Catalytic converter theft: the car most likely to be targeted

The Toyota Prius—especially older second-generation models from 2004 to 2009—is the car most likely to have its catalytic converter stolen in the United States. Hybrids like the Prius carry converters with higher precious‑metal content, and the car’s underbody design makes the part relatively quick to remove. Trucks and SUVs with high ground clearance (notably Ford F‑Series and Toyota Tacoma/Tundra) also rank among the most frequently hit, though per‑vehicle risk is generally highest for the Prius.

Why thieves target certain vehicles

Catalytic converter theft is driven by a mix of part value, ease of access, and market supply. The following factors explain why some models are consistently at higher risk than others.

• Precious metals payload: Hybrids often have cleaner-running engines, so their catalytic converters tend to contain more rhodium, palladium, and platinum—making them more lucrative to resell.
• Ground clearance and access: Taller vehicles (pickups and SUVs) let thieves slide underneath and cut the converter in minutes with portable saws.
• Sheer numbers on the road: High-volume models create a large pool of targets and steady demand for used replacement parts.
• Design and mounting: Bolt-on or exposed converter locations, and long, straight exhaust runs, reduce the time and noise needed to remove the unit.
• Resale channels: In places where scrapyard verification is lax, converters are easier to offload, increasing theft incentives.

Together, these factors concentrate theft on models whose converters fetch the highest payouts and can be removed quickly with minimal risk.

The most-targeted models in recent U.S. reports (2023–2025)

Insurance claim data, police reports, and salvage-industry analyses from the past few years consistently place specific models at the top of theft lists. While rankings can vary by region and year, these vehicles are repeatedly identified as high-risk.

• Toyota Prius (especially 2004–2009; also 2010–2015): Frequently cited as the single most targeted model due to high precious‑metal content and accessible exhaust layout.
• Ford F‑Series pickups (F‑250, F‑150): Extremely common, high ground clearance, and easy underbody access drive high theft counts.
• Toyota Tacoma and Toyota Tundra: Popular trucks with ample clearance; converters are easy to reach and in demand.
• Honda CR‑V and Honda Element: Taller ride height and straightforward exhaust routing make them frequent targets.
• Lexus RX (especially hybrid variants): Hybrid converters command higher scrap values; SUVs add easier access.
• Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra: High sales volume and clearance keep them on many regional hot lists.
• Ford Econoline/Transit vans: Fleet vehicles often park outdoors overnight and have accessible, valuable converters.
• Jeep Patriot/Compass and other compact SUVs: Clearance and simple exhaust layouts make theft quick.

Patterns differ by city and state, but across datasets the Prius consistently tops the risk list on a per-vehicle basis, while popular pickups often lead in total theft counts due to their sheer numbers.

Regional and timing nuances

Converter theft surged across the U.S. during 2020–2022, driven by record rhodium and palladium prices. Many areas saw declines in 2023–2024 as metal prices fell and states tightened scrap-yard rules, mandated ID for sellers, and increased penalties. Still, hotspots persist—especially in parts of the West Coast, Midwest, and Northeast—and hybrid-heavy urban fleets keep Prius thefts prominent.

How to reduce your risk

No measure is foolproof, but layering several deterrents can significantly lower the odds and potential losses if you own a high‑risk vehicle.

• Install a catalytic converter shield or cage: Model-specific steel plates or cages complicate cuts and increase theft time and noise.
• Etch/ID the converter: Engrave the VIN and add high‑temperature paint; some regions offer free etching programs that deter resale.
• Upgrade hardware and weld points: Tamper‑resistant bolts and strategic welds can slow removal.
• Park strategically: Use garages when possible; outdoors, choose well‑lit, busy areas or park with the exhaust side close to a wall or curb.
• Alarms and sensors: Tilt/inclination or vibration‑triggered alarms, plus cameras or dashcams with parking mode, increase detection risk.
• Insurance check-up: Ensure comprehensive coverage is active and review deductibles relative to replacement cost.

Combining physical barriers, better parking practices, and clear identification provides the best balance of deterrence and recovery options.

What to do if your catalytic converter is stolen

If you discover loud exhaust noise at startup, a dangling pipe, or a check‑engine light after parking, act quickly to document and report the theft.

1. Document the scene: Take photos of the undercarriage, cut points, and surroundings; note time and location.
2. File a police report: You’ll likely need the report number for insurance and repairs.
3. Contact your insurer: Comprehensive coverage typically applies; ask about OEM vs. aftermarket parts and rental coverage.
4. Get repair estimates: Reputable shops can replace the converter, O2 sensors, and damaged piping; verify emissions compliance for your state.
5. Add prevention during repair: Install a shield and etch the new converter before leaving the shop.

Swift reporting and coordinated repair can minimize out‑of‑pocket costs and reduce downtime, while adding deterrents helps prevent repeat incidents.

Summary

The Toyota Prius—particularly 2004–2009 models—is the most likely car to have its catalytic converter stolen in the U.S., with popular pickups and SUVs (Ford F‑Series, Toyota Tacoma/Tundra) also frequently hit. Risk is driven by precious‑metal values, ground clearance, and ease of access. Theft rates have moderated from their peak but remain a concern; layering physical shields, identification, strategic parking, and appropriate insurance coverage is the most effective defense.

Which car has the most catalytic converters stolen?

Cars with catalytic converters most likely to be stolen include popular models like the Ford F-Series, Toyota Prius, Honda Accord, Toyota Tacoma, and Honda CR-V. These vehicles are targeted because they contain valuable precious metals (like rhodium, palladium, and platinum) and, in the case of SUVs and trucks, have a high ground clearance that makes access to the converter easier for thieves. 
Why these cars are targeted:

• High-Value Precious Metals: Catalytic converters contain expensive metals like platinum, palladium, and rhodium, which are in high demand and can be easily sold. 
• Ease of Access: Some vehicles, particularly SUVs and trucks, have higher ground clearance, making it easier for thieves to crawl underneath and quickly remove the converter. 
• High Prevalence: Some of the most targeted vehicles, like the Ford F-Series, are extremely common on the road, increasing the overall number of potential targets. 

Examples of targeted models: 

• Ford: Ford F-Series trucks, Ford Econoline, Ford Explorer
• Honda: Honda Accord, Honda CR-V
• Toyota: Toyota Prius, Toyota Tacoma, Toyota Camry
• Chevrolet: Chevrolet Equinox, Chevrolet Silverado

Which cars are difficult to steal catalytic converters?

Cars with a low profile, such as sports cars and sedans, are less likely to have their catalytic converters stolen because it’s harder for thieves to access them. Additionally, electric vehicles and older, pre-1974 vehicles are immune from theft as they lack catalytic converters entirely. Some newer hybrid and gasoline models are also less targeted due to their converters being integrated into the engine or exhaust system, which makes them difficult to remove. 
Factors that make a vehicle less likely to be targeted:

• High ground clearance: Trucks and SUVs are often targeted because their height allows easy access to the catalytic converter from underneath. Conversely, low-profile cars make it more difficult to get underneath for a quick theft. 
• Integrated converters: Some manufacturers design their converters to be part of the engine or exhaust system, making them difficult to cut off and remove quickly. 
• No catalytic converter:
  • Electric vehicles: do not have a catalytic converter at all. 
  • Pre-1974 vehicles: do not have them due to emissions regulations that were introduced in 1974. 
• Diesel converters: Diesel vehicles often do not attract thieves because their converters contain fewer precious metals compared to gasoline models. 

Examples of less targeted vehicles:

• Lower-slung cars and sports cars: Any vehicle that is hard to get under would fit this category. 
• Electric cars: Such as the first-gen Nissan Leaf. 
• Older vehicles (pre-1974): These cars predate the introduction of catalytic converters. 
• Diesel vehicles: Many diesel models are less attractive to thieves. 
• Some modern models: Such as the fully electric Ford Focus, Honda Fit, or newer models of the Toyota Tacoma, where the converter has been relocated. 

What cars have the highest paying catalytic converters?

Vehicles with the most valuable catalytic converters include hybrid vehicles, such as the Toyota Prius, due to their higher concentrations of precious metals, and luxury or performance cars like Ferrari models, which have expensive components from the manufacturer. Large SUVs and trucks, such as the Ford F-Series and Chevrolet Silverado, also tend to have valuable converters because of their larger size and thus higher content of these metals. 
Why Certain Cars Have More Valuable Converters

• Precious Metal Content: Catalytic converters’ value comes from the precious metals inside them, primarily platinum, palladium, and rhodium. 
• Hybrid Technology: Hybrids, like the Toyota Prius, are designed to run cleaner, which means their converters must contain higher concentrations of these metals to meet strict emission standards, making them more valuable. 
• Vehicle Type and Engine Size: Larger engines, found in many full-size trucks and SUVs, naturally have larger catalytic converters, which contain more precious metals and are therefore more valuable. 
• Manufacturer Specifications: Some premium and luxury manufacturers, such as Ferrari and Lamborghini, use high-quality, more expensive converters to meet their vehicle’s performance and emission needs, increasing their value. 

Examples of Valuable Catalytic Converters 

• Hybrids: Toyota Prius
• Luxury & Performance: Ferrari F430, Ferrari, Lamborghini, Mustang
• Trucks & SUVs: Ford F-Series, Chevrolet Silverado, Ford Explorer, Audi Q7, BMW X5

How to avoid a catalytic converter being stolen?

To prevent catalytic converter theft, install an anti-theft device like a CatStrap or a steel cage, park in well-lit areas, use motion-sensor lighting and security cameras, engrave your VIN on the converter, and consider comprehensive car insurance. 
Install Physical Protection

• Anti-theft devices: . Opens in new tabInstall a protective shield, cage, or strap designed to make the converter harder to access and remove, which can deter thieves looking for quick targets. 
• Engrave your VIN: . Opens in new tabEtch your vehicle identification number onto the catalytic converter to make it harder for thieves to sell and easier for law enforcement to identify if stolen. 

Improve Your Parking Habits

• Park in secure locations: Use a locked garage or a well-lit, secure parking lot when possible. 
• Use lighting and cameras: Install motion-sensor lights and security cameras in your parking area to deter thieves and provide evidence if theft occurs. 
• Choose a visible spot: If parking in a driveway or on the street, choose a well-lit area with plenty of pedestrian traffic. 

Increase Deterrence 

• Paint your converter: . Opens in new tabApply a high-temperature, bright paint to the converter to deter scrap dealers and thieves. 
• Use a vehicle alarm: . Opens in new tabEquip your car with a vibration-sensitive alarm that will trigger if tampering is detected. 

Other Considerations

• Know your vehicle’s risk: Hybrid vehicles and trucks are often targeted due to the high value of their converters, so take extra precautions for these models. 
• Get comprehensive insurance: Add comprehensive coverage to your auto policy to cover the cost of replacing the catalytic converter if it’s stolen. 
• Report suspicious activity: If you see suspicious activity or notice signs of attempted theft, call 911.