Look, catalytic converter theft isn’t some minor nuisance anymore — it’s a full-blown epidemic affecting thousands of drivers every year. If you haven’t had one stolen yet, consider yourself lucky. But with the price of rhodium reaching crazy heights, roughly $10,000 per ounce, these lowlifes aren’t slowing down. They’re snatching converters with battery-powered reciprocating saws faster than you can say “repair bill.”. Exactly.
So, what’s the takeaway here? You need to get serious about your insurance coverage. And to do that, you have to know the right questions to ask your agent. This isn’t about just hoping your car alarm goes off and scares thieves away — no, that’s rookie stuff. You need to understand OEM parts coverage, rental car options during repair, and how comprehensive your policy truly is.
Catalytic Converter Theft in 2025: The Real Numbers You Should Know
According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB), catalytic converter thefts have skyrocketed in recent years and show no signs of easing up in 2025. They reported an increase in theft claims by nearly 30% over the DIY cat protection past year alone. Think about it for a second: Every stolen converter isn’t just a small replacement — it’s a hit on your wallet and the hassle of being without your vehicle.
Year Reported Theft Claims (Thousands) Percentage Increase 2023 40 +25% 2024 50 +20% 2025 (Projected) 65 +30% (estimate)Why Do Thieves Go After Catalytic Converters?
Ever wonder why converters are the hot target? It’s all about the precious metals inside: platinum, palladium, and especially rhodium. If rhodium alone can fetch around $10,000 per ounce, you’re talking serious cash for these scrappers. They don’t need a full day or heavy machinery—just a quick cut with a battery-powered reciprocating saw, and they’re out the door in minutes.
Vehicles Most at Risk for Converter Theft
Not every vehicle is created equal when it comes to getting ripped off by these lowlifes. Last month, I was working with a client who made a mistake that cost them thousands.. The NICB and automotive experts agree that the following are top targets:
- Toyota Prius and other hybrids: These have converters packed with more precious metals to reduce emissions, making them a goldmine for scrappers. Older trucks and SUVs: High ground clearance makes the catalytic converter easier to access. Popular pickup trucks like Ford F-Series and Chevy Silverado: Large vehicles with exposed converters are sitting ducks.
So, if you own one of these, don't just rely on wishful thinking.
The Common Mistake: Relying Only on Car Alarms
Here’s a hard truth: Car alarms don’t stop catalytic converter thieves. I’ve seen it too many times. Those battery-powered saws hum for less than a minute, and these scrappers couldn’t care less if an alarm goes off. They’re in and out before anyone shows up. So if your plan is "my alarm will save me," you’re setting yourself up for a costly headache.
Physical Protection Works — But It’s Not Bulletproof
That’s where aftermarket protection like CatClamp and cages from companies such as MillerCAT come in. These metal shields and cages bolt onto your vehicle's undercarriage to make it harder (though not impossible) to snip the converter out.
These solutions act like a grade 8 bolt on a suspension mount — they’re tough, designed to resist shear and torque attempts. Installing these shields can delay thieves, making your vehicle less attractive or buying you enough time for someone to notice suspicious activity.
But nothing’s 100%. Determined scrappers with proper tools will find a way — though harder protection reduces your odds of being targeted. Combined with careful parking (preferably in well-lit areas or garages), physical protection is your best bet.
What To Ask Your Insurance Agent
Now, when you finally pick up the phone to talk to your insurance agent, you need to come prepared. Here are the key questions you should have on your checklist:
Does my policy include OEM parts coverage for catalytic converter replacement?After a theft, some insurers want to install cheaper aftermarket parts to save money. You want your OEM parts, just like your mechanic would insist in the garage. OEM parts ensure your vehicle runs right, lasts longer, and holds value. Is a rental car included during repair if my converter is stolen?
Waiting weeks for a repair can be a massive inconvenience. Some comprehensive policies cover the cost of a rental vehicle while your car is in the shop — others don’t. Make sure you know what your agent will provide. How does my policy handle comprehensive coverage related to converter theft?
Converter theft usually falls under comprehensive coverage, but policies vary with deductibles and limits. Understanding what your “comprehensive” really covers can save you surprises when filing a claim. Are there discounts or endorsements offered if I install physical anti-theft devices like CatClamp or cages from MillerCAT?
Knowing the ins-and-outs ahead of time helps you avoid delays. Find out what documentation they need (police reports, mechanic estimates, photos) and how quickly claims are typically processed.
Final Thoughts
This isn’t just about making your insurance agent happy — this is about protecting your wallet and your daily ride. Converter theft is rampant in 2025, thanks to precious metals worth thousands of dollars. It affects certain cars more, especially hybrids like the Prius. Forget relying solely on alarms — these scrappers work fast and don’t care about noise.
Physical protection like shields and cages really help, but talk to your insurer about OEM parts coverage and rental car options, too. Being proactive can save you thousands of dollars and weeks of frustration.
So, the bottom line? Be thorough. Ask these questions. Know your policy. And don’t let these crooks get the best of you.