​Rising Risk of Catalytic Converter Theft

Your car’s catalytic converter sits quietly under your vehicle converting the engine’s harmful emissions into safe gases, such as steam. Catalytic converters often last 10 years or longer, but in recent years catalytic converters have become more attractive to thieves. 

Catalytic converter thieves are probably after what’s inside the catalytic converter. The precious metals that help a catalytic converter work its magic are in high demand as prices for these metals soar. A catalytic converter can fetch hundreds of dollars at a scrap yard. Replacing one can cost up to $1,000 or more. An experienced thief can saw off a converter and slither away in just minutes.

Often, the first indication that your catalytic converter has gone missing is a noticeably louder engine, much like the sound you hear when a car has a hole in the muffler or no muffler at all. If your normally quiet vehicle sounds like a rolling armored battalion when you turn the key in the ignition, you may have been the victim of catalytic converter theft.

Is catalytic converter theft covered by insurance?

If you have comprehensive insurance on your vehicle, your policy can cover theft, including theft of parts, such as factory wheels or catalytic converters. However, your deductible also plays a role. 

The deductible is part of the claim you pay. You choose your deductible amount, but a minimum deductible may apply. For example, if you choose a $500 deductible, the insurer will deduct $500 from the covered claim settlement. A higher deductible, such as $1,000, can prevent a claim payout at all for some losses. 

The deductible helps keep insurance costs down by reducing frivolous claims. But you can choose your deductible for comprehensive or collision coverage independently. 

Ask your broker for coverage quotes at a higher or lower deductible. In many cases, the difference in cost for a lower deductible may not be significant, particularly for comprehensive insurance. With a lower deductible, you may pay a bit more for coverage, but your coverage offers better protection for losses such as parts theft because your policy can cover more of the claim.

Take steps to protect your vehicle

Some auto accessories providers sell self-install metal cages to protect your catalytic converter, but no solution is fool-proof. Cages or similar devices can’t stop a thief, but they might slow thieves down, perhaps convincing them to find an easier target. 

You can also exercise care in where you park. For example, if you have the option of parking in a garage, that may be a safer location than parking on the street. 

If garage parking isn’t available, look for well-lit areas that are easily seen by others. The added visibility may act as a deterrent to would-be thieves.