Are Honda Accords Targeted for Catalytic Converter Theft?

Yes. Honda Accords are among the most frequently targeted vehicles for catalytic converter theft in the United States, regularly appearing on national “most-stolen catalytic converter” lists alongside models like the Toyota Prius, Toyota Tacoma/Tundra, and Ford F-Series. While theft rates have eased from their 2021–2022 peak, incidents remain elevated, and Accords—especially older model years—continue to be a common target in many states.

What the Data Shows

Analyses by insurance industry groups and vehicle-history researchers have repeatedly placed the Honda Accord in the top tier of vehicles hit by catalytic converter thieves. The reasons are both practical and statistical: Accords have been among the best-selling cars in the U.S. for decades, their catalytic converters contain valuable precious metals, and the underbody layout makes the part relatively quick to access with basic tools. Hotspots tend to be large metropolitan areas and states with historically high activity, including California, Texas, Washington, Minnesota, and New York.

Why Accords Attract Thieves

The following points explain the primary factors that make Honda Accords appealing to catalytic converter thieves:

• Large population on the road: The sheer number of Accords in circulation increases opportunity and resale demand for stolen parts.
• Access and speed: Thieves can typically jack up one side and make two quick cuts to remove the unit in a couple of minutes.
• Metal value: Even though rhodium and palladium prices have fallen from pandemic-era highs, converters still contain valuable metals worth fencing.
• Aftermarket demand: Converters for popular models are easier to offload into illicit scrap channels.
• Perceived lower risk: Sedans sit lower than trucks but still get hit—especially when parked overnight on streets or in poorly lit areas.

Combined, these factors make the Accord a consistent target even as overall theft economics shift with metal prices and enforcement.

Which Years and Where the Risk Is Highest

Older Accord generations (commonly mid-2000s through mid-2010s) are hit more often because they lack factory shields and are widely available on the used market, though newer models are not immune. Hybrids are a special target in some brands due to higher precious-metal loading, but the volume of conventional Accords keeps them on thieves’ radar. Risk increases in urban and suburban zones, commuter park-and-ride lots, apartment complexes, and areas with quick highway access where thieves can strike and leave fast.

The 2023–2025 Trendline

After a dramatic surge in 2021–2022, catalytic converter theft claims have trended down in many regions since late 2023, driven by falling rhodium and palladium prices and tougher state laws that restrict the resale of detached converters and require stricter recordkeeping. Still, theft remains substantially above pre-2020 levels, and Accords continue to feature on “most targeted” lists in 2024–2025. Enforcement pressure varies by state and city, and organized crews adapt quickly, so local conditions can shift.

How Honda Accord Owners Can Reduce Risk

The measures below can significantly lower the odds of theft or reduce potential damage and downtime if a theft attempt occurs:

• Install a catalytic converter shield/cage: Model-specific steel or aluminum plates typically cost $150–$600 plus installation and deter quick cuts.
• Use high-visibility deterrents: Brightly paint or etch the converter with your VIN; pair with warning decals to increase perceived risk for thieves.
• Upgrade alarms: Add tilt/impact sensors or a siren triggered by vibration; parking-lot attempts often end when loud alarms activate.
• Smart parking: Choose garages, well-lit areas, or spots near entrances/cameras; avoid leaving the car straddling open curbs overnight.
• Camera coverage: Home driveway cameras and parking cameras increase deterrence and provide evidence for police and insurers.
• Secure fasteners/welds: Some shops add welded rebar or hardened hardware around the exhaust to increase time and noise during attempts.

No single step guarantees prevention, but layering hardened hardware, visibility, and better parking dramatically reduces your risk profile.

Replacement Costs and Insurance Considerations

For a Honda Accord, replacement costs typically range from about $1,200 to $2,800 for non-hybrid models, including parts, oxygen sensors, and labor. Costs can be higher if wiring or adjacent exhaust components are damaged. In states that require CARB-compliant converters (including California, New York, Colorado, and Maine), parts costs can run higher—often $1,500 to $3,500—due to stricter emissions standards. Comprehensive auto insurance usually covers catalytic converter theft, subject to your deductible; a police report and photos will help your claim. If you’re repairing after a theft, ask the shop to add a shield during the fix to prevent a repeat hit.

How to Tell If Yours Was Stolen—and What to Do Next

Watch for the following signs and take these steps immediately if you suspect theft:

1. Listen for a sudden, extremely loud exhaust note at startup; it often sounds like open headers.
2. Check for dangling O2 sensor wires or freshly cut piping under the car.
3. Avoid prolonged driving: Fumes can enter the cabin; you may also damage remaining exhaust components.
4. Document and report: Take photos, file a police report, and call your insurer to start a comprehensive claim.
5. Get a repair estimate: Ask about OEM vs. approved aftermarket (CARB if required) and include a shield installation in the work order.
6. Notify nearby property managers: Parking lot or garage operators may have camera footage that aids recovery or prosecution.

Acting quickly can speed repairs, improve insurance outcomes, and help authorities track patterns or organized crews operating in your area.

Bottom Line

Honda Accords are indeed targeted for catalytic converter theft and have consistently ranked among the most affected models nationwide. While theft rates have moderated from their peak, the risk remains real—especially for older Accords in urban areas. Practical deterrents, smart parking, and comprehensive insurance remain your best defenses.

Summary

Accords continue to be a top target for catalytic converter theft due to their numbers, ease of access, and the converter’s resale value. Risk has eased since the 2021–2022 peak but remains elevated. Owners can mitigate exposure with shields, alarms, strategic parking, and insurance coverage; in CARB states, expect higher replacement costs and consider adding a shield during any repair.

Which Hondas are targeted for catalytic converter theft?

Honda CR-V
The Hybrid CR-V models are particularly vulnerable because, like other hybrid vehicles, they have a higher concentration of precious metals in their catalytic converters.

How do I protect my Honda Accord from theft?

Tips To Prevent Your Honda From Being Stolen

1. Secure the Vehicle When You Leave. You should never leave the vehicle unsecured.
2. Use a Steering Wheel Lock. A steering wheel lock is a simple but effective deterrent.
3. Etch the Vehicle Identification Number on the Windows.
4. Tint the Windows.
5. Place a GPS Tracker in the Car.

Why are Honda Accord catalytic converters stolen?

Catalytic converters are stolen for two reasons: money and ease of stealing. These thefts are so common because the catalytic converter is mounted beneath the vehicle, making it easily accessible to thieves.

Does the Honda Accord have a catalytic converter?

Yes, all modern Honda Accords are equipped with catalytic converters as they are a standard emissions control device required by law to reduce harmful gases in the exhaust. The number and placement of converters can vary by model year and trim, but every Accord uses them to transform pollutants like carbon monoxide into less harmful substances like water, nitrogen, and carbon dioxide. 
Why Honda Accords have Catalytic Converters 

• Emissions Control: Catalytic converters are essential for reducing vehicle emissions, a requirement for all cars manufactured to meet emissions standards.
• Function: They contain catalysts that convert pollutants from the engine’s exhaust into less harmful gases before they are released into the atmosphere.

Where to Find Them

• The catalytic converter is a component of the exhaust system, located behind the flex pipe and passenger side of the vehicle. 
• Some models may have multiple catalytic converters. 

Common Issues

• Check Engine Light: A common sign of a catalytic converter issue is a lit check engine light. 
• Performance Problems: You may also experience decreased engine performance, poor fuel efficiency, or unusual noises. 
• Theft: Honda Accords are a frequent target for catalytic converter theft, as they contain valuable precious metals.