Toyota Tundras are a prime target for catalytic converter thieves. Made of precious metals such as platinum, rhodium and palladium, these catalysts transform harmful gases into less damaging ones like carbon dioxide and water.
Fortunately, there are ways to protect your Toyota against theft of its catalytic converters. These include catalytic converter cages, shields and locks.
Catalytic converters are made of precious metals
Catalytic converters are used to reduce harmful gas emissions from a vehicle’s exhaust system. Constructed out of rhodium, platinum and palladium, these catalysts have proven highly efficient at eliminating nitrogen oxides and carbon monoxide.
Rhodium is the most essential of the three precious metals used in catalytic converters, as it reduces nitrogen oxide and also oxidizes hydrocarbons and carbon monoxide. As such, nearly all vehicles sold in America since 1975 have included catalytic converters.
Precious metals are expensive to extract and in high demand. They’re used in the production of many products, making them a valuable commodity.
Therefore, thieves around the world frequently target catalytic converters. They are especially vulnerable to theft since they can be removed from a vehicle in minutes with minimal effort and transported for resale purposes. Toyota Tundra Catalytic Converter Theft
Tundras have a high suspension
Tundras are renowned for being tough, off-road machines. But with some suspension upgrades, Toyota’s half-ton has become even more capable than before.
The 2022 Toyota Tundra boasts a fully boxed frame that’s 10% lighter and 20% stiffer than its predecessor, giving it greater capability in rough terrain conditions.
This new truck offers six distinct suspension systems, an enormous leap up from the previous Tundra’s four options.
These include a load-leveling rear air suspension that raises the back of the vehicle by up to 2.5-inches, making it easier to access with cargo or large trailers. Furthermore, Tundra Platinum and 1794 Edition models come with adaptive shocks that adjust damping force as quickly as every 20 milliseconds; similar technology found on Ram 1500 and Ford F-150 Raptor models.
Tundras are easy to steal
Toyota Tundras are among the top targets for catalytic converter theft. These pickups boast four catalytic converters and sit higher off the ground than other vehicles, making them easier to access with a cordless saw.
Converter bandits find these units particularly lucrative, earning anywhere from $80 to $320 per stolen unit.
Thankfully, there are several ways to prevent your catalytic converter from being stolen. One solution is having the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) etched or painted on the converter; that way, if it ends up on the black market, you can trace it back to you.
Another way to safeguard your catalytic converter is by purchasing a physical anti-theft shield. These devices make the converters harder for intruders, similar to how locks make your vehicle less secure. They typically cost between $700 and $1,500 to install on your truck and provide added protection.
Tundras are popular with thieves
The Toyota Tundra is a prime target for catalytic converter thieves due to its four catalytic converters, making it easier for intruders to make off with valuable parts.
According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau, catalytic converter thefts have seen a dramatic increase due to an uptick in precious metal prices such as platinum, rhodium and palladium. These metals serve as catalysts in catalytic converters which transform harmful gases into less hazardous ones.
Fortunately, there are steps you can take to protect your catalytic converter from theft. First and foremost, install a guard that is compatible with your vehicle. This will provide an extra layer of security against intruders.