The Toyota Tundra is one of the most targeted cars for catalytic converter theft. It has a high ground clearance that makes it easy for thieves to slide under the truck and steal the catalytic converter.
The Toyota Tundra comes with two or four catalytic converters depending on its generation. Older models typically have two, while newer trucks are equipped with three or four.
Cost
The cost of replacing your converter depends on where you get the replacement done and what type you choose. But generally speaking, a new converter will run anywhere from $4000 to $7000.
There are ways to minimize the price you pay for your replacement by doing a bit of research on the Internet. For instance, you may be able to find a middleman who will buy your cat converters for $250 or less.
Alternatively, you can sell your old cats to companies that recycle them. These recycling companies will buy the converters from you and give you a good amount of money for them.
In fact, you can even use your old converters as skid plates on your Tundra or Sequoia! They look cool, and they protect your converters from theft.
Toyota Tundra – Symptoms
A catalytic converter is an important part of the emission system that removes toxic pollutants from your vehicle’s exhaust. It helps to keep your car safe from air pollution and improves fuel economy.
If you notice a reduction in engine performance or sputtering, stalling, or excessive fuel consumption, this could indicate that your converter is failing. A clogged converter also produces black smoke that can be dangerous to breathe.
You can check for a clogged catalytic converter with an infrared thermometer. Measure the temperature at the inlet and outlet of the converter.
If the temperature difference is greater than 10 degrees Celsius, it means that your catalytic converter is clogged. This is a common cause of catalytic converter problems.
Time to Replace
A catalytic converter is essential to your car’s performance by converting harmful gases in the exhaust system into safe compounds. This ensures your vehicle runs smoothly, reduces pollution and avoids emissions violations. Cost of Replacing a Catalytic Converter in a 2004 Toyota Tundra.
A converter can develop problems over time and needs to be replaced as soon as possible. When the converter fails, you’ll notice issues like engine misfires and loss of power during acceleration.
Fortunately, there’s an easy way to tell whether your converter is bad or not. Use a rubber mallet to give the converter a firm hit and listen for any sort of rattling.
If you do hear a rattle, it means that the metal catalyst within is starting to crumble and needs to be replaced. A replacement catalytic converter will also help your vehicle pass smog testing.
Do-It-Yourself
The catalytic converter is a small part of your vehicle that can cost hundreds of dollars to replace. However, comprehensive auto insurance will help cover the costs if your deductible is low enough to offset it.
Several devices have been developed to prevent Toyota Tundra catalytic converter theft, including steel shields that fit over the converter and locking cable or cages welded to the car’s frame. While these don’t make the converter impossible to steal, they do increase the amount of time and effort a thief will have to spend on it.
Some owners have found it helpful to paint their catalytic converter with a bright color and etch the VIN (vehicle identification number) onto it. This makes it easier to identify and may discourage thieves. Engraving the VIN also lets police know it’s your vehicle and alerts scrap metal dealers that you want it back.