A catalytic converter is a type of exhaust emission control that helps turn toxic gases produced during internal combustion into less harmful ones before they’re released into the atmosphere.
This helps protect our environment as well as our health,
Unfortunately, catalytic converters are constantly targeted by thieves since their parts can be sold for high prices. So, this might make you wonder which brand of car is most likely to be a target for catalytic converter thieves.
Let’s take a look at one of the most common car manufacturers: Are Mercedes catalytic converters easy to steal?
Are Mercedes Catalytic Converters Easy To Steal?
There’s some bad news for all Mercedes car owners: the catalytic converter is quite easy to steal. In fact, the catalytic converters in most vehicles are quite accessible, which makes stealing them an easy job for thieves.
As a result, it’s important to take some precautions to avoid getting your catalytic converter stolen and paying a fortune to have it replaced.
Why are Mercedes catalytic converters easy to steal?
On most Mercedes models, catalytic converters are rather accessible. In fact, it only takes a couple of minutes for thieves to remove it without anyone noticing.
Mercedes cars also contain quite valuable catalytic converters. This means that their value on the black market is high, which makes them a common target for thieves.
Do all Mercedes vehicles have catalytic converters?
All Mercedes models that are powered by fossil fuels have catalytic converters. For many years, it’s been the law for such vehicles to be equipped with this type of exhaust emission to reduce their negative impact on our environment.
With that said, Mercedes now also produces electric vehicles, such as the Mercedes EQS. This car is fully electric, which means it doesn’t contain a catalytic converter, as there’s no combustion happening in the engine.
Where is the catalytic converter located on a Mercedes car?
The catalytic converter is located between the muffler and the engine on most Mercedes models. Unfortunately, this location is quite accessible, making it an easy target for thieves.
What’s more, some Mercedes vehicles have a dual exhaust system, so they have two catalytic converters. One of located at the front, while the other is at the back.
In this case, the main catalytic converter is more easily accessible, so it’s more likely to be stolen. But there still have been reports of users having both catalytic converters stolen.
So, be sure to keep your car safe from theft as much as possible.
Which Mercedes model is most likely to have its catalytic converter stolen?
Almost all Mercedes models are a common target for catalytic converter thieves, but some are more prone than others.
In general, SUVs, sedans, and trucks offer much easier access to the catalytic converter. These cars are higher from the ground, giving thieves more space to work.
So, if you own a Mercedes SUV or sedan model, be particularly careful about keeping your car safe.
The most commonly targeted models include Mercedes-Benz GLA, Mercedes-Benz EQC, and other SUV models.
How do I know if I had my catalytic converter stolen?
If you’re not knowledgeable when it comes to the car’s internal build, it might be hard for you to tell whether someone has stolen your catalytic converter.
Luckily, there are some ways you can tell someone has tampered with your car and removed this piece of equipment.
The first indication that the catalytic converter might be missing from your Mercedes vehicle is loud noise after starting the engine.
The catalytic converter is an integral part of the exhaust system. So, removing it can cause problems in how your car functions and performs.
You may also see a warning light appear on your dashboard, often relating to the oxygen sensor. It’s important not to ignore this light, as it might have several causes. So, be sure to check with a mechanic.
Another sign indicating that the catalytic converter might be missing from your car is the exhaust smell inside the car. This often happens because there’s nothing filtering the toxic substances produced during internal combustion.
When that happens, get your car services as soon as possible, as inhaling these gases is dangerous to your health.
How can you avoid Mercedes catalytic converter theft?
Even though Mercedes cars tend to be a target for catalytic converter thieves, there are some ways you can lower your risk of having this part of the exhaust emission control stolen.
Firstly, make sure to park your car in a well-lit area. Dark, secluded locations give thieves more time and space to remove the catalytic converter and steal it.
So, by parking your car in public areas, you’re lowering your risk of theft.
Many people also choose to buy an anti-theft device that protects the catalytic converter. These devices often contain a hard wire that wraps around the catalytic converter.
This wire is hard to cut through, making your car less of a target. You can also paint your catalytic converter, thus reducing its scrap value.
If the thief sees that your catalytic converter is painted, they’re less likely to steal it since they won’t make a profit.
Plus, painting the catalytic converter doesn’t affect its functionality, so you can safely do so without worrying about damaging it.
Finally, the best way to protect your Mercedes car is to park it in a private garage, preferably close to your house. That way, you can keep an eye on your car and instantly call the police if an incident occurs.
Conclusion
As you can see, most Mercedes models are common targets for catalytic converter thieves. Mercedes-Benz is a luxury brand, which means that its catalytic converters also have a very high scrap value.
As a result, it’s important to park your car close to your house and in well-lit areas to avoid theft. You may also want to invest in an anti-theft device that can be installed on the catalytic converter itself.
That way, you can avoid spending a ton of money on replacing this piece of equipment.
Sources: Mercedes-Benz, Congressional Research Service, and Research Gate
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…
