Catalytic Converter Theft Statistics

Although catalytic converter theft is on the rise nationwide, a recent National Insurance Crime Bureau (NCIB) report reveals California has the dubious honor of leading the country in most catalytic converter thefts.

Catalytic converters are attractive to thieves as they contain three valuable metals: platinum, rhodium, and palladium.

While this kind of theft is not new, recent spikes in these precious metals' value have triggered a spike in thefts.

According to its claims data, State Farm says California ranks first in the country for auto parts thefts and catalytic converter thefts, accounting for more than 30 percent of all claims filed with State Farm.

In 2021, State Farm paid over £23 million for 9,067 catalytic converter theft claims in California, which is a 150% increase in theft claims vs. 2020.

Stolen catalytic converters can fetch between $50 to $500, while victims can expect to pay anywhere from $1,000 to $4,000 to get their vehicle fixed.

Unless the thief is caught in the act, law enforcement can do little to investigate and bring perpetrators to justice.  

How to Prevent Catalytic Converter Theft

Marking the catalytic converter under the Grays Bill allows for a detached catalytic converter to be traced back to its original vehicle, and legal ownership can be established.

Below are some simple steps on how to prevent your vehicle from being a target:

• Park in well-lit areas

• Always lock the vehicle and set the alarm

• Park inside a garage

• Install motion sensor security lights

• Utilize LotGuard for larger parking lots

• Remain vigilant

LotGuard: Parking Lot Surveillance System

If you own a commercial parking lot, property, or dealership and are concerned about protecting vehicles from catalytic convertor theft, speak to LotGuard today.

LotGuard surveillance units are the ultimate security solution for surface lots and vehicle storage facilities. They detect, deter, mitigate, and report criminal activity 24/7/365.

We can provide LotGuard regardless of your site's power or internet availability; they are fully autonomous surveillance units.