Fix It Finder

Caught stealing Catalytic converter January 13 2023

GoAsFarAsYouCanSee · 952 views · 0:41

Skill Level

Intermediate

Time Required

Half day

Estimated Cost

$50–200

Equipment

Toyota RAV4 2019-2023

Permit Required

No

Tools Needed

Socket set, Wrench set, Jack, Jack stands, Drill, Bolts and fasteners
Gone in less than 90 seconds: Catalytic converter theft caught on camera Cars Most Likely to Have Their Catalytic Converters Stolen Nationwide 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 Cars Most Likely to Have Their Catalytic Converters Stolen in the West 2001-21 Toyota Prius 1985-2021 Ford F-Series 1989-2020 Honda Accord 1990-2022 Ford Econoline 1999-2021 Chevrolet Silverado 2007-20 Subaru Outback 2007-17 Jeep Patriot 2003-11 Honda Element 1998-2020 Subaru Forester 1995-2021 Toyota Tacoma Cars Most Likely to Have Their Catalytic Converters Stolen in the Northeast 1985-2021 Ford F-Series 1987-2019 Toyota Camry 1989-2020 Honda Accord 2007-17 Jeep Patriot 1997-2020 Honda CR-V 1998-2020 Subaru Forester 2007-20 Subaru Outback 1990-2022 Ford Econoline 1999-2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1993-2020 Nissan Altima Cars Most Likely to Have Their Catalytic Converters Stolen in the South 1985-2021 Ford F-Series 1989-2020 Honda Accord 2007-17 Jeep Patriot 1999-2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1990-2022 Ford Econoline 2007-21 Jeep Compass 1993-2020 Nissan Altima 2008-14 Dodge Avenger 2011-17 Chrysler 200 2011-19 Chevrolet Cruze Cars Most Likely to Have Their Catalytic Converters Stolen in the Midwest 1985-2021 Ford F-Series 2007-17 Jeep Patriot 2011-17 Chrysler 200 2005-21 Chevrolet Equinox 2008-14 Dodge Avenger 1990-2022 Ford Econoline 1997-2020 Honda CR-V 1999-2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1987-2019 Toyota Camry 1989-2020 Honda Accord Catalytic Converter: How It Works Why Are Catalytic Converters Stolen? Thieves hope to make a big payday by melting down the precious metals found in the anti-pollution devices – namely, platinum, palladium, and rhodium. Platinum, for example, was recently trading at $900 per ounce, and palladium was at about $2,200 an ounce. Rhodium – fasten your seatbelts for this one – was going for nearly $13,000. Yes, $13,000 per troy ounce. In comparison, gold was a mere $1,700 per ounce. Prices fluctuate greatly and frequently, so those numbers are subject to change. These metals are so expensive because there is high demand and limited supply globally, which is why gold is being explored as an alternative for the future. Thieves can make anywhere from $25 to $300 for a standard catalytic converter, McDonold said. Ones from hybrid vehicles can sell for up to $1,400. Why Are Hybrid Vehicles Targeted for Catalytic Converter Theft? Why hybrids? It’s because more precious metals are needed for a hybrid’s catalytic converter. Hybrid engines do not run as often, so their exhaust does not get as hot. How Much Platinum Is in a Catalytic Converter? How much of these precious metals reside in a specific catalytic converter varies, but many current models have only 6 or fewer grams of all three combined (there are 28.35 grams in an ounce). Depending on how much of each metal there is, their value could be as little as $200 or more than $1,000, so there is some real value hidden inside catalytic converters. It’s important to note that none of this activity reflects on the original automakers. Catalytic converters have been federally required as an emissions-control device since 1975 for most non-commercial vehicles. As these lists demonstrate, thieves target a wide variety of models, regardless of the size of the vehicle, its age, or the automaker’s home country. How Can You Prevent Catalytic Converter Theft? Some protections are common sense – the same steps you would take to prevent car theft. According to McDonold with the Maryland Vehicle Theft Prevention Council: Park in a well-lit area, especially when it comes to fleet vehicles, which many businesses own. Park in your garage instead of in the driveway or on the street. Always be aware of the area around where your vehicle is parked. The NICB also has suggestions: Install a catalytic converter anti-theft device. If you have to park in a driveway, consider installing motion sensor security lights. “While lights may not provide complete security, they may make some thieves think twice,” the NICB says. Have a muffler shop etch your vehicle’s VIN on the converter and spray it with highly visible, high-heat paint. Doing so enables law enforcement to track the converters, which in turn could lead police to the thieves. Follow me on Creatorland: https://www.creatorland.com/goasfarasyoucansee Discover Inspire Connect Collab Follow me on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/goasfarasyoucansee/ Follow me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Travoriumlifestyle Get free resorts stay every year http://www.travorium.com/VIPTraveling at #Travorium : and Save 40~70% on traveling Follow me life on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/goasfaras_youcansee/ Travel with me all over on my Travel Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travoriumlifestyle