Are you worried about your car’s catalytic converter being stolen? It’s a valid concern, as catalytic converter theft has been on the rise in recent years due to the high value of the precious metals found inside them.
However, certain cars are less likely to be targeted by thieves due to their less valuable converters.
American brands such as Ford, Chevy, Jeep, Dodge, and Chrysler tend to have less valuable catalytic converters and are therefore less likely to get stolen. Some Nissan, Hyundai, Mazda, and Subaru models also fall into this category.
Many of these brands used cat designs that limited how many precious metals were inside, making them less appealing to thieves.
However, it’s important to note that no car is completely immune to catalytic converter theft, so it’s still important to take precautions to protect your vehicle.
If you’re looking to buy a new car and are concerned about catalytic converter theft, it’s worth considering the brands and models that are less likely to be targeted.
By doing so, you can potentially save yourself the hassle and expense of having to replace a stolen converter.
And if you already own a car that is at a higher risk of theft, there are steps you can take to deter thieves, such as parking in well-lit areas and installing anti-theft devices.
READ ALSO: Why Catalytic Converters Fail: Common Causes and Prevention Tips
Do Newer Catalytic Converters Get Stolen?
You might be wondering if newer catalytic converters are more or less likely to get stolen than older ones. The answer is not so straightforward.
On one hand, newer catalytic converters are often more expensive and contain more precious metals than older ones.
This could make them more attractive to thieves looking to profit quickly.
READ ALSO: How Fast Can Thieves Remove Catalytic Converters? Surprised?
On the other hand, newer catalytic converters are often more challenging to steal due to advancements in technology. For example, some newer converters have welded brackets that make them harder to remove.
Additionally, some newer cars have security systems that can detect when a converter is being tampered with and trigger an alarm.
Whether or not a newer catalytic converter gets stolen depends on a variety of factors, such as the make and model of the car, the location of the car, and the skill level of the thief.
It is important to note that no car is completely immune to catalytic converter theft.
READ ALSO: Can You Put an Alarm on Your Catalytic Converter? Here’s What You Need to Know
To help prevent catalytic converter theft, you can take several steps, such as parking in well-lit areas, installing a security camera, and engraving your license plate number onto the converter.
Additionally, you can consider purchasing a catalytic converter theft prevention device, such as a cage or shield, to make it harder for thieves to access the converter.
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Will The Check Engine Light Come On If The Catalytic Converter Is Stolen?
If your car’s catalytic converter is stolen, you may wonder if the check engine light will come on to alert you of the issue. The answer is yes, in most cases. Here are a few reasons why:
- Oxygen sensors: A missing catalytic converter will trigger oxygen sensors in your exhaust. These sensors help regulate the air/fuel mixture in your engine and can detect when the converter is not present. When this happens, your car’s computer will usually turn on the check engine light.
- Malfunctioning catalytic converter: Even if your catalytic converter is not stolen, it can still malfunction and trigger the check engine light. This can happen if the converter becomes clogged or damaged, or if it stops working properly for any reason.
- Engine performance: When your catalytic converter is missing or malfunctioning, it can affect your car’s overall performance. You may notice a decrease in power or acceleration, or your engine may run rough.
READ ALSO: Toyota Highlander Catalytic Converter Theft (How Common Is It?)
If you do notice the check engine light come on, it’s important to have your car checked out as soon as possible. Ignoring the issue can lead to further damage and costly repairs down the line.
In summary, if your catalytic converter is stolen, the check engine light will likely come on to alert you of the issue.
However, it’s important to remember that a malfunctioning converter can also trigger the light, so it’s always best to have your car checked out by a professional if you notice any issues.
READ ALSO: Are Hybrid Catalytic Converters Easy to Steal
Frequently Asked Questions
What cars have the easiest catalytic converters to steal?
Cars that have the easiest catalytic converters to steal are those that are high off the ground, such as SUVs and trucks.
Thieves can easily slide under the vehicle and use a saw or cutting tool to remove the converter.
Additionally, cars that have their converters located in an easily accessible area, such as under the hood or near the front of the vehicle, are also easy targets.
What vehicles do not have catalytic converters?
All gasoline-powered vehicles manufactured after 1975 are required by law to have a catalytic converter.
Diesel-powered vehicles have a different type of emission control system, but they still have a similar device that reduces harmful emissions.
Do all cars get catalytic converters stolen?
No, not all cars get their catalytic converters stolen. However, some cars are more likely to be targeted by thieves due to the value of the precious metals contained in the converter.
Which cars are most likely to have catalytic converters stolen?
Cars that are most likely to have their catalytic converters stolen are those that have a higher value of precious metals in the converter, such as the Toyota Prius, Honda Element, and Honda Jazz.
Thieves can sell the stolen converters for a high price due to the metals they contain.
Are Audi catalytic converters easy to steal?
Audi catalytic converters are not necessarily easier or harder to steal than any other car. However, some Audi models, such as the Audi A3 and Audi Q5, have been targeted by thieves due to the value of the metals contained in the converter.
It is important to take precautions to protect your vehicle, regardless of the make and model.
Jack is the owner, chief editor, and senior writer of this website.
Machinery, engines, and farming have always been a passion of his since he was a young boy. Growing up on a small farm in rural America, he learned the value of hard work and dedication from an early age.
After completing his degree in Engineering, he decided to follow his dream and became a farmer in 2009.
Since then, he has gained a wealth of knowledge and experience in the field. He has grown a variety of crops, tended to farm animals, and worked with all sorts of farming machinery. Continue reading…
