The only special tools youll need are included with the kit. Like the CatClamp above, the cables make cutting off your catalytic converter more difficult. I have one question for you. If your car was insured, youll likely pay little out of pocket to get a new catalytic converter, depending on your deductible. California is considered a hot spot for catalytic converter thefts, and Sandmans shop replaces 15 to 20 stolen catalytic converters each day. Powered by consumers. She spent the next 30-plus years as a writer and content manager in the financial services industry, creating educational content that covered a wide range of personal and business financial topics. Park in well-lit areas: The best way to prevent catalytic converter theft is to explore the solutions below and see what will work for you. Im going to tell you what no one wants to hear about protecting your catalytic converter from theft. Here are some tips to help protect your vehicle from catalytic converter theft: 1. Assuming a thief can access the underside of a vehicle, converters are easy to remove with battery-operated power tools, or in some cases, even simple hand tools. Hybrid vehicles are particularly vulnerable, because those cats utilize even more of the precious metals within. 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. Pre-qualified offers are not binding. If you start your car and hear a low, loud rumble, one of the first things you should check is whether your catalytic converter has been stolen. As with any type of theft, its easier to get away with under the cover of night. How do I know? However, if you drive a late-model Toyota Tacoma 4x4 with a 3.5L engine you're in luck because MillerCat has designed a cat shield just for you. By clearly marking your catalytic converter you will be deterring the theft from happening in the first place. Here is a list of our partners. Ive come to find out thats not so true anymore. Usually if its a model I dont have hands on experience with I can make a few calls and see whats been working, but coming up empty for the 2002 Jetta! The only real way to prevent your catalytic converter from getting stolen is not to have one! 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. Im only familiar with the Gas Elantra, but if the Hyundai Elantra Hybrid Blue catalytic converter setup is similar, youve got two catalytic converters: the primary one is up in the engine compartment at the manifold and a secondary one under your car inline with the exhaust system. 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. Good luck, the Catstrap is working for me since June 2021. Planning on using zip ties and heavy duty velcro to mount them somewhere else, away from an easy access point. Your username maybe be your email address. Comprehensive insurance covers events like theft and weather damage, but many people who have older, less valuable cars dont carry it because the premium isnt worth the potential payout if something goes awry. Hello, 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. The CatClamp is auniversal fit, and people have been able to use them on anything from Honda Civics, Toyota Tacomas, Ford Excursions, Honda CRV and fleet vehicles like Ford F150s and Chevy Express vans. the reviewers mentioned a few concerns and I have a few too. This means how you park you car matters. Easily compare personalized rates to see how much switching car insurance could save you. Just wondering why car manufacturers do not automatically install protection, even if was an optional thing I would be worth it especially on a Hybrid. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. If youre talking about one of the shields, youre only going to have access to the back half of the exhaust. Check out the reply to Jeffery about his E350 Bus, which is most likely a cutaway. Theres a company which I wont even mention that is taking what looks like the same alarm, throwing in a couple 2-cent metal zip ties and a small piece of heat tape then charging twice as much as youd pay for these alarms on Amazon. If you have a personal garage, keep your car parked inside with the door shut. The converters contain precious 2. 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. NerdWallet Compare, Inc. NMLS ID# 1617539, NMLS Consumer Access|Licenses and Disclosures, California: California Finance Lender loans arranged pursuant to Department of Financial Protection and Innovation Finance Lenders License #60DBO-74812, Property and Casualty insurance services offered through NerdWallet Insurance Services, Inc. (CA resident license no. Hey there Mark. This information may be different than what you see when you visit a financial institution, service provider or specific products site. For every device listed here, ive seen both the pros and cons of each. Catalytic converters use high heat to do their job, and Miller has also done thorough testing on their products to insure that your catalytic converter doesnt damage itself due to extra heat buildup. Park indoors if possible. It may help you make your own decision about buying a catshield. But back to your SavanahId suggest the Cat Clamp MAXX. By 2021, there were 18,026 thefts, a 1400% increase since 2019! Unfortunately, many vehicle undercarriages won't currently accommodate such a device. It may take a little effort, but itll payoff more than painting your catalytic converter, etc. We dont recognize that sign in. Heres how to prevent a catalytic converter theft from happening in the first place. Because it filters exhaust and emissions, it doesnt really impact your vehicles actual driving capabilities. The catalytic converter is an exhaust system part thats necessary for your car to pass safety and emissions inspections in many states. Isnt it possible that a thief could cut the exhaust pipe on BOTH ends of the anti-theft device, defeating its purpose? Know if you're a target for catalytic converter theft. I personally have never installed a CatClamp (or any other Catalytic Converter device) on that specific vehicle. 7.3,gas engine. I think the MillerCat discount code is case-sensitive. Ill try all 3. You're going to want to read thisespecially if you drive a Toyota Prius. cut. This stuff is much cheaper than than the cost of a catalytic converter. If youre handy with those kinds of things, go for it. SWIM, BIKE, RUN Focused on you, the athlete we bring you informative articles and gear reviews about cycling, running, trail running, triathlons and other endurance sports. Also at risk are street-parked vehicles and trucks parked overnight in unattended lots. Contact the police. So, whats the best form of catalytic converter protection? Required fields are marked *. Reset your password. 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. For around 30 bucks or so for a twin pack it may be worth a shot. The internet is filled with such devices to protect the catalytic converter, which is part of the exhaust system that runs along the bottom of your car. This device is a little different than the others. MillerCat has expanded their line up to include Toyota Tacomas, Tundras and Sequioas. 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. The standard CatClamp is meant to be a universal fit, which really means the CatClamp may or may not fit. Depending on the type of vehicle you own, there are several anti-theft devices on the market. I have a 2010 CRV. Id like to see a shield with a pepper spray bomb that goes off when the shield is taken down, Need advice on how to economically protect a 2002/3 VW Jetta Wagon catalytic converter. I do remember the owner saying it was a very tough fit (no pun intended), but it was CatClamp friendly. Officials said they would seek $545 million in forfeitures of cash, luxury cars and real estate from those arrested in the operation. It's "universal" because it hangs loosely via metal hose clamps to the exhaust under the car, so, theoretically, it should fit nearly any car or truck. Heres a MillerCAT Cat Shield on a Prius V. Notice the louvers to promote airflow to reduce heat buildup. Jon Langston is an avid motorcyclist and gear collector whose work has appeared in Mens Journal, Cycle World, The Drive, Rider, Iron & Air, Motorcyclist, and more. . Id say Cat Clamp! So, what is the best catalytic converter anti theft device? Im firmly in the camp of you get what you pay for. Park Close to Curbs. Regulating who can buy and sell catalytic converters and then requiring buyers to keep detailed transaction records. The thieves dont care. 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. Thats because they use rare metals like palladium and platinum to filter your emissions and reduce vehicle pollution. And its happening everywhere- every type of neighborhood to every type of vehicle. Influence-free. December 2022 UPDATE: MillerCat heard about us and has offered us a discount code to pass along to our readers. All financial products, shopping products and services are presented without warranty. AFFILIATE DISCLOSUREGearist may receive payments through various affiliate programs like Amazon which means that if you click and buy we earn with with no extra cost to you. Plus, catalytic converters dont carry any sort of identification number, so its pretty much impossible to identify them as stolen property. these inexpensive, self-contained motorcycle / bike alarms. They were available on Amazon, but it seems that theyre not available there anymore. The more inconvenient your vehicle is to get to, the more likely a Other ways to protect your car from this vehicle crime are as follows: Park in a garage or secured parking area Install a bright motion sensor light to discourage potential thieves. 4. If you have a carport or parking space at your home, install motion-detector security lights and set a car alarm. Seems to me there are way too many catalytic converter thefts and really, not a real good way to prevent a "SAWZALL/GRINDER cutting wheel " from getting through such things as Stainless Steel Wire Rope - just cut off the bracket/lock. We are no longer supporting IE (Internet Explorer), pop up in the news every late winter and early spring. Learn More. Thanks for your support! 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. You also may want to look into if your Elantra alarm has whats called a tilt sensor and / or additional vibration and shock sensors. In an attempt to steal the catalytic converter, thieves have to slide under the automobile and use cutting tools to detach the box from the pipes around it. Sandman says that catalytic converter thefts are an organized crime effort, and teams of thieves with the tools and knowledge to quickly remove converters sweep through entire neighborhoods. By adding bright paint, you can create a visible deterrent to alert thieves to move on. Park in a well-lit area. Cat Clamp seems very inviting right about now. WebCatalytic converters are expensive to replace. I am waiting on them to contact me but thought you might have a suggestion. 19. Jeffrey, A stolen catalytic converter replacement can cost up to $3,500 for the most-targeted vehicles. 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. 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. Unfortunately, a camera wont do much for stopping theft, but it may help the police after the fact. Looking at replacement costs for a 2002 VW Jetta catalytic converter was a real eye openerespecially in the CARB states like California! Your email address will not be published. There is only 1 way you can stop it from happening and that is not to have 1. Sobering! However, with the e350 you have the advantage of having an actual frame instead of unibody construction like most passenger cars and SUVs. If your car is parked in a crowded place, most thieves wont run the risk of spending the extra time to defeat one of these devices and move on to an easier target. 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? Trucks and SUVs are often targeted because its easy to slide under the vehicle rather than jack it up. Park in a well-lit area: Parking your vehicle in a well-lit area can help deter potential thieves from targeting it. Talk with a trusted mechanic to see what they recommend for your vehicle. They do recommend adding on some additional generic clamps as additional hard protection. The final price tag for a catalytic converter replacement depends on the vehicle make and model, as well as the area of the country. The best you can do it make it as difficult as possible to steal your catalytic converter so theyll move on to some one elses! What to do if your catalytic converter is stolen. I called Hyundai and could not get any help from them. This makes it traceable, and in theory at least, a reputable scrap metal dealer might decline to buy it. Right now in my neighborhood the Honda CRVs are being targeted. When you start your car, youll know by the loud exhaust noise if your catalytic converter was stolen. We can, however, make it a lot harder. What kind of Cat lock do you recommend for a 2022 Wrangler Sahara 4xe? This week my catalytic converter has been almost stolen twice. 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. This is exactly why its important to do everything you can outlined in the article, especially a physical deterrent, to reduce your chances of catalytic converter theft. Install an anti-theft device. If you can, park your car in a well-lit area. 3. Sorry to hear about your van. Out of the box it requires no special tools. 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. In October, California and New York were two states to pass such laws that tend to fall into three categories. What a wonderful world we live in hey? They do provide a sticker that a thief probably wont see when under your car in the dark, but every little bit helps. Read more. A California bill that would have required car dealers to etch converters with a vehicles unique vehicle identification number (VIN) did not pass. Catalytic converters are generally easy to access; it takes an average of three minutes for a thief to slide under a car or (especially) a truck and simply cut it out with a hacksaw or Sawzall. 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. I have a 2012 Subaru Outback which Ive maintained well and is excellent condition. That number rose over 400% to 6021 in 2020. You can read my catclamp review here. Here is a list of our partners and here's how we make money. Check out the selection of cat shields and covers below, as well as a couple of other suggestions: a device designed to "lock" your catalytic converter in place and a motion-sensitive alarm to sense when the cat itself it being messed with. Im looking for some kind of theft deterrent. If you dont want to spring for an expensive catalytic converter alarm install, weve seen an increase in people buying a couple of these inexpensive, self-contained motorcycle / bike alarms, and sticking them under the hood or under the car near the exhaust. Why are thieves targeting catalytic converters? Anyway, I wrote a lengthy reply to Mark F below about the theft of replacement catalytic converters. Some sources recommend using a high-temperature fluorescent orange paint, such as those sprayed on barbecue grills, on your catalytic converter and then inscribing your vehicle identification number in the painted surface. For only $300 we will install a catalytic converter shield that prevents theft of this necessary and critical vehicle component. If you find discrepancies with your credit score or information from your credit report, please contact TransUnion directly. Thanks for any help. Unsurprisingly, those rare metals are worth quite a bit of money. State Farm, the largest insurer of automobiles in the U.S., says its number of claims for stolen catalytic converters hit 43,219 nationally for the period of July 2021 to June 2022, representing a 109% increase compared with the previous 12 months. She spent more than 30 years in banking as a writer of financial education content. Much like the rest of life, catalytic converter thieves come in all levels of skill and preparation. You can buy the Miller Cat Shield directly from the manufacturer, and the CCM CatSecurity on Amazon. This never influences our opinions or review content, and your support helps keep this site running. Anti-theft solutions can be pricey, but they often cost less than a new catalytic converter. 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. Ann, so sorry this happened twice. Hi! Check your passenger side fender liner and see if its loose and/or missing bolts. Not so much. What Should You Do If Your Catalytic Converter Is Stolen? Each has its own merits. Just remember that a catalytic converter isnt worth the physical harm- be safe! OEM replacements are around $500. 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