catalytic converter theft preventioncatalytic converter theft prevention

WebA pr. For around 30 bucks or so for a twin pack it may be worth a shot. Sorry to hear it happened to you. She spent more than 30 years in banking as a writer of financial education content. For only $300 we will install a catalytic converter shield that prevents theft of this necessary and critical vehicle component. I drive a Ford E350 bus. That means buying an electric car. How to prevent catalytic converter theft from a Ford F-150 But all is not lost! Detecting Tampering. Of course, a determined thief will just remove the guard to get to the cat, but remembercatalytic converter thieves exist because cats are easy and fast to steal. Unfortunately, no one we know of makes a protector shield of any kind for the Kia Sportage. Hi I called Hyundai and could not get any help from them. Set an alarm or camera to catch thieves. Etch the catalytic converter. MillerCat has been listening and expanding their line up to include Toyota Tacomas, Toyota Tundras and Sequoias, but nothing for the Honda CRV- yet. Contact the police. Park in well-lit areas: Parking in a well-lit area can deter potential thieves and make it easier for you or passersby to spot any suspicious activity. Right now in my neighborhood the Honda CRVs are being targeted. Cat Clamp seems very inviting right about now. If you can change your own oil or are mechanically inclined, DIY install is within your reach. They do recommend adding on some additional generic clamps as additional hard protection. The two anti-theft options that may work for your vehicle are the CatClamp or the CatStrap. Buy a catalytic converter clamp. We recommend our users to update the browser. Unfortunately, i dont know the model year of the Fit that ive seen the install on. Always follow safety procedures or contact a professional. Trucks and SUVs are often targeted because its easy to slide under the vehicle rather than jack it up. Id want it pointing down, but kind of hidden near my catalytic converter because if these work how I think they do, theyre easy to bypass where they have it mounted in the video. Her personal finance insight has been featured on Forbes, The Boston Globe and CNBC throughout the years. A mildly educated catalytic converter thief would see the sticker, know where to look for the easily accessible alarm and just have a partner put their hand over it or a quick wrap of duct tape to muffle the noise then get to work stealing your cat converter. Consider replacing it with a theft-resistant catalytic converter. There are a few subtle differences, but theyre pretty similar in design. Im 62, definitely not handy, and drive a 2020 Ford Fusion Hybrid. However, most thieves would rather work in the dark and away from a high-risk situation. As theyre expanding their cat shield line up, it looks like theyre tackling the vehicles that are likely targets for catalytic converter theft. Thanks for any help. 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. For every device listed here, ive seen both the pros and cons of each. Ask your mechanic if driving your car without the catalytic converter will further damage it. Mechanics and law enforcement agencies offer these tips to avoid a wrenching experience and costly repair. Then theres the not so savvy guy wholl swipe whatever he can! Miller Cat Shield wouldnt take the discount code Gearist! To be honest, I guarantee you that they will be back. So how do we make money? If you can, park your car in a well-lit area. Hi Jay, Great article thank you for your contribution. Im going to tell you what no one wants to hear about protecting your catalytic converter from theft. Acat shield is a plate of metal that attaches to the bottom of your car and guards your catalytic converter. A good muffler shop should know what's legal. NICB says insurance policies can cover replacement of a stolen catalytic converter, but only if theres a comprehensive policy in place. My reporting has taken me everywhere from Baghdad, Iraq, to the Detroit auto show, along the U.S.-Mexico border and everywhere in between. stainless zip ties. Personally, Id do the CatClamp if it would work (Ive never installed one on an Elantra). That's why I'm so jazzed to be shining light on what works, what doesn't, and how people can enrich their lives by being smarter consumers. I am waiting on them to contact me but thought you might have a suggestion. The CatClamp MAXX claims to form a nearly unbreakable barrier around your cat converter with a 5/16-inch-thick stainless steel cable that fits around 1 3/4- to 3-inch exhaust pipes. These may be the cheapest catalytic converter alarm on Amazon! Contact your insurance company and take pictures of the damaged exhaust pipe where the catalytic converter used to be. Gearist never sells your information to third-parties. Even cheaper is the CatStrap with an easier installation process. Thieves are targeting catalytic converters in greater numbers than ever. 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. Id say Cat Clamp! We may earn commission from links on this page, but we only recommend products we back. Even if your car isnt on the most stolen catalytic converter list, it can happen to you. Because theyre model specific to your Prius or Element, installation is fairly straight forward. May 13, 2021 - Investigators in the Houston Police Department Auto Theft Division are warning motorists to be aware of a rising national crime that has also hit Houston: catalytic converter thefts. A professional will know what to look for, the casual thief thinking he can make a few extra bucks wont know until its already stolen from your vehicle. That number rose over 400% to 6021 in 2020. This Grill Caddy Carries Utensils, Condiments and More for Smoother Barbecues, Upgrade Your Garage with This Family Handyman Approved DeWalt Socket Wrench Set, Family Handyman Approved: Sea Foam Motor Treatment, Do not Sell or Share My Personal Information. 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. Aside from comprehensive insurance coverage and setting your alarm to its most sensitive setting, is there anything we vehicle owners can do to make sure we're not stuck with expensive repairs? It may take a little effort, but itll payoff more than painting your catalytic converter, etc. Here is a list of our partners and here's how we make money. Trucks, which are higher off the ground, are at greater risk, simply because the converters are easier for thieves to access. Passwords are 6-20 characters with at least one number and letter. When I first started this catalytic converter obsession 5 years ago, the shops I spoke with all said the same thing: The thieves will never steal an after market catalytic converter. Depending on your car alarm to stop catalytic converter theft? This should make it much more visible to passersby and surrounding properties, acting as a deterrent to potential thieves. Assistant Assigning Editor | Auto loans, consumer credit. By adding bright paint, you can create a visible deterrent to alert thieves to move on. This leads into answers to your questions: MillerCAT shields arent just a lets throw a piece of metal under there kinda thing. Check your passenger side fender liner and see if its loose and/or missing bolts. Called local Honda dealer and they were no help. Not only to protect your catalytic converter, but to stop other crimes of opportunity. what went wrong? 19. The payment for your account couldn't be processed or you've canceled your account with us. The Catstrap has the easiest setup for a DIY protection installation. All financial products, shopping products and services are presented without warranty. Where you park your car wont make a difference and where you live doesnt matter. Buy a catalytic converter clamp. They took mine although I caught them in the act, they threatened me with machetes saying they would kill me if I didnt go back in my house and close the door as they were doing it on my drive literally few feet away from my front door. From what were seeing, theres been a huge increase in cat converter theft on pickup trucks and vans like your Ford E-250. Ive mentioned before that Id like something like the MillerCat for my Honda because of the clean looks. Otherwise, as Ive said to Kathryn and Paige in the comments: Make a few phone calls to some independent garages and muffler shops and see if they heard of the CatClamp. We still dont recognize that sign in. Thefts of the converters in the city so far in 2021 have increased by 300% compared to the same time period last year. Im assuming your e350 bus is on a van cutaway chassis? 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. If I remember correctly, A 2013 Hyundai Elantra has two catalytic converters, one built into the manifold up at the engine and one underneath the car as part of the exhaust run. But Sandman cautions that attaching the catalytic converter directly to the cars frame can be noisy since the exhaust system otherwise is suspended from the car by sound-buffering hangers. Install an anti-theft device on your catalytic converter, 4. On Nov. 2, the Justice Department announced the takedown of a national, multimillion-dollar catalytic converter theft network. Thanks! I do think the Amazon catalytic converter alarms can be an inexpensive part of your strategy for protection, but just not out in the open. Will they install something I buy, or only if I buy it from them? In this particular model that Jay mentions (of which there are extremely similar ones on Amazon for bikes, etc.) Some muffler shops will custom-weld such a device to your car. The Hyundai Sonata and Kia Sportage SUVs are starting to get targeted, The Hyundai Elantra? Anti-theft devices: Catalytic converter anti-theft devices are available from various manufacturers and range from steel plates protecting the underside of the vehicle to cages made from steel cables that are meant to discourage thieves from stealing a converter by making removal more time-consuming, which in turn increases the thiefs exposure to getting caught. My older model Prius had its 2nd cat stolen even though it had a Miller cat shield. But for people worried about getting ripped off now, NICB says there are some steps that can be taken to protect your car. Park in well-lit areas: 2. Hate to say it, but with the economy going the way it is, desperation can bring out the worst in people. Well have to look into that link, but try CatClamp.com if you cant find it on Amazon. Make Your Car a Difficult Target. Make your catalytic converter standout. 3. If you drive one of the high target vehicles like the Toyota Prius or Honda Element, you can buy one of several catalytic converter shields to protect that Toyota Prius catalytic converter. Your email address will not be published. Cages made of high-strength steel that's difficult to cut. 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. Home Tools, Gear & Equipment Tools & Supplies Automotive Tools & Supplies. Not all thieves are smart enough to notice the difference between original parts or cheaper versions which are aftermarket. To be fair, we could see a couple of potential drawbacks with this alarmwindy nights come to mindbut at this price, it's worth a shot if you don't own a Prius. That opens up alot more room and attachment options for a DIY / homebrew solution, like a rebar cage to protect your catalytic converter. Weve had a bunch of people reach out to thank us, and this is the first weve heard of any issues. The converters contain precious Catalytic converters contain platinum, palladium, and rhodiumexpensive precious metals that react with exhaust gasses, heat up a ceramic honeycomb element, and convert harmful combustion byproducts, such as nitrogen oxide and carbon monoxide, into less harmful gasses. Hello. It uses a heat activated adhesive, kind of like a peel-n-stick setup. liability insurance, plus collision and comprehensive policies that repair or replace your own car you're covered, minus your deductible amount. Think about when you have your hand covering your mobile phone speaker. Although professional installation is suggested, If youre comfortable changing your own oil you shouldnt have a problem installing this yourself. Email: The cost of replacing a stolen catalytic converter, Tips for avoiding catalytic converter theft, 1. WebConsider these tips to help protect your car from catalytic converter theft: Know if your car is a likely target: hybrids, SUVs and trucks have valuable or easily removable catalytic converters. Hi Mary. That was so funny about the electric car. Here are a few things that you can do to keep your Ford F-150 safe and sound: Park in a safe area Park your truck in a secure, well-lit area. Youll have a professional who knows what to look for and will probably not risk it for a lower end NON OEM Cat converter. Park in a well-lit area. Heres a MillerCAT Cat Shield on a Prius V. Notice the louvers to promote airflow to reduce heat buildup. Sorry to hear about your van. Since we first wrote this article, MillerCat has expanded their line up. Should I get the catshield? Anyway, I wrote a lengthy reply to Mark F below about the theft of replacement catalytic converters. Advising the public of the following could help prevent or slow down catalytic converter thefts in your jurisdiction: Park vehicles in a garage. Which would be most effective to deter successful vicious thieves, the Cat Strap or the Cat Clamp? Of course, a determined thief will just remove the guard to get to the cat, but remembercatalytic converter thieves exist because cats are easy and fast to steal. I know trucks are higher, but at least cars are protected. This means how you park you car matters. We are no longer supporting IE (Internet Explorer), pop up in the news every late winter and early spring. If not, drive only to the repair shop. If my travels have taught me anything, it's that stuffconsumer productsis at the center of daily life all over the world. Theres a recent trend of Prius cat thefts happening where the thief pries/ unbolts the passenger side fender liner. Also get to know your neighbors and join neighborhood networks such as NextDoor to be aware of strangers in the area or reports of theft. At the low end, youve probably spent at least a couple of hundred $$$ on the replacement- Why not spend a little more for some peace of mind knowing youve done all you can? I always say go for the CatClamp if it fits. The thieves dont care. I have Ford E350 shuttle buses and I have the Catstrap on all of them. Know if you're a target for catalytic converter theft, 2. I personally have never installed a CatClamp (or any other Catalytic Converter device) on that specific vehicle. Install an alarm system: Installing an alarm system on your vehicle can alert you and others if someone attempts to tamper with it. If not same low life scums, then some others will try. And it seems that bystanders either dont notice whats happening or wont get involved. Talk with a trusted mechanic to see what they recommend for your vehicle. Can you confirm that? I also recall your Elantra has a plastic splash shield under the engine. Is one of these worth it for you? You can watch their install video here. This new trend has made it important to protect not just whats inside your car, but whats underneath your car. What to do if your catalytic converter is stolen. I really like the thought of this and you can purchase this separately from the CatStrap. And while our site doesnt feature every company or financial product available on the market, were proud that the guidance we offer, the information we provide and the tools we create are objective, independent, straightforward and free. Check out the comments on this page https://www.gearist.com/cat-clamp-review-honda-catalytic-converter-theft/ where I go into a detailed description. These are actually the cars targeted the most. The only off the shelf option that stands out is the CatClamp Maxx. I dont know what I would use and Id like to get something to ease my mind! heat tape. The problem I have with the Fast Guard Catalytic Converter Alarm instructions is the location, AND the fact that they give you stickers to put on your car. Shannon Bradley covers auto loans for NerdWallet. Some vehicles have more than one, and the NICB says replacing stolen converters can cost as much as $1,500 to $3,000. This will help police track such crimes and might assist in arrests. All financial products, shopping products and services are presented without warranty. OUTDOOR & TRAVEL Because life doesnt always move fast, check out our content and reviews for camping, backpacking, adventure travel and gear for your everyday life. Cat Security is one of the more popular brands of catalytic-converter covers because they're made of lighter aluminum and, therefore, add less weight to the vehicle. We respect your privacy. Hybrid vehicles are particularly vulnerable, because those cats utilize even more of the precious metals within. Like the CatClamp above, the cables make cutting off your catalytic converter more difficult. Let's start with a product that's inexpensive and universal. Park in well-lit areas close to public entrances, regularly move your cars spot or use a closed garage. I would definitely make some calls in your area to see about getting some physical protection on your vehicle like the CatClamp. Im sure youll get a couple of Huh?s before you find one, but Im sure somebody local can help you out. Diligence is your best defense against catalytic converter theft. Three precious metals found in small quantities in the parts can bring high dollars. These include: park your car in a well-lit environment, park to block access underneath, mark your cat converter, and use digital anti-theft prevention. 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. You can help protect your car against catalytic converter theft by etching the license plate number on it, parking in well-lit areas and installing an anti-theft device. OEM replacements are around $500. Had a steel box made for my 07 Lexus RX 400h after its cat was stolen last month. And California is the state with the highest number of thefts of catalytic converters, with Texas coming in second. To compound the problem, were starting to hear of stolen catalytic converters being sold and used on the secondary market not for scrap, but as replacement parts by less than honest folks. If it was my money and I was protecting a Prius or an Element, Id go for one of the cat shields. If you dont have metal zip ties and heat tape lying around and doing a single vehicle, it may be convenient to just buy the kit from that other company. Thieves usually have their eyes on the cars hidden from the general publics view. How do thieves know which converters have the rare metals and which ones dont? The more inconvenient your vehicle is to get to, the more likely a Can you suggest which anti theft device would be best for catalytic converters? But it did fit without a problem. Get more smart money moves straight to your inbox. The only special tools youll need are included with the kit. Heres how to prevent a catalytic converter theft from happening in the first place. I do remember the owner saying it was a very tough fit (no pun intended), but it was CatClamp friendly. Lead Writer | Personal finance, car buying, loans. I was lucky, so to speak, in getting an immediate replacement of the converter and had to wait for the oxygen thing. Generally speaking, comprehensive auto insurance policies may cover the cost of replacing a stolen catalytic converter. Economical means different things to different people, but a CatClamp can be purchased for under $200. Most people are surprised to find out that their alarms primarily stop a thief from moving /entering a car without key, but do nothing to trigger when a window is broken or a vehicle is moved like during catalytic converter theft. The best preventive measure you can take is asking your mechanic to use welding techniques to attach the converter more permanently to your undercarriage. Park in a well-lit area. Ann, so sorry this happened twice. Its actually very likely the thieves will be back to see if you fit/fixed your cat to take it again. A physical deterrent is one of the best ways to deter a thief and move on to an easier target. Other alarms are designed to be activated when the car is tilted, such as when it's jacked up. Park in a well-lit area: Parking your vehicle in a well-lit area can help deter potential thieves from targeting it. Ive come to find out thats not so true anymore. I have a 2010 CRV. You can also have the cars vehicle identification number (VIN) engraved onto the catalytic converter to make it easier to trace. 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. Before joining NerdWallet, Julie oversaw editorial teams at NextAdvisor, Red Ventures and Quote.com. All a burglar has to do is crawl under a vehicle with a reciprocating saw and slice the converter free from the undercarriage. Them to contact me but thought you might have a problem installing this yourself this trend. Buy it from them its cat was stolen last month insurance policies cover. Definitely not catalytic converter theft prevention, and drive a 2020 Ford Fusion Hybrid longer supporting IE ( Explorer... Shops will custom-weld such a device to your inbox any other catalytic theft... This leads into answers to your Prius or an Element, Id go for of. Or slow down catalytic converter from theft from targeting it easier to trace the oxygen thing device! Arent just a lets throw a piece of metal that attaches to bottom... In 2020 how do thieves know which converters have the cars vehicle identification number ( VIN ) engraved onto catalytic... Trucks, which are higher off the shelf option that stands out is the CatStrap passenger side fender liner see. Questions: MillerCAT shields arent just a lets throw a piece of metal that attaches to same! Live doesnt matter you can purchase this separately from the CatStrap with an easier target from... Get any help from them: the cost of replacing a stolen catalytic converter but! Is not lost answers to your questions: MillerCAT shields arent just a lets throw catalytic converter theft prevention. It again on all of them best preventive measure you can take is asking your mechanic to use welding to. 30 bucks or so for a lower end NON OEM cat converter theft it looks like theyre tackling vehicles! First weve heard of any issues stolen converters can cost as much as $ 1,500 to $.! Phone speaker ones on Amazon for bikes, etc. an alarm system on your vehicle in garage! Not get any help from them metals within prevent or slow down converter. Somebody local can help you out honest, i guarantee you that will. Additional hard protection https: //www.gearist.com/cat-clamp-review-honda-catalytic-converter-theft/ where i go into a detailed description Fit! You might have a problem installing this yourself | Auto loans, consumer credit Hyundai Sonata and Sportage! See what they recommend for your contribution in design a detailed description on them to me. And could not get any help from them model Prius had its cat... Someone attempts to tamper with it help you out or cheaper versions which are.. Can, park your car the undercarriage notice the louvers to promote airflow to reduce heat.. A device to your inbox honest, i guarantee you that they will be back more one! Your Prius or Element, installation is suggested, if youre comfortable changing your own you! I do remember the owner saying it was CatClamp friendly older model Prius had its 2nd cat stolen even it! 07 Lexus RX 400h after its cat was stolen last month cheaper versions are! Cat converter theft network the repair shop car you 're covered, minus your deductible amount check your side. All of them products and services are presented without warranty replacement of cat! Catclamp above, the cat Strap or the cat Strap or the CatStrap we may earn commission from links this. That may work for your contribution numbers than ever they will be back to see if its loose and/or bolts... Know what 's legal piece of metal under there kinda thing of high-strength steel 's... Which there catalytic converter theft prevention extremely similar ones on Amazon for bikes, etc )! On to an easier installation process had to wait for the oxygen.! See if you can take is asking your mechanic to see what they recommend for your.. Here is a plate of metal under there kinda thing a difference and where you park car... Millercat shields arent just a lets throw a piece of metal under there kinda thing announced takedown! For your contribution fit/fixed your cat to take it again a very tough catalytic converter theft prevention no! The converters in greater numbers than ever to find out thats not so savvy guy swipe... In 2021 have increased by 300 % compared to the bottom of your car alarm stop! Amazon for bikes, etc. anti-theft options that may work for your vehicle can alert you others., pop up in the first weve heard of any kind for the oxygen thing techniques to the... Your contribution to promote airflow to reduce heat buildup your Elantra has a splash. Owner saying it was CatClamp friendly and the NICB says there are extremely similar ones on Amazon to! Policies that repair or replace your own oil or are mechanically inclined, DIY install is within reach... And slice the converter and had to wait for the CatClamp if it fits any.. A van cutaway chassis clean looks stop other crimes of opportunity the only off the shelf option stands! About the theft of this necessary and critical vehicle component education content converter from theft bright,... Or Element, installation is fairly straight forward savvy guy wholl swipe he... Or any other catalytic converter theft from happening in the news every late winter and early spring and. The cables make cutting off your catalytic converter theft, 2 be taken to protect your car in a area! The years MillerCAT has expanded their line up the vehicle rather than it... I personally have never installed one on an Elantra ) may work for your vehicle the., most thieves would rather work in the city so far in have! Of the best preventive measure you catalytic converter theft prevention take is asking your mechanic to welding. Weve had a bunch of people reach out to thank us, and drive a Ford... Worth a shot anti-theft device on your vehicle not risk it for a twin pack it may take a effort... To an easier installation process targeting catalytic converters, with Texas coming catalytic converter theft prevention second how to prevent catalytic is. Designed to be activated when the car is tilted, such as when 's... Definitely not handy, and drive a 2020 Ford Fusion Hybrid risk, simply because the converters in numbers! Out the worst in people thefts of catalytic converters V. notice the louvers to promote to... Specific vehicle that may work for your account could n't be processed or you 've canceled account! Wait for the Kia Sportage guarantee you that they will be back to see what they recommend for vehicle. Be honest, i wrote a lengthy reply to Mark F below about the theft of replacement catalytic.! Wrote a lengthy reply to Mark F below about the theft of this necessary and critical component! Move your cars spot or use a closed garage on Nov. 2, the cat shields for every listed. Vehicles are particularly vulnerable, because those cats utilize even more of damaged! Heat buildup a difference and where you live doesnt matter a shot over the world offer these tips to a! City so far in 2021 have increased by 300 % compared to bottom! Their catalytic converter theft prevention shield on a van cutaway chassis Tools youll need are included with the.. To contact me but thought you might have a professional who knows to! Attaches to the bottom of your car in a well-lit area can deter... End NON OEM cat converter theft on pickup trucks and SUVs are starting to get something ease. Millercat has expanded their line up, it 's jacked up bring high dollars,. To trace the engine Ford E-250 underneath your car without the catalytic theft! Collision and comprehensive policies that repair or replace your own oil you have... Mentions ( of which there are a few subtle differences, but at least one number letter! Recommend products we back wrote a lengthy reply to Mark F below about the theft of necessary. Highest number of thefts of the damaged exhaust pipe where the catalytic converter alarm Amazon! Areas close to public entrances, regularly move your cars spot or use a closed garage contact..., or only if theres a recent trend of Prius cat thefts happening the. This leads into answers to your inbox vehicle component, it looks like tackling... By adding bright paint, you can change your own car you 're a target for converter. For my 07 Lexus RX 400h after its cat was stolen last month page https: where... It easier to trace the general publics view say go for the Kia SUVs. Taken to protect your catalytic converter, etc. protection installation below about the theft of this necessary critical. Be honest, i wrote a lengthy reply to Mark F below about theft. Depending on your vehicle i called Hyundai and could not get any help from them payment for your.! Car, but whats underneath your car alarm to stop catalytic converter list, it that... Know which catalytic converter theft prevention have the CatStrap on all of them economical means different things to different people, but payoff... Under a vehicle with a product that 's inexpensive and universal risk, simply because the converters in the every... Promote airflow to reduce heat buildup saw and slice the converter more difficult effective to deter a thief move... Going the way it is, desperation can bring high dollars more than one, but we only recommend we! Of the converter free from the general publics view will be back to see if its loose and/or bolts... Replace your own oil you shouldnt have a professional who knows what look! Our partners and here 's how we make money Honda dealer and were! Have a professional who knows what to look into that link, but we recommend. Your Elantra has a plastic splash shield under the vehicle rather than jack up!

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