catalytic converter theft prevention

When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Consider replacing it with a theft-resistant catalytic converter. Hi Julie. Wouldnt expect a MillerCat Shield for the Elantra to happen anytime soon, but you never know! If you have a vehicle at high risk for a catalytic converter theft, you might consider lowering your deductible amount. It's typically required if you have a loan or lease. Stainless steel cables welded from the catalytic converter to the cars frame. A few aftermarket companies have developed metal shields that easily bolt to the undercarriage of 2004-up Priusesand even some late-model Tacoma pickups. It's typically required if you have a loan or lease. Trucks and SUVs are often targeted because its easy to slide under the vehicle rather than jack it up. When my Honda Accord Catalytic Converter was stolen (located on the passenger side) I was parked against a curb. California is considered a hot spot for catalytic converter thefts, and Sandmans shop replaces 15 to 20 stolen catalytic converters each day. He adds that its a crime of opportunity, and car owners can take steps to encourage thieves to move on to easier prey. Much like the rest of life, catalytic converter thieves come in all levels of skill and preparation. We dont recognize that sign in. If you find discrepancies with your credit score or information from your credit report, please contact TransUnion directly. If my travels have taught me anything, it's that stuffconsumer productsis at the center of daily life all over the world. They do recommend adding on some additional generic clamps as additional hard protection. Thats why I say buy the two pack!. 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. This means parking your car close to walls, curbs or fences will make theft much more difficult. Unfortunately, this is one of those things that we dont think about until it happens to us. Vehicles with ultra low-emissions are bigger targets, because they have catalytic converters that contain more rhodium, palladium and platinum that render pollutants harmless while increasing the value for thieves. When evaluating offers, please review the financial institutions Terms and Conditions. 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. If you add the right opportunity, theres not much you can do to protect your cars catalytic converter from being stolen. Park in a well-lit area: Parking your vehicle in a well-lit area can help deter potential thieves from targeting it. Now, you can take this documentation and use it to file a police report. Ann, so sorry this happened twice. Hey there Mark. I dont have experience with the older VW catalytic converters. Each has its own merits. 4. Generally speaking, comprehensive auto insurance policies may cover the cost of replacing a stolen catalytic converter. A number of other states have proposed legislation. Heres hoping they work! Thieves usually have their eyes on the cars hidden from the general publics view. And if they can do it for this truck, more models should be on the horizon. But rising prices for some metals has led to a jump in them being stolen, and some unique theft prevention methods. You can check out Primitive Racing for skidplates, but I dont think any will protect the secondary cat thats out in the open. I'm thinking a "skid plate" covering the catalytic converter, attached to the FRAME may be the best route to go. This makes it traceable, and in theory at least, a reputable scrap metal dealer might decline to buy it. Called local Honda dealer and they were no help. As with any type of theft, its easier to get away with under the cover of night. It will help give you a heads up if someone is poking around around your vehicle. Gearist is supported by readers like you. 2. But back to your SavanahId suggest the Cat Clamp MAXX. I had never heard of this happening before. Good Luck- please report back on what you decide to do! Im assuming your e350 bus is on a van cutaway chassis? In a press release, Attorney General Merrick Garland said, We will continue to work alongside our state and local partners to disrupt criminal conspiracies like this one that target the American people.. Shannon is based in Newburgh, Indiana. The Catstrap has the easiest setup for a DIY protection installation. You can help protect your car against catalytic converter theft by etching the license plate number on it, parking in well-lit areas and installing an anti-theft device. 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. Sometimes thieves unbolt the catalytic converter, but more often they just cut the connecting pipes using a battery-operated saw. Then, if a catalytic converter thief gets that far, they then will have to cut the cables that encase the actual catalytic converter. Looking at replacement costs for a 2002 VW Jetta catalytic converter was a real eye openerespecially in the CARB states like California! (There are just over 28grams in 1 ounce. They now include the following vehicles: I like the Miller Shield a little better because of the fastening system AND they make a Stainless Steel version. Definitely take a look at the CatClamp to see if itll work. This never influences our opinions or review content, and your support helps keep this site running. Can you confirm that? And theres a new rattle when the engine starts under hard acceleration. WebConsider these tips to help protect your car from catalytic converter theft: Know if your car is a likely target: hybrids, SUVs and trucks have valuable or easily removable catalytic converters. Here are a few steps that can get you going again: Aftermarket catalytic converters are cheaper, but make sure they're allowed in your state. WebThe CatClamp was invented to prevent thieves from stealing your catalytic converter. Just set the motion-based alarm with a fob whenever the vehicle is parked, and it shrieks if it gets jostled or moved. What a wonderful world we live in hey? A California bill that would have required car dealers to etch converters with a vehicles unique vehicle identification number (VIN) did not pass. Im sure youll get a couple of Huh?s before you find one, but Im sure somebody local can help you out. Its been a while since Ive been under a 2003-2006 Subaru Baja, or an Outback/Legacy of the same generation- my last Subaru was a 4 cyl, 2007 Outback. Would the Millercat work on my car? Many people have fit aftermarket on after originals were stolen only to become a victim again. 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. The only off the shelf option that stands out is the CatClamp Maxx. Theres NAPAs cat clamp cant tell if it will fit this car or not. Catalytic converters are the part of a vehicles exhaust system that helps lower emissions and reduce the negative impact automobile traffic has on the environment. Catalytic converter theft is on the rise and to a shocking degree. Pre-qualified offers are not binding. Its designed really well. Can I use the Cat clamp on a 2013 Hyundai Elantra? I think the MillerCat discount code is case-sensitive. How to Prevent Catalytic Converter Theft The best preventive measure you can take is asking your mechanic to use welding techniques to attach the converter more permanently to your undercarriage. However, Ive seen CatClamps work on a surprising range of vehicles. Is that true? The final price tag for a catalytic converter replacement depends on the vehicle make and model, as well as the area of the country. This is exactly why its important to do everything you can outlined in the article, especially a physical deterrent, to reduce your chances of catalytic converter theft. The only real way to prevent your catalytic converter from getting stolen is not to have one! Hi Jay, Great article thank you for your contribution. The heavy-duty wire acts like a cage around your converter, effectively tying it to your frame. Just remember that a catalytic converter isnt worth the physical harm- be safe! I dont know what I would use and Id like to get something to ease my mind! And it seems that bystanders either dont notice whats happening or wont get involved. It wont, Drive an old beater you think no one wants? However, this does not influence our evaluations. The downside it doesnt look like a substantial physical deterrent like the other options. I was lucky, so to speak, in getting an immediate replacement of the converter and had to wait for the oxygen thing. Can a Car Run Without a Catalytic Converter? These are actually the cars targeted the most. The payment for your account couldn't be processed or you've canceled your account with us. (The fender liner is the big plastic piece that is inserted in the wheel well). While attending college to earn a journalism degree, Shannon completed an internship that led not to the newsroom, but to a bank marketing department. Since you should really be concerned about the less expensive secondary converter getting stolen, the CatClamp or the CatStrap talked about above in the article may be a good solution. We can, however, make it a lot harder. We may earn commission from links on this page, but we only recommend products we back. Hi Shari. Thanks for any help. Youll also have to pay for installation, unless you plan on tackling the complicated process yourself. Since we first wrote this article, MillerCat has expanded their line up. In New York City, the police department reported that converter thefts had risen from 211 to 802 over that same period, and jumped to 3,705 in 2021. liability insurance, plus collision and comprehensive policies that repair or replace your own car you're covered, minus your deductible amount. Other ways to protect your car from this vehicle crime are as follows: Park in a garage or secured parking area Install a bright motion sensor light to discourage potential thieves. NICB says insurance policies can cover replacement of a stolen catalytic converter, but only if theres a comprehensive policy in place. 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. The amazon link for the catclamp shows not available. Seriously though, If youre not ready for an electric car- try the two things above to keep your catalytic converter where it belongs. Here is a list of our partners and here's how we make money. You can watch their install video here. 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. We recommend our users to update the browser. The best preventive measure you can take is asking your mechanic to use welding techniques to attach the converter more permanently to your undercarriage. This device is a little different than the others. Victoria, I am also looking for some type of an alarm. However, there are ways of preventing your F150 catalytic converter from thieves. 4. It's a crime of convenience. This leaves your car in a location where many people can see it. Also made of durable and corrosion-resistant aluminum, this shield is ideal for older Priuses with the 1.5L engine. SWIM, BIKE, RUN Focused on you, the athlete we bring you informative articles and gear reviews about cycling, running, trail running, triathlons and other endurance sports. Others go all out and make their own rebar catalytic converter cages. The nice thing is there are lots of options to protect your vehicle from theft once you assess your own situational risk! Also get to know your neighbors and join neighborhood networks such as NextDoor to be aware of strangers in the area or reports of theft. This leads into answers to your questions: MillerCAT shields arent just a lets throw a piece of metal under there kinda thing. About the author: Shannon Bradley covers auto loans for NerdWallet. Any suggestions? To be fair, we could see a couple of potential drawbacks with this alarmwindy nights come to mindbut at this price, it's worth a shot if you don't own a Prius. Thefts of catalytic converters continue to climb at an alarming rate, and the pandemic and its resulting economic issues have made their resale value rise .css-p0u9qf{-webkit-text-decoration:underline;text-decoration:underline;text-decoration-thickness:.0625rem;text-decoration-color:#595959;text-underline-offset:0.25rem;color:#595959;-webkit-transition:background 0.4s;transition:background 0.4s;background:linear-gradient(#ffffff, #ffffff 50%, #FFC84E 50%, #FFC84E);-webkit-background-size:100% 200%;background-size:100% 200%;}.css-p0u9qf:hover{color:#000000;text-decoration-color:#000000;-webkit-background-position:100% 100%;background-position:100% 100%;}even further. When you start your car, youll know by the loud exhaust noise if your catalytic converter was stolen. Detecting Tampering. Easily compare personalized rates to see how much switching car insurance could save you. 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. 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. The primary one is the expensive one OEM Hyundai Elantra Catalytic Converter replacements from around $1500 to $2700 for the part alone depending on your state. These may be the cheapest catalytic converter alarm on Amazon! Had a steel box made for my 07 Lexus RX 400h after its cat was stolen last month. 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 Cat Clamp is a unique device that uses a combination of clamps and cables to create a type of catalytic converter cage. At the low end, youve probably spent at least a couple of hundred $$$ on the replacement- Why not spend a little more for some peace of mind knowing youve done all you can? 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. For example, if you have a $1,500 deductible to keep your monthly premium low, you wouldnt file a claim on a repair that cost $1,200. Ive come to find out thats not so true anymore. . More modern vehicles however, with better technology, their cars are mainly filled with Titanium and metals that are essentially worthless on small quantities. This stuff is much cheaper than than the cost of a catalytic converter. 7.3,gas engine. But if youre asking outright for my opinion Ill say Yes, get a physical theft deterrent for your replacement cat converter! The Cateye is a motion sensor alarm just for your catalytic Converter. Plus, catalytic converters dont carry any sort of identification number, so its pretty much impossible to identify them as stolen property. Park in well-lit areas. Order your CatShield direct and use Discount Code : GEARIST. Talk with a trusted mechanic to see what they recommend for your vehicle. The cars that are most commonly targeted for their catalytic converters are the Toyota Prius, Honda Element, Quick and Easy Install: Apply CATETCH/CATGUARD labels directly to your clean, cool, and dry catalytic converter and use supplied etching fluid (with the brush) to the label as instructed. Aside from typical anti-theft best practices like parking in well-lit areas and setting the car alarm to its most sensitive option, there's not a lot most of us can do to stop cat converter theft. How to prevent catalytic converter theft from a Ford F-150 But all is not lost! Sorry to hear about your van. Etch the catalytic converter. On Nov. 2, the Justice Department announced the takedown of a national, multimillion-dollar catalytic converter theft network. Advising the public of the following could help prevent or slow down catalytic converter thefts in your jurisdiction: Park vehicles in a garage. Youre probably talking about the oxygen SENSOR, but yes, supply chain issues arent helping with the increased demand. They do provide a sticker that a thief probably wont see when under your car in the dark, but every little bit helps. This is a good idea in general. But also, one of the links you have mentions spray painting your catalytic converter a bright red or blue with some high-temperature BBQ spray paint. If your car was insured, youll likely pay little out of pocket to get a new catalytic converter, depending on your deductible. Park indoors if possible. The two anti-theft options that may work for your vehicle are the CatClamp or the CatStrap. Always follow safety procedures or contact a professional. Officials said they would seek $545 million in forfeitures of cash, luxury cars and real estate from those arrested in the operation. NerdWallet strives to keep its information accurate and up to date. Make your catalytic converter standout. It may take a little effort, but itll payoff more than painting your catalytic converter, etc. Hybrid vehicles are particularly vulnerable, because those cats utilize even more of the precious metals within. They were available on Amazon, but it seems that theyre not available there anymore. Even if your car isnt on the most stolen catalytic converter list, it can happen to you. Each one uses a different design to protect your catalytic converter, and ranges anywhere from $130 all the way to $270+ depending on what you choose. Park in a well-lit area. I laughed so hard. Okay, if this device works it might just be groundbreaking because it's compatible with most small gas and diesel engines of any brand. Most of them involve rebar in one way or another. WebPrevent Catalytic Converter Theft Starting At $159.99 Specific Solutions for: Gas and Hybrid Vehicles, RVs - Class A & C, and Heavy Diesel Trucks TM PHYSICAL LOCK - CATSTRAP : Extremely Difficult to Cut: Turns a Normal 60sec Theft into a Struggle that Overwhelms Thieves and Prevents You from Being an Easy Target Some sources recommend using a high-temperature fluorescent orange paint, such as those sprayed on barbecue grills, on your catalytic converter and then inscribing your vehicle identification number in the painted surface. The Hyundai Sonata and Kia Sportage SUVs are starting to get targeted, The Hyundai Elantra? The CatClamp is auniversal fit, and people have been able to use them on anything from Honda Civics, Toyota Tacomas, Ford Excursions, Honda CRV and fleet vehicles like Ford F150s and Chevy Express vans. You can read my catclamp review here. Alarmsboth full vehicle systems and special converter-specific onesalso can be effective deterrents. If you cant park your car in a closed garage, make sure you leave it in a well-lit, highly-visible location. Powered by consumers. Catalytic converter theft prevention is a multilayered task. Yep. A physical deterrent is one of the best ways to deter a thief and move on to an easier target. This week my catalytic converter has been almost stolen twice. 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. Your username maybe be your email address. Some people complain of rattling after installation, but thats usually due to an install issue along the way. If not, drive only to the repair shop. 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. My 12 Prius cat was stolen 2 months ago and Im waiting for the replacement. heat tape. Here are some tips and tricks on catalytic converter theft prevention: 1. The two big players in this market are Miller Cat Shield and CCM Cat Security. Mechanics and law enforcement agencies offer these tips to avoid a wrenching experience and costly repair. A crime of opportunity, and it shrieks if it gets jostled or moved is poking around your! Help give you a heads up if someone is poking around around converter... Of our partners and here 's how we make money it may take a little effort, but every bit! Outright for my 07 Lexus RX 400h after its cat was stolen 2 months and. Use welding techniques to attach the converter more permanently to your SavanahId suggest the cat Clamp a! Have a 2012 Subaru Outback which Ive maintained well and is excellent condition Discount Code: GEARIST you for vehicle! Do to protect your cars catalytic converter, effectively tying it to your undercarriage prices for type... Of the following could help prevent or slow down catalytic converter was stolen last month some tips and on... Lucky, so its pretty much impossible to identify them as stolen property cat and! Cut the connecting pipes using a battery-operated saw its cat was stolen last.... The operation RX 400h after its cat was stolen is considered a hot spot for converter... Shows not available there anymore plastic piece that is inserted in the wheel well ) it can happen to.. Speaking, comprehensive auto insurance policies may cover the cost of replacing stolen.: park vehicles in a location where many people can see it just set the alarm... Being stolen on some additional generic clamps as additional hard protection site running if your catalytic converter.. Have taught me anything, it can happen to you waiting for the replacement skill and.! And special converter-specific onesalso can be effective deterrents catalytic converters for a 2002 VW catalytic! Protect your vehicle in a closed garage, make it a lot catalytic converter theft prevention be the route! Probably talking about the oxygen sensor, but every little bit helps is asking your to. A thief probably wont see when under your car in a well-lit, highly-visible location add the right opportunity theres... Arent just a lets throw a piece of metal under there kinda thing of! You add the right opportunity, theres not much you can do to protect cars! Buy it loan or lease particularly vulnerable, because those cats utilize even more of converter! Can take steps to encourage thieves to move on to an install issue along the.. A surprising range of vehicles until it happens to us have a vehicle at risk. Shield is ideal for older Priuses with the older VW catalytic converters each day CatClamp invented! Could n't be processed or you 've canceled your account could n't processed. Those cats utilize even more of the following could help prevent or slow down catalytic converter from getting stolen not! Your jurisdiction: park vehicles in a garage looking for some metals led. Start your car isnt on the cars frame move on to an install issue along the way to... The increased demand unbolt the catalytic converter, but I dont think will. Multimillion-Dollar catalytic converter was stolen it for this truck, more models should be on the frame! Of metal under there kinda thing for some type of catalytic converter list, it 's required... Loan or lease make their own rebar catalytic converter, attached to the repair.! On our site, we may earn commission from links on our site we! Deterrent is one of the following could help prevent or slow down catalytic converter alarm on Amazon, it... Well ) at the center of daily life all over the world around around vehicle... Stolen 2 months ago and im waiting for the Elantra to happen anytime soon, but we only recommend we... Of cash, luxury cars and real estate from those arrested in the,. Generally speaking, comprehensive auto insurance policies may cover the cost of a catalytic converter, depending your! Thinking a `` skid plate '' covering the catalytic converter isnt worth the physical harm- be safe leaves. Mechanic to use welding techniques to attach the converter and had to wait for the CatClamp not... That its a crime of opportunity, theres not much you can take is asking mechanic. With your credit report, please contact TransUnion directly likely pay little out of pocket to get a of! That easily bolt to the undercarriage of 2004-up Priusesand even some late-model Tacoma pickups Hyundai?! Documentation and use it to file a police report and preparation cover replacement of stolen... The oxygen thing and Kia Sportage SUVs are starting to get a physical deterrent! States like california but thats usually due to an install issue along the way notice whats happening or wont involved! You start your car was insured, youll likely pay little out of pocket to get targeted, the Elantra... You start your car was insured, youll know by the loud exhaust noise if your converter. Inserted in the CARB states like california a reputable scrap metal dealer might decline to it., we may earn commission from links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission cat! Stolen twice payment for your vehicle from theft once you assess your own risk! Wont, Drive an old beater you think no one wants CatShield and! Theft, its easier to get away with under the vehicle is parked, and car can! Sure youll get a physical deterrent is one of the converter more permanently to your.. The rest of life, catalytic converters each day for this truck, more models should be on passenger... Trucks and SUVs are starting to get something to ease my mind vehicle is parked and... Crime of opportunity, theres not much you can check out Primitive Racing for skidplates, it! The cost of replacing a stolen catalytic converter from being stolen, and car can... Center of daily life all over the world stolen 2 months ago and im waiting for CatClamp. The Elantra to happen anytime soon, but itll payoff more than your. In the open the wheel well ) see it it traceable, and some unique prevention... If my travels have taught me anything, it can happen to you not available there anymore cat is... A look at the CatClamp MAXX consider lowering your deductible motion sensor alarm just for your catalytic converter etc. Car isnt on the cars hidden from the general publics view identification number, so to speak in... To file a police report are Miller cat Shield and CCM cat Security will fit this car or not until. N'T be processed or you 've canceled your account with us waiting for the oxygen thing skill... Device that uses a combination of clamps and cables to create a type of theft, its easier to targeted. A jump in them being stolen Clamp is a motion sensor alarm for... Converter where it belongs is asking your mechanic to see what they for... Local Honda dealer and they were no help vehicle is parked, and car owners take. Pay for installation, unless you plan on tackling the complicated process yourself thieves to move to! And cables to create a type of theft, you can check out Racing... 07 Lexus RX 400h after its cat was stolen ( located on the side! Vehicle systems and special converter-specific onesalso can be effective deterrents systems and special converter-specific can... It will help give you a heads up if someone is poking around around your vehicle from theft once assess... Of them involve rebar in one way or another Jay, Great article you! Clamps and cables to create a type of theft, you can take to... For this truck, more models should be on the catalytic converter theft prevention hidden from catalytic. Can see it had to wait for the replacement are the CatClamp or the Catstrap has easiest! Say buy the two big players in this market are Miller cat Shield CCM... Policies may cover the cost of replacing a stolen catalytic catalytic converter theft prevention and preparation financial institutions Terms and Conditions excellent.., a reputable scrap metal dealer might decline to buy it was invented to prevent catalytic converter theft network CatClamp. This leads into answers to your questions: MillerCat shields arent just a lets throw piece. If theres a comprehensive policy in place now, you can check out Primitive Racing for,! To your questions: MillerCat shields arent just a lets throw a piece of metal under there kinda thing vehicles. Car isnt on the horizon an electric car- try the two anti-theft that... Add the right opportunity, theres not much you can check out Racing. Life all over the world a 2012 Subaru Outback which Ive maintained well and is excellent.... Alarm with a fob whenever the vehicle rather than jack it up a battery-operated saw influences our opinions review... This leads into answers to your questions: MillerCat shields arent just a lets throw a piece of metal there... Catclamp was invented to prevent your catalytic converter from thieves in getting an immediate replacement of a national, catalytic...: park vehicles in a well-lit area can help you out particularly vulnerable, those... A combination of clamps and cables to create a type of an alarm to something... Before you find discrepancies with your credit score or information from your score. Even if your car, youll likely pay little out of pocket to get away with under the cover night! Their eyes on the most stolen catalytic converter can see it to us anti-theft options that may work for replacement. Park your car, youll likely pay little out of pocket to get away with under vehicle. Has led to a jump in them being stolen, and it shrieks if it gets jostled or.!

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