Catalytic Converter Theft: How to Shield Your Car

Catalytic converter theft is on the rise across the UK, with criminals targeting vehicles for the valuable metals found inside this essential exhaust component. In 2023, England and Wales had a combined total of 3,325 catalytic converter thefts reported, amounting to about one theft for every 4,579 vehicles .

This type of theft is when thieves can remove a catalytic converter in just minutes, often leaving costly damage behind. Understanding why these parts are targeted, and how to protect yours, is key to keeping your car safe and secure. Learn everything you need to know with our guide to catalytic converter theft prevention.

What is Catalytic Converter Theft?

This type of theft involves stealing the emissions-reducing device from a vehicle’s exhaust system. The process is quick, often taking just minutes, and can leave your vehicle damaged and undrivable. In many cases, victims only realise the theft has occurred when their engine suddenly becomes louder or fails to run properly.

Why Are Catalytic Converters Valuable to Thieves?

Catalytic converters are valuable because they contain precious metals like platinum, palladium, and rhodium; some of the most expensive metals in the world. These materials are used to reduce harmful emissions, and their high market prices make converters a quick and profitable target. Thieves can sell the stolen parts to scrap metal dealers or illegal buyers for hundreds of pounds each.

Which Cars are Most at Risk of Converter Theft?

Vehicles that sit higher off the ground, such as SUVs, 4x4s, and vans, are more vulnerable because thieves can access the underside more easily. In the UK, popular targets include the Toyota Prius, Honda Jazz, Toyota Auris, and Lexus RX, as their catalytic converters contain higher levels of precious metals or are more accessible. Hybrid vehicles are more at risk because their converters tend to be in better condition, making them more valuable on the black market.

Signs Your Catalytic Converter May Have Been Stolen

One of the most common signs is a sudden, loud roaring or rumbling noise when you start your car, caused by the absence of the muffling converter. You might also notice reduced engine performance, sluggish acceleration, or increased fuel consumption. Visually, you may see hanging or cut exhaust pipes underneath your vehicle, or find that your car won’t start at all if other components were damaged during the theft.

How To Prevent Catalytic Converter Theft

Protecting your vehicle starts with smart parking. Whenever possible, park in a locked garage or a well-lit, busy area with CCTV coverage. Install some of the best anti-theft devices like catalytic converter locks, cages, or shields, which make it harder for thieves to access and remove the part. You can also etch your vehicle identification number (VIN) onto the converter and register it, making it traceable and less appealing to criminals.

Park in Secure or Well-Lit Areas

Parking in a secure garage or a well-lit, highly visible location is one of the simplest yet most effective deterrents against catalytic converter theft. Potential thieves tend to avoid areas where they can be easily seen or caught on surveillance cameras. If a garage isn’t available, try to park near building entrances or in busy areas with regular foot traffic.

Tip: One way to ensure peace of mind when leaving your vehicle unattended is to install a Ghost Immobiliser, which operates by using a secure PIN code or paired smartphone via the Ghost Bluetooth app.

Install Catalytic Converter Anti-Theft Cages or Locks

Fitting an anti-theft cage or lock around your catalytic converter adds a physical barrier that makes it much harder and more time-consuming for thieves to remove. These devices are designed to fit snugly around the converter and can be installed either by a professional or as a DIY project. By increasing the effort required, they significantly reduce the likelihood of your vehicle becoming a target.

Catalytic Converter Anti-Theft Cages

An anti-theft or catalytic converter cage is a metal frame that surrounds your catalytic converter, protecting it from being quickly cut out. These cages are typically made from heavy-duty steel and are welded or bolted securely under your vehicle. They come in adjustable or custom-fit to specific makes and models, particularly for vehicles frequently targeted like SUVs and hybrids.

Catalytic Converter Locks

A catalytic converter lock is a specialised clamp or device that fastens tightly around the converter, preventing it from being removed without the proper tools. These locks are often made from hardened materials resistant to cutting or tampering. You can expect to find compact and discreet lock options, either as a metal bracket or a strap system.

Use Forensic Marking to Identify Stolen Parts

Forensic marking involves applying a unique, traceable solution or etching to your catalytic converter that links it to your vehicle. These marks are often invisible to the naked eye but can be detected by police using UV light, making it easier to trace stolen parts back to their rightful owners. Many kits are approved by law enforcement and insurers, and visible deterrent stickers are often included to warn potential thieves.

Tip: Supplement your security measures by installing a Car Alarm such as the StarLine S9 Series, an alarm, immobiliser, and diagnostic reporting system that keeps a close eye on any potential suspicious activity.

Adjust Car Height to Limit Access (If Possible)

Raising or lowering your vehicle can influence how accessible the catalytic converter is to thieves. Lowering the car can make it harder for someone to crawl underneath, especially when parked on level ground. This method is more feasible for vehicles with adjustable suspensions or for owners willing to invest in professional modifications.

Keep in mind that if your car model happens to be raised, as with many SUVs, 4x4s, and vans, it becomes easier and more vulnerable for thieves to access the catalytic converter. The increased ground clearance provides more space for someone to quickly slide underneath and remove the part. This is why high-clearance vehicles are among the most targeted for catalytic converter theft.

What to Do if Your Catalytic Converter is Stolen

If you discover your catalytic converter has been stolen, the first step is to report the theft to the police and obtain a crime reference number. Next, contact your insurance provider to confirm if your policy covers this type of damage and arrange for repairs or replacement. Avoid driving the vehicle if possible, as it may be loud, polluting, and unsafe without the converter in place.

Tip: We recommend installing vehicle tracking, a helpful tool that can assist authorities in assessing theft with beneficial, superior security features.

Insurance, Replacement Cost, and Legal Steps

Catalytic converter theft can be financially burdensome, with replacement costs typically ranging from £300 to over £1,000, depending on your vehicle’s make and model.

Prices to anticipate for catalytic converters:

• Common Styles: Small, Compact Cars & Hatchbacks = price range £150 – £250
• Family Cars & Executive Models = price range £300 – £400
• Sports & Deluxe Cars = from £500 – upwards

While comprehensive car insurance often covers catalytic converter theft, you’ll still be liable for any applicable excess and potential premium increases. After filing a police report and informing your insurer, it’s crucial to use a reputable garage for repairs. Be sure you keep records of all communications and expenses in case further legal steps or claims are needed.

Legal Steps for Reporting a Catalytic Converter Theft

If you discover your catalytic converter has been stolen, it’s important to act quickly to protect your legal rights, help with recovery, and ensure proper insurance processing.

Here’s what to do:

1. Report to Police: Call 101 and file a police report immediately to receive a crime reference number.
2. Contact Your Insurance Provider: Notify your insurer, provide the crime number, and check if you’re covered for repairs.

   3. Get a Professional Vehicle Inspection: Have a mechanic assess the damage and provide a repair quote for your claim.

3. Avoid Driving Until Fixed: Your car may not be road-legal or pass a Ministry of Transport test (MOT) without the converter.

   5. Explore Local Support or Compensation: Check if local schemes offer help with anti-theft devices or financial aid.

FAQs

Why are thieves stealing catalytic converters?

Catalytic converters are typically targeted by thieves due to their valuable metals and because these units can be dismounted in under a minute. This type of theft often occurs in car parks, but can happen wherever thieves have easy access. These parts can then be sold via metal reclaim scrapyards, online, or exported to another country.

Is catalytic converter theft still a problem in the UK?

Yes, in 2025, catalytic converter theft is posing a major concern for hybrid car owners. Common models being targeted include the Toyota Auris, Lexus CT, as well as non-hybrid raised car makes like SUVs, 4x4s, and vans. Being proactive by staying vigilant with your parking position, marking vehicle parts, and installing alarm systems, as well as cages, helps defend you against catalytic converter theft.

Do guards work?

Yes, catalytic converter guards can be highly effective at deterring theft. These protective devices, usually metal cages, plates, or clamps, make it significantly harder and more time-consuming for thieves to access and remove the converter. While no solution is foolproof, a professionally installed guard adds a strong layer of security and often discourages opportunistic criminals looking for a quick target.

What if mine is stolen?

If your catalytic converter is stolen, report it to the police immediately and obtain a crime reference number. Then, contact your insurance provider to file a claim; many comprehensive policies cover catalytic converter theft. Avoid driving the car until a mechanic assesses the damage, as missing converters can not only make the vehicle loud but also unsafe and illegal to drive.

How valuable is a catalytic converter?

Catalytic converters can be worth anywhere from £100 to over £600 on the scrap market according to reports in early 2024, which depends on the vehicle model and the amount of precious metals they contain, like platinum, palladium, and rhodium. These metals are highly sought after, which is why catalytic converters are a common target for thieves.