Truck catalytic converters is an essential element of your vehicle’s exhaust system. It filters and reduces harmful emissions such as nitrogen oxide, hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide from the exhaust stream.
Thieves are targeting these parts because they contain valuable metals like rhodium, platinum and palladium that can be sold for a considerable amount at scrap yards and other metal dealers.
Precious Metals
Catalytic converters are cylindrical pieces of metal that convert harmful gases from exhaust into less hazardous ones. They contain precious metals like platinum, palladium and rhodium for extra durability.
These three platinum-group metals, also referred to as PGMs, are rare and highly valued. They find use in a range of products such as jewelry, electrical contacts and electrodes.
Stealing platinum group metals (PGMs), which are used extensively in catalytic converters, is an increasingly lucrative business for thieves.
Catalytic converters are devices installed in vehicles’ exhaust systems to filter pollutants from gas emissions. They consist of a honeycomb-shaped ceramic structure coated in platinum, palladium and rhodium for corrosion resistance.
These three precious metals are expensive and rare, making them targets for thieves. Rhodium in particular appeals to these criminals since a few grams can fetch you thousands of dollars in value.
Theft Risks
Truck catalytic converters are particularly attractive to thieves due to their assortment of valuable metals. Plus, they’re relatively straightforward to access since they hang lower than other parts of a vehicle’s engine.
All vehicles manufactured after 1974 contain a catalytic converter that transforms toxic emissions into less hazardous gases. Thieves can make quick money by stealing these vehicles for their three precious metals: platinum, palladium and rhodium.
Recently, thefts of catalytic converters have seen an uptick due to their rising value. Thieves can now sell a converter at a scrap yard for anywhere from $20 to $240.
The National Insurance Crime Bureau reports that trucks, SUVs and hybrid cars are the top targets for theft of catalytic converters. Toyota Prius models and other low-emission hybrids in particular are attractive due to their converters containing more precious metals than standard gasoline-powered models do.
Security Measures
Catalytic converters are an expensive component in any vehicle that emits gas. As they contain precious metals, thieves often target them for sale to scrap dealers for just a few hundred dollars.
Fortunately, car owners have several methods to reduce theft risk. One such solution is spray painting the converter a bright color.
Another option is installing a device that makes it difficult to take out the converter. Depending on the brand, these may look like cages around the converter or panels with more intricate cut lines.
Some of these devices will also shield the converter from other damage, making it harder for thieves to access. Other locks secure cats to a frame or engine compartment which are more durable but take more time to remove; however, the additional protection they provide is worth the wait.
Repair Costs
Catalytic converters are essential elements of your exhaust system. They contain precious metals which act as catalysts for chemical reactions that reduce emissions.
Catalytic converters should last the life of your vehicle, but they may become damaged from misfires or excessive running conditions that cause unburned fuel to coat the catalyst. When this occurs, the converter won’t function correctly and won’t let harmful gases out through exhaust.
Once a catalytic converter stops working, it needs replacing. Unfortunately, the cost of replacement may be prohibitively expensive.
The cost to replace your converter depends on a number of factors. Initially, the type of converter you select will determine its cost; there are two primary varieties: universal and direct-fit.