NICB: Catalytic Converter Thefts Surge Nationwide

It's time for a check-in regarding the skyrocketing rise in catalytic converter thefts seen across the nation in recent years.  

NICB Theft Data

New data from the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) finds that in total, based on insurance claims data, the nation experienced more than 64,000 catalytic converter thefts in 2022.  The states with the highest number of thefts are California and Texas, which experienced more than 32,000 catalytic converter thefts last year. 

“This new data is just a snapshot of an underreported crime that affects communities across the nation,” said David J. Glawe, President and CEO of NICB.  “While a catalytic converter can be removed in just a few minutes, for vehicle owners, the cost is much more than the replacement parts. Victims must find alternate transportation, schedule necessary repairs, and may face loss of work as a result."

Based on insurance claims, thefts of catalytic converters increased significantly from 2020 through 2022. NICB researchers say insurance claims for these thefts increased from 16,660 claims in 2020 to 64,701 in 2022. Catalytic converter theft claims had an upward trend trajectory throughout 2020 and 2021 and theft claims in 2022 were significantly higher than in previous years.

NICB Catalytic Converter Theft Data

“This new data is just a snapshot of an underreported crime that affects communities across the nation,” said David J. Glawe, President and CEO of NICB.  “While a catalytic converter can be removed in just a few minutes, for vehicle owners, the cost is much more than the replacement parts. Victims must find alternate transportation, schedule necessary repairs, and may face loss of work as a result."

Catalytic converters are a vital part of a vehicle's exhaust system and contain platinum, rhodium, and palladium, rare earth metals that are more valuable than gold.  The NICB says metal recyclers often pay between $50 to $250 for a catalytic converter and up to $800 for one removed from a hybrid vehicle.

Efforts To Combat Thefts

Lawmakers both at the state and federal levels are trying to combat the rise in thefts with new laws. Just this week, a law creating tougher penalties for catalytic converter theft was signed by the Texas Governor. The law is named after a fallen Sheriff's Deputy killed in 2022 while trying to stop three suspects from stealing his truck's catalytic converter.

The NICB says new bills and amendments are being introduced to increase requirements of catalytic converters sellers, impose due diligence obligations on metal recycling entities, and establish penalties for unauthorized sellers and buyers engaging in fraudulent practices related to catalytic converter purchases.

In 2022, NICB's Office of Strategy, Policy, and Government Affairs tracked 163 legislative bills across 37 states, with 31 bills enacted.  So far in 2023, 94 bills are being tracked across 39 states, with 12 bills already enacted.

The National Automobile Dealers Association is also pushing for legislative action.

Allstate Converter Replacement Data

As you might imagine, replacing a converter isn't cheap. The NICB says it can cost a between $1,000 and $3,500 or more to replace a stolen catalytic converter depending on the vehicle.

Allstate says catalytic converter replacement surged 1,155%  among its customers between 2019-22.   (The National Insurance Crime Bureau cites a nationwide increase of 1,215% between 2019 and 2022.)

Allstate also says in several  states, it saw replacements soar well beyond the national rate during this time.  In the Pacific Northwest, Oregon and Washington had increases over 7,000%. On the East Coast, Pennsylvania, Connecticut and New York rounded out the top five states with increases between 4,500% and 7,000%.

Allstate: Top 12 States by Increase in Catalytic Converter Replacements 2019-2022  

Allstate's data is based on Allstate customers which is why you'll see a difference in rankings from the NICB results.  

“Catalytic converter thefts exploded during the pandemic,” says Craig Edmonds, Allstate’s vice president of Auto Physical Damage Claims. “Supply chain disruptions raised the value of these parts. And because they’re relatively easy to steal, theft rings have pounced, creating a multimillion-dollar black market enterprise. Fortunately, there are ways to protect yourself from becoming a victim.”

Check Your Insurance Coverage

It's as good idea to check your insurance coverage to make sure your covered should your vehicle's catalytic converted be stolen.  Allstate says comprehensive auto insurance coverage can pay to repair or replace a covered vehicle damaged by vandalism, theft or attempted theft.   

“Having the right insurance policy can be beneficial to both your wallet and peace of mind,” Edmonds says. “Without comprehensive coverage, you could end up paying thousands of dollars in parts and repairs if your catalytic converter is stolen.”

Tips To Prevent Converter Theft

Here are some things you can do to help prevent converter theft:

You'll want to park in well-lit areas, close to buildings, or in a garage monitored by cameras.  A locked garage is even better.

You can also get an anti-theft device like an alarm system or a catalytic converter anti-theft device, which the NICB says can make removing a converter extremely difficult and time-consuming.  This would be something like placing a steel plate or cabled covering directly to the converter. 

Another option is to get your Vehicle Identification Numbers (VIN) etched on catalytic converters, for easier tracking if it's stolen.  Allstate also suggests painting the converter a bright can't-miss bright color.

If your catalytic converter is stolen, call law enforcement and your insurer immediately.

Photo Credit:  U.S. Department of Homeland Security Press Release.