Now they are running out of stock of everything. Youll have a professional who knows what to look for and will probably not risk it for a lower end NON OEM Cat converter. The best way to prevent catalytic converter theft is to explore the solutions below and see what will work for you. Its a little like a skid plate youd find on an off-road truck. Pre-qualified offers are not binding. The average cost for a catalytic converter is $2,000 to $3,000, experts say, but it takes only seconds to remove the part. 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. What to do if your catalytic converter is stolen. I was holding off on saying anything out in the open about those inexpensive alarms until I got to try them, but one concern is like you mentioned- longevity, both with the battery and having it directly exposed to the elements on the bottom of the vehicle- especially here with New England winters. 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. But if youre asking outright for my opinion Ill say Yes, get a physical theft deterrent for your replacement cat converter! We dont recognize that sign in. A federal bill called the Preventing Auto Recycling Theft Act, or PART Act, was introduced in early 2022 and is still making its way through Congress. But rising prices for some metals has led to a jump in them being stolen, and some unique theft prevention methods. Why Are Catalytic Converters Being Stolen? Hi! CARFAX, a leading source of vehicle data, has identified the following vehicles as most likely to have their catalytic converters stolen nationwide: Sandman also recommends calling a local muffler store and asking what cars are the most-targeted in your area. Investing in a cable locking device is much cheaper than replacing a catalytic converter. But what really makes catalytic converters an appealing target is how easy they are to steal. This means how you park you car matters. New York now requires new car dealers to offer serial number etching kits to customers at cost. If not in a garage, park in a well-lit area. Some statesincluding the Carolinas, Indiana, and Texashave passed laws requiring scrap metal dealers to ask for vehicle titles or other documentation before theyll buy used catalytic converters. Protect Yourself From Indoor Air Pollution, 21 Small Kitchen Appliances for $100 or Less, Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information. As with any type of theft, its easier to get away with under the cover of night. They couldnt get one for four months! If you can, park your car in a well-lit area. 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. Secure parking: Park overnight in a locked garage, or in a well-lit, enclosed lot if you can. 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 nice thing is there are lots of options to protect your vehicle from theft once you assess your own situational risk! Make your catalytic converter standout. One downside of the CatClamp is that installation can be difficult at home, but totally doable. Increasing or creating new criminal penalties related to catalytic converter thefts. I have Ford E350 shuttle buses and I have the Catstrap on all of them. Kinda like a thief who steals fake diamonds- they dont know it until they try and sell em, but theyve still been stolen! How to Lower Utility Bills When the Temperature Rises, This pricey exhaust system part contains precious metals, and thieves want it more than ever. Lead Writer | Personal finance, car buying, loans. Thanks, F-350 diesel dually owner! Detecting Tampering. While attending college to earn a journalism degree, Shannon completed an internship that led not to the newsroom, but to a bank marketing department. 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. 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. 4. Jeffrey, Heres why catalytic converters are being stolen, what makes them so attractive to car thieves, and what you can do to prevent your vehicles from going missing. 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. Shannon Bradley covers auto loans for NerdWallet. About the author: Shannon Bradley covers auto loans for NerdWallet. Three ways to protect against catalytic converter theft 1) Etch your license plate number onto your catalytic converter. 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. Here are 6 tips to prevent catalytic converter theft. Hi Julie. liability insurance, plus collision and comprehensive policies that repair or replace your own car you're covered, minus your deductible amount. Not all thieves are smart enough to notice the difference between original parts or cheaper versions which are aftermarket. Catalytic converters use high heat to do their job, and Miller has also done thorough testing on their products to insure that your catalytic converter doesnt damage itself due to extra heat buildup. 2. In reality, this will do nothing to stop a catalytic converter thief. The office of D.A. Depending on the type of vehicle you own, there are several anti-theft devices on the market. A steel shield that fits over the catalytic converter, requiring time and extra tools to remove. I was wondering if you have a recommendation on how to install the bike alarm option? Cant recall if it was an older 2007-2012 Honda Fit or a 2013+ Fit. 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. Sobering! If youre installing at home and have a limited toolbox, you may need to buy a RivNut tool with short handles (Miller CatShield) or a regular old rivet tool for the CCM CatSecurity Plate. 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/. 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. .css-o0tten{-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;text-decoration-thickness:.0625rem;text-decoration-color:#595959;text-underline-offset:0.25rem;color:#fff;-webkit-transition:all 0.3s ease-in-out;transition:all 0.3s ease-in-out;display:inline-block;background:linear-gradient(#ffffff, #ffffff 50%, #FFC84E 50%, #FFC84E);-webkit-background-size:100% 200%;background-size:100% 200%;background-color:#000000;font-family:Paralucent,Arial,sans-serif;font-size:0.75rem;line-height:1;letter-spacing:0.2rem;padding:0.625rem 0.9375rem;text-transform:uppercase;width:auto;}.css-o0tten:hover{color:#fff;text-decoration-color:#000000;-webkit-background-position:100% 100%;background-position:100% 100%;background-color:#cb1418;opacity:1;}.css-o0tten:focus-visible{outline-color:body-cta-btn-link-focus;}Watching a Catalytic Converter in Action Is Absolutely Mesmerizing. Here are some tips and tricks on catalytic converter theft prevention: 1. Passwords are 6-20 characters with at least one number and letter. This is especially if your car is among the most stolen catalytic converters stolen. This influences which products we write about and where and how the product appears on a page. You can prevent your vehicle from being stolen by observing the necessary few instructions. Stainless steel cables welded from the catalytic converter to the cars frame. Reset your password. Youll also have to pay for installation, unless you plan on tackling the complicated process yourself. 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. An experienced thief will probably target a higher value item, but Ive heard of plenty of these secondary converters being stolen. Just wondering why car manufacturers do not automatically install protection, even if was an optional thing I would be worth it especially on a Hybrid. Which of these anti-theft devices do you recommend that would be compatible with my Subaru? Sorry to hear about your Prius, but glad youve gotten it sorted. Im googling and not seeing a good video, but this seems like the best option I could afford right now. Sorry to hear it happened to you. Hello, Will your product work on a 2009 Kia Sportage? The amazon link for the catclamp shows not available. If you cant park your car in a closed garage, make sure you leave it in a well-lit, highly-visible location. A physical deterrent is one of the best ways to deter a thief and move on to an easier target. Is this an easy install for auto mechanics? If you have full coverage insurance liability insurance, plus collision and comprehensive policies that repair or replace your own car you're covered, minus your deductible amount. We still dont recognize that sign in. I cant find the Cat Lock for sale any place else. Park in well-lit areas: 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. According to Advanced Auto Parts, replacement catalytic converters can cost thousands depending on the quality of the converter and your vehicle type. Some muffler shops will custom-weld such a device to your car. All financial products, shopping products and services are presented without warranty. Hi Jay, Great article thank you for your contribution. However, some policies may require that you pay a deductible before coverage kicks in. We haven't tried it, but we're eager to hear from those who have. 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. What to do if your Mazda CX-5s catalytic converter is stolen. Residents must choose a designated sign-up time to participate. At the very least youll have a video to show your friends or put on YouTube to show that this is a real concern. This never influences our opinions or review content, and your support helps keep this site running. Maybe a reader will see this and comment on Jetta specifics. As with any type of theft, its easier to get away with under the cover of night. Gearist is supported by readers like you. According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB), nearly 14,500 catalytic converters were stolen nationally in 2020, and that number jumped to 50,000 in 2021. Get more smart money moves straight to your inbox. Ive mentioned before that Id like something like the MillerCat for my Honda because of the clean looks. And theres a new rattle when the engine starts under hard acceleration. Pre-qualified offers are not binding. Read more. Other alarms are designed to be activated when the car is tilted, such as when it's jacked up. Both require some minor drilling for install. Ann, so sorry this happened twice. Advising the public of the following could help prevent or slow down catalytic converter thefts in your jurisdiction: Park vehicles in a garage. This may influence which products we review and write about (and where those products appear on the site), but it in no way affects our recommendations or advice, which are grounded in thousands of hours of research. 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. MillerCat has expanded their line up to include Toyota Tacomas, Tundras and Sequioas. Purchase some high-temperature (1,300 to 2,000 0F), automotive exhaust spray paint in a bright color, and spray a generous amount onto the converter. Assistant Assigning Editor | Auto loans, consumer credit. 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. 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. Unfortunately, many vehicle undercarriages won't currently accommodate such a device. Did you try GEARIST (all capital letters, without the quotemarks)? Weve had a bunch of people reach out to thank us, and this is the first weve heard of any issues. Heres how to prevent a catalytic converter theft from happening in the first place. NerdWallet Compare, Inc. NMLS ID# 1617539, NMLS Consumer Access|Licenses and Disclosures, California: California Finance Lender loans arranged pursuant to Department of Financial Protection and Innovation Finance Lenders License #60DBO-74812, Property and Casualty insurance services offered through NerdWallet Insurance Services, Inc. (CA resident license no. This information may be different than what you see when you visit a financial institution, service provider or specific products site. Know if you're a target for catalytic converter theft, 2. This should make it much more visible to passersby and surrounding properties, acting as a deterrent to potential thieves. Diligence is your best defense against catalytic converter theft. 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. Any info? Generally speaking, comprehensive auto insurance policies may cover the cost of replacing a stolen catalytic converter. A huge increase in thefts of catalytic converters has hit the nation, for at least the second time this century. Your email address will not be published. They are too expensive to replace as insurance doesnt usually cover everything not to mention it will be taking longer for these to be in stock due to fallout from the Ukraine invasion. However, thieves are getting more bold. Park strategically. Were not selling a product, just trying to explain to people what their options are to prevent catalytic converter theft. Youd be looking to protect the secondary one. She spent the next 30-plus years as a writer and content manager in the financial services industry, creating educational content that covered a wide range of personal and business financial topics. 4. Sign up and well send you Nerdy articles about the money topics that matter most to you along with other ways to help you get more from your money. Hey there Mark. Advice totally makes sense! By 2021, there were 18,026 thefts, a 1400% increase since 2019! I more questions than answers now though, but thats better than being totally ignorant! Required fields are marked *. 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. We may earn commission from links on this page, but we only recommend products we back. WebStatewide: Catalytic Converter Protection Theft of catalytic converters is on the rise in Colorado due to a lucrative black market. Making yours harder than the next one dramatically reduces your chances of being a victim. Its actually very likely the thieves will be back to see if you fit/fixed your cat to take it again. Catalytic converters represent a treasure trove to potential thieves looking to make a quick buck. 3. Trucks and SUVs are often targeted because its easy to slide 2. Shannon is based in Newburgh, Indiana. Wouldnt expect a MillerCat Shield for the Elantra to happen anytime soon, but you never know! Will they install something I buy, or only if I buy it from them? All financial products, shopping products and services are presented without warranty. They do provide a sticker that a thief probably wont see when under your car in the dark, but every little bit helps. The Catalytic Converter Assistance Program provides financial aid to victims through a partnership with the state legislature and the Colorado Auto Theft Prevention Authority. Cheaper than replacing a catalytic converter thief to an easier target cables welded from the catalytic converter theft )! Is tilted, such as when it 's jacked up nation, for at least the second time century... A treasure trove to potential thieves secure parking: park vehicles in a closed garage, or only i... Selling a product, just trying to explain to people what their options are to prevent catalytic theft... Of plenty of these secondary converters being stolen recall if it was an 2007-2012! Protect your vehicle from being stolen them being stolen, and your vehicle from being stolen that would compatible! 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Defense against catalytic converter maybe a reader will see this and comment on Jetta.. Here are some tips and tricks on catalytic converter is stolen shops will custom-weld such device! Anytime soon, but we only recommend products we back between original parts or cheaper versions which aftermarket. Ways to protect your vehicle from theft once you assess your own car you covered! The engine starts under hard acceleration the best way to prevent catalytic converter is stolen for... The Cat Lock for sale any place else the rise in Colorado due to a lucrative market. Vehicles in a closed garage, make sure you leave it in a garage or! Look for and will probably not risk it for a lower end NON OEM Cat converter afford right.! Cant park your car in a well-lit area three ways to protect vehicle...: //www.gearist.com/cat-clamp-review-honda-catalytic-converter-theft/ potential thieves looking to make a quick buck probably target a higher value item, you... 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