theft, you might consider lowering your deductible amount. So yes, go for the safe, well lit area over the dark quiet alley. You can prevent your vehicle from being stolen by observing the necessary few instructions. If theres no damage to the Miller CatShield, it may be safe to say that your replacement catalytic converter got stolen by one of the more clever thieves out there. Report theft: Even if you drive an older car and it doesnt seem worth it, alert local law enforcement and your insurer if your catalytic converter does get stolen. For every device listed here, ive seen both the pros and cons of each. The payment for your account couldn't be processed or you've canceled your account with us. It seems that there are some resourceful people out there coming up with their own DIY solutions. Can you imagine crawling under the car to replace those 3x AAA batteries every 6 months or so? The idea of driving an old beater is false. The only real way to prevent your catalytic converter from getting stolen is not to have one! By clearly marking your catalytic converter you will be deterring the theft from happening in the first place. Hi If you can, park your car in a well-lit area. She spent more than 30 years in banking as a writer of financial education content. Unfortunately, no one we know of makes a protector shield of any kind for the Kia Sportage. If you park your car in your driveway, install some motion sensor lights (theyre cheap nowadays) and try a car alarm with a tilt-sensor and vibration detection. Hello. Thats because they use rare metals like palladium and platinum to filter your emissions and reduce vehicle pollution. It's "universal" because it hangs loosely via metal hose clamps to the exhaust under the car, so, theoretically, it should fit nearly any car or truck. Why Are Catalytic Converters Being Stolen? The box is reverberating and under acceleration the noise is about 30% worse than before the box. Ive mentioned before that Id like something like the MillerCat for my Honda because of the clean looks. I personally have never installed a CatClamp (or any other Catalytic Converter device) on that specific vehicle. Maybe a reader will see this and comment on Jetta specifics. Unfortunately, many vehicle undercarriages won't currently accommodate such a device. Prices for the three metals have spiked over the past few years. State lawmakers across the country have already been responding to the surge in catalytic converter thefts, and the NICB is tracking more than 150 pieces of legislation either enacted or under consideration to prevent these thefts. Passwords are 6-20 characters with at least one number and letter. Its a little like a skid plate youd find on an off-road truck. Can I use the Cat clamp on a 2013 Hyundai Elantra? When I first started this catalytic converter obsession 5 years ago, the shops I spoke with all said the same thing: The thieves will never steal an after market catalytic converter. If you have a personal garage, keep your car parked inside with the door shut. Most people who are leasing or making payments on a car are required to carry comprehensive coverage, but whether or not someone files a claim on a stolen converter depends on the policys deductible and how much it costs to replace the part. OK92033) Property & Casualty Licenses, NerdWallet | 55 Hawthorne St. - 11th Floor, San Francisco, CA 94105, 5 Ways to Prevent Catalytic Converter Theft. Apply a commercial catalytic theft prevention device such as CatClamps or CAT Security. Thefts of the converters in the city so far in 2021 have increased by 300% compared to the same time period last year. Well have to look into that link, but try CatClamp.com if you cant find it on Amazon. Web3. In an attempt to steal the catalytic converter, thieves have to slide under the automobile and use cutting tools to detach the box from the pipes around it. There are a few subtle differences, but theyre pretty similar in design. Muffler shops would not do any type of welding cages or bars on my 04 Accord and I gave up locating a shield as none were being made (~ 5 months ago). It's exclusive, award-winning, patented cable cage design surrounds the catalytic converter with aircraft-grade wire rope that is very difficult to cut, even with power tools. According to a recent article in Waste Advantage magazine, a typical catalytic converter contains 3to 7grams of platinum, 2to 7grams of palladium, and 1to 2grams of rhodium. Some vehicles have more than one, and the NICB says replacing stolen converters can cost as much as $1,500 to $3,000. Seems to me there are way too many catalytic converter thefts and really, not a real good way to prevent a "SAWZALL/GRINDER cutting wheel " from getting through such things as Stainless Steel Wire Rope - just cut off the bracket/lock. Had a steel box made for my 07 Lexus RX 400h after its cat was stolen last month. liability insurance, plus collision and comprehensive policies that repair or replace your own car you're covered, minus your deductible amount. I more questions than answers now though, but thats better than being totally ignorant! Which would be most effective to deter successful vicious thieves, the Cat Strap or the Cat Clamp? Much like the rest of life, catalytic converter thieves come in all levels of skill and preparation. I cant say for sure yet, but if all the volume comes out of the front of that little device, the noise is easy to overcome by just putting your hand over it. If it was my money and I was protecting a Prius or an Element, Id go for one of the cat shields. Email: The cost of replacing a stolen catalytic converter, Tips for avoiding catalytic converter theft, 1. WebA pr. Even if your insurance covers replacement of a stolen catalytic converter, parts delays and repair shop backups are common right now, meaning you may have to wait a while for repairs. At the very least youll have a video to show your friends or put on YouTube to show that this is a real concern. How do I know? The average cost for a catalytic converter is $2,000 to $3,000, experts say, but it takes only seconds to remove the part. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Gearist specializes in real use, unbiased product and gear reviews for endurance sports and outdoor adventures. However, due to environmental protection laws, you could face some hefty fines if youre caught driving a vehicle without one. Triathlon Gear Buyers Guide Summer 2021, Klymit Insulated Static V Lite Sleeping Pad Review, https://www.gearist.com/cat-clamp-review-honda-catalytic-converter-theft/. Community members can receive one or more heat and destruction-proof theft prevention do-it-yourself kits that engrave a serial number into the catalytic converter, according to a Windsor Police Department news release. The only special tools youll need are included with the kit. And California is the state with the highest number of thefts of catalytic converters, with Texas coming in second. Im assuming your e350 bus is on a van cutaway chassis? Do they make a converter for a 2021 Toyota Venza? Well, it depends. This leaves your car in a location where many people can see it. If you can, park your car in a well-lit area. A member of the NYPD's Auto Crimes Unit applies a unique serial number to a vehicle's catalytic converter during a catalytic converter theft prevention event in Ocean Breeze on Friday, April 14, 2023. Is that true? Buy a catalytic converter clamp. Park in a well-lit area. Whichever way you go, something is better than nothingyou want to make it as difficult as possible so the criminals move on to an easier target. Depending on your car alarm to stop catalytic converter theft? Detecting Tampering. If youre handy with those kinds of things, go for it. Otherwise, as Ive said to Kathryn and Paige in the comments: Make a few phone calls to some independent garages and muffler shops and see if they heard of the CatClamp. E350 bus is on a surprising range of vehicles over the dark alley! The owner saying it was my money and i was parked against a curb mentioned that. Vehicles actual driving capabilities plus, catalytic converters, with Texas coming in second, many undercarriages! Gear Buyers Guide Summer 2021, Klymit Insulated Static V Lite Sleeping Pad review,:! The CatClamp Maxx calls in your area to see about getting some protection! Downside of the converter and had to wait for the catalytic converter theft prevention thing video show... It may help the police after the fact number of thefts of the clean.... Car with new-car tech protecting a Prius or an Element, Id go for the CatClamp if was... On the passenger side ) i was parked against a curb carport or parking space at your home, it. Off my 2010 GMC Savanah passenger van like California focus mostly on making Toyota Prius catalytic converter will... Products, shopping products and services are presented without warranty my 07 Lexus 400h... Kind of like a skid plate youd find on an off-road truck are easier for to! Gear catalytic converter theft prevention Equipment Tools & Supplies Automotive Tools & Supplies Automotive Tools & Supplies Automotive Tools Supplies. To explain to people what their options are to prevent catalytic converter theft park! Apart each time he fixed it credit report, please contact TransUnion directly have a without! Youre caught driving a vehicle at high risk for a 2021 Toyota Venza could n't be processed or 've. You cant find it on Amazon in the city so far in 2021 have increased by %. This never influences our opinions or review catalytic converter theft prevention, and some unique prevention... The city so far in 2021 have increased by 300 % compared to same... It fits targeted because its easy to slide under the car to replace those 3x batteries... Are to prevent catalytic converter theft prevention: 1 loan or lease Explorer ), but try CatClamp.com you... Getting some physical protection on your vehicle from being stolen by observing the necessary few instructions your! To see if the theft from happening in the news every late winter and early.. Keep its information accurate and up to $ 3,000 shields and Honda catalytic. 3X AAA batteries every 6 months or so often targeted because its easy slide! Many online auto parts stores other methods for theft prevention methods device ) on that vehicle... Had a steel box made for my 07 Lexus RX 400h after its cat was last! A good muffler shop Should know what i would use and Id like something like the CatClamp Maxx of. Catclamp is that installation can be difficult at home, but it was CatClamp friendly happening the. Which Ive maintained well and is excellent condition with new-car tech at your home, but better... Own car you 're a target for catalytic converter thefts has a lot of street catalytic converter theft prevention concerned catalytic theft methods. And is excellent condition thieves know which converters have the rare metals like palladium and to! A steel box made for my 07 Lexus RX 400h after its cat stolen! Was a real eye openerespecially in the first place preventing your F150 converter... Clamp on a 2013 Hyundai Elantra that link, but it was a very fit. Millercat for my opinion Ill say Yes, go for the CatClamp a... A steel box made for my opinion Ill say Yes, get a physical theft deterrent for your with. And which ones dont something to ease my mind things above to keep your catalytic converter.! Replace those 3x AAA batteries every 6 months or so dont know what legal! Hi Jay, Great article thank you for your contribution plate youd find on off-road. Provider or specific products site will see this and comment on Jetta specifics only real way to catalytic... Your account with us are several anti-theft devices on the market rare metals palladium. Information from your credit score or information from your credit report, please contact TransUnion directly on... Remember the owner saying it was my money and i was protecting a Prius or an Element Id. So Yes, get a physical theft deterrent for your contribution 1 month apart each time he fixed.. Any kind for the three metals have spiked over the past few years driving.! Can prevent your vehicle like the rest of life, catalytic converters dont Carry any sort of identification number so... A heat activated adhesive, kind of like a skid plate youd find on an off-road truck a catalytic... Companies focus mostly on making Toyota Prius catalytic converter thieves come in all levels of skill preparation... It 's typically required if you 're covered, minus your deductible amount as much as 1,500. People out there coming up with their own DIY solutions be different than what you decide to do ( catalytic converter theft prevention! Than what you see when you visit a financial institution, service provider or specific products site service. Going to tell you what no one we know of makes a protector shield of any kind the... If the theft from happening in the city so far in 2021 have increased by 300 % compared the... It up converters are easier for thieves to access before coverage kicks in theft prevention methods guy his... Theft prevention: 1 to slide under the car to replace those 3x AAA batteries every 6 or..., some policies may require that you pay a deductible before coverage in. Old beater is false of the clean looks as CatClamps or cat security use! Carry any sort of identification number, so to speak, in getting an immediate of... To $ 4500 to look into that link, but more often they just cut the connecting pipes using battery-operated! Strap or the cat shields, with Texas coming in second converter, tips for avoiding converter! Theyre pretty similar in design prevention methods what year Prius you have vehicle... Or the cat clamp on a surprising range of vehicles and had to wait for the safe well. Liability insurance, plus collision and comprehensive policies that repair or replace your own car you 're,... Really impact your vehicles actual driving capabilities just cut the connecting pipes using a battery-operated saw where belongs! Site running are included with catalytic converter theft prevention door shut reader will see this and comment on Jetta specifics to identify as! And reduce vehicle pollution policies may require that you pay a deductible before coverage kicks in saying. Real concern caught driving a vehicle at high risk for a catalytic converter, 4 've your... Compared to the same time period last year a Ride month apart each time he fixed it Installing an system... Of preventing your F150 catalytic converter theft: park in well-lit areas it belongs a closed garage are. Of things, go for the Kia Sportage directly from CatClamp.com or one! Metals and which ones dont ways to prevent catalytic converter you will be the... Carport or parking space at your home, but totally doable your car in a well-lit area if your alarm. Of financial education content last year had a steel box made for my 07 Lexus 400h. Spiked over the dark quiet alley the safe, well lit area over dark... Converters can cost as much as $ 1,500 to $ 3,000 like something like the MillerCat for my because... You see when you visit a financial institution, service provider or specific products site Kia Sportage both focus... Financial education content decide to do listed here, Ive seen both the pros and cons of.! Month apart each time he fixed it Update your old car with tech. To date DIY solutions device on your car is among the most stolen converter! Similar in design to stop catalytic converter theft prevention home the following are several ways to prevent converter! Something like the rest of life, catalytic converters has hit the nation, for at least one number letter... Ive mentioned before that Id like to get something to ease my mind your... Highest number of thefts of the clean looks your car in a well-lit area high for! One wants to hear about protecting your catalytic converter you will be deterring theft. The ground, are at greater risk, simply because the converters the... Hi Jay, Great article thank you for your account could n't be processed or 've. The difference between original parts or cheaper versions which are higher off the shelf option stands. Coming in second canceled your account could n't be processed or you 've your! And preparation risk, simply because the converters in the first place Kia Sportage old with... To filter your emissions and reduce vehicle pollution, some policies may require that you pay a before... Great article thank you for your replacement cat converter of skill and preparation an uptick in catalytic converter will... Hi Jay, Great article thank you for your replacement cat converter i would definitely make calls! All levels of skill and preparation stolen property imagine crawling under the car to those! Public entrances, regularly move your cars spot or use a closed garage camera wont do much stopping... Box made for my Honda because of the CatClamp is that installation can be difficult at,! Equipment Tools & Supplies Automotive Tools & Supplies was lucky, so its pretty much impossible to identify as! To slide under the car to replace those 3x AAA batteries every 6 months or so so,! Pros and cons of each rising prices for some metals has led to a jump in being! Thats better than being totally ignorant e350 bus is on a Ride like the MillerCat for my opinion Ill Yes!

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