Which Cars Are Least Likely to Have Catalytic Converter Stolen?

Catalytic converter theft is a frustrating problem that can cost you thousands of dollars to repair. Learning how these thieves operate can help you reduce your risks. But, which cars are least likely to have catalytic converter stolen?

Cars from Jeep, Chrysler, Ford, Dodge, Chevrolet, Nissan, Mazda, Subaru, and Hyundai are least likely to be targeted. Because cars from these brands use smaller catalytic converters with fewer precious metals, making them less valuable to steal.

Thankfully, if you drive a car from one of these brands, you’re in a slightly better position compared to others.

Because it turns out, not all catalytic converters are the same. Manufacturers have been working hard to shrink the overall size of the converter. The result – converters that contain fewer precious metals, making them less valuable to thieves.

And if you own a car from one of these brands, chances are, they sit lower to the ground. This makes it more difficult for criminals to get under them.

When they cannot access the underside of your car easily, it limits their opportunities.

However, with catalytic converter theft on the rise, you’ll want to take some precautions. No matter if you have a high value target vehicle or not.

Here’s everything you need to know about catalytic converter theft and how to avoid it.

Which Cars Are Least Likely to Have Catalytic Converter Stolen by Thieves?

Cars in particular are not targeted for converter theft as much as SUVs or Trucks. Additionally, many auto manufacturers have recently moved the converter closer to the front of the car, making it more difficult to access.

Stealing converters has, unfortunately, become a real problem for vehicle owners. But the truth is, there’s some value in every converter.

Thieves steal catalytic converters for the high-value metals they contain, which they can pawn for a quick buck. A coordinated team can get the job done in less than 90 seconds. Being long gone before anyone suspects a crime has been committed.

To protect your vehicle, it can be helpful to take precautions so that thieves are less likely to target it.

There are some trends as to what thieves choose to target. Also some safety precautions you can take to avoid theft.

Keep the following tips in mind whenever you are out and about to avoid theft:

• Garage park your car if possible
• In a large parking lot, park in a well-lit area
• Park by a curb to reduce access the underside of your vehicle

What Do Thieves Target?

Thieves will target anything and everything if they are desperate enough. But they will always be on the lookout for a quick hit. If you own a hybrid like a Toyota Prius, be particularly careful.

With pre-2009 models particularly, these vehicles have lots of precious metals that make them a high-value target.

Trucks and SUVs are also prime targets because the thieves don’t need to jack up the car to conduct the theft.

What Vehicles Have the Easiest Catalytic Converters to Steal?

Here is a list of the cars and trucks that have seen more catalytic converter crime than any other model:

• 1985-2021 Ford F-Series
• 1989-2020 Honda Accord
• 2007-17 Jeep Patriot
• 1990-2022 Ford Econoline
• 1999-2021 Chevrolet Silverado
• 2005-21 Chevrolet Equinox
• 1997-2020 Honda CR-V
• 1987-2019 Toyota Camry
• 2011-17 Chrysler 200
• 2001-21 Toyota Prius

Lastly, thieves may target cars parked in the same place at the same time every day. Informing them that no one is around to stop them.

By learning what can make your vehicle vulnerable, you can help protect against this theft from happening to yours.

How do I Make Sure my Catalytic Converter Doesn’t Get Stolen?

Should you choose, you can install a security device that makes the converter harder to remove or an alarm that activates with vibration.

If you want to go the extra mile, ask your mechanic to engrave your license plate number on the converter.

This etching helps investigators if the converter is recovered and might deter thieves since recycling centers will report marked converters to the police.

What Car Has The Best Catalytic Converters to Steal?

If you drive a Prius, Tacoma, Lexus SUV or Honda Accord it could be in the crosshairs of thieving catalytic converter snatchers! Keep your beloved car safe and sound with some extra locking measures.

Which State Has The Most Catalytic Converters Stolen?

California has taken the top spot for one unfortunate distinction: it’s become a haven for catalytic converter theft.

In fact, State Farm reports that claims for stolen auto parts have increased exponentially compared to previous years. Californians car owners beware!

How do Thieves Steal A Catalytic Converter?

With a battery-powered reciprocating saw, car thieves can slide underneath and quickly snatch your catalytic converter straight from the exhaust system.

Does Spray Painting Your Catalytic Converter Prevent Theft?

Using a high temperature spray paint to mark your converter with a bright color can help deter theft. Bright paint might not stop a thief in their tracks, but it can be enough to alert them that your catalytic converter is being watched.

Not only does this make potential bad guys think twice about targeting you, but law enforcement and recyclers know immediately if something shady’s going on.

How Many Catalytic Converters Have Been Stolen in 2022?

Stolen catalytic converters became an epidemic in the year ending June 2022. State Farm, the biggest auto insurer in the U.S, reported more than 43,200 converters were stolen that year.

Claims for these stolen parts had also doubled compared to previous years.

Final Thoughts

Turns out, there are some things you can do to prevent your converter from being stolen in the first place.

So which cars are least likely to have catalytic converter stolen? Some car brands like Jeep, Chrysler, Ford, Dodge, Chevrolet, Nissan, Mazda, Subaru, and Hyundai have made it more difficult for criminals to get under the car and steal the converter.

And while all converters contain precious metals that make them valuable to thieves, manufacturers have been working hard to shrink the overall size of converters – which means they contains fewer precious metals.

The idea of having your converter stolen isn’t a pleasant one, especially given how expensive they are to replace. Take some extra precautions with where you park and take additional security measures if you have a high-priority vehicle.

Has your catalytic converter ever been stolen? Share your story in the comments below.