Between January and May of 2021, care thieves stole almost 26,000 catalytic converters, which is about 5200 a month!*
What is a catalytic converter?
A catalytic converter is a car part that serves as an exhaust emission control device. It converts toxic gasses and pollutants in exhaust gas from an internal combustion engine into less-toxic pollutants by catalyzing a redox reaction. The catalytic converter is essential and one of the most critical car parts on vehicles. When a catalytic converter is stolen, the car is out of commission, and it is not recommended to continue to be driven.
Do I have Catalytic Converter Coverage on my insurance?
Thefts occur on personal vehicles as well as business fleets. Some businesses have experienced multiple thefts to their fleets, stopping their business in its tracks. Supply chain delays can cause further delays in repairs. It is crucial to have rental coverage as well in case of a claim to ensure a replacement vehicle is available during the repair process
Why are Catalytic Converters being stolen?
Soaring metals costs are the main reason behind the increase in Catalytic converter thefts across the country. Catalytic converters contain precious metals such as platinum, palladium, and rhodium. The theft is a quick process that can take no more than 5-10 minutes for the thief to steal the converter.
Is it possible to avoid my catalytic converters being stolen?
Our favorite topic… Risk management! To avoid thefts, there are some measures we recommend be taken:
- Park in a garage or a secured parking area
- Install a bright motion sensor light to dissuade potential thieves
- Park fleet vehicles in secured, alarmed, and well-lit yards
- Always lock the car and set an alarm
- Install anti-theft devices
- Have the catalytic converted welded to your car’s frame
- Consider engraving your VIN on the catalytic converter, as it may help alert a scrap dealer it was stolen
- Calibrate your car’s alarm to set off when it detects vibration
Are some cars more targeted than others?
Most would assume that expensive high-end cars are the targets because that makes sense. But when it comes to catalytic converters, the “regular” cars are the most targets. Through a search, we found from way.com that the most targeted vehicles for stolen catalytic converters are Prius, Tacoma, Lexes SUV, and the accord. Or businesses, large trucks, and fleets are targets due to thieves being able to quickly get underneath to remove the catalytic converters and hit multiple trucks in one shot. Why? These vehicles have the “easiest” access to the catalytic converter for thieves to steal and detach.
How can D,G Help?
At Deland, Gibson, we provide a top claims service when something happens. When a claim occurs, we will report the claim to get the repairs started as soon as possible (as long as the insured carries comprehensive coverage on their insurance). We are also here to evaluate that you have the proper and correct coverage in case of a loss. Contact your account manager at D,G to check in to confirm and understand your auto coverages.
More about Deland, Gibson:
Deland, Gibson Insurance Associates, was founded in 1900 and approaches Insurance differently than most agencies. Deland, Gibson thrives on working as a trusted advisor for its client base and focuses on its unique process that emphasizes four risk areas. They work with their clients to assess and analyze the four areas: strategic risk, business risk, hazard risk, and workforce risk. Deland, Gibson is a certified Best Practices, Five Star, and Trusted Choice Independent Agency. The Agency is also considered a Top Insurance Workplace for 2021!
*https://www.way.com/blog/catalytic-converter-thefts-most-targetted-cars-listed/
