How many catalytic converters have been stolen in California?
San Jose police released figures indicating that reported catalytic converter thefts in the city rose from 84 in 2019 to 784 in 2020, and then to 1,087 through the end of October 2021, a 1,200% increase in less than two years, the newspaper reported.
Is catalytic converter theft a felony in California?
Stealing a catalytic converter is a crime under California law, which categorizes this offense as either petty theft or grand theft based on whether or not more than $950 worth of goods were stolen. As a felony though, those convicted of grand theft can face up to three years in state prison.
Which cars are most likely to have catalytic converter stolen in California?
The common consensus seems to be that the Prius, Tacoma, Lexus SUVs, and the Accord are some of the most targeted cars for catalytic converter theft. So if you own one of these, make sure your car is locked up safe and sound.
Why are so many catalytic converters being stolen in California?
Why catalytic converter thefts are on the rise In order to accomplish the goal of fewer emissions, there’s an extremely large amount of those precious metals compacted inside. “Rhodium, platinum and palladium are the main three that are in catalytic converters,” McCue said.
How much do thieves get from stolen catalytic converters?
For thieves, this spells out a promising opportunity. Equipped with an electric saw, a skilled thief can steal your converter in less than 30 seconds. At scrapyards, used catalytic converters go for between $25 and $1k+ depending on make and model.
Does insurance cover stolen catalytic converters?
If you have comprehensive coverage on your auto insurance policy, then you’re typically covered against catalytic converter theft. Comprehensive coverage will typically pay to replace the stolen catalytic converter and repair any related damage from its removal.
Why are people stealing catalytic converters?
There are a couple of reasons why people steal catalytic converters. For one, it contains valuable metals. As we’ve mentioned, a catalytic converter uses metals such as rhodium, platinum and palladium to neutralize toxic gases, and those metals are rare and valuable. Rhodium, for example, sells for thousands of dollars per ounce.
What to do if your catalytic converter is stolen?
What To Do When Your Catalytic Converter Is Stolen Step 1: Contact the Authorities. If you find your catalytic converter is missing, you should immediately contact the authorities. They will check local security cameras and work to see if they can help catch the person who stole your converter. Additionally, a police report may be essential to
What can police do to prevent catalytic converter theft?
St. Paul police say paint markings like these under vehicles may help deter thieves targeting catalytic converters and the precious metals they contain. St. Paul police are taking a new approach to fighting catalytic converter thefts: They’re offering to paint the devices underneath cars and SUVs to deter thieves.
Why are catalytic converter prices so high?
Your catalytic converter is expensive because it needs rhodium to reduce smog levels. Rhodium, at its current value, is extremely expensive which makes using it in a catalytic converter expensive. To make up for their cost, manufacturers have to increase the price of the catalytic converter.