Catalytic Converter Anti-Theft Device

we can only fight a common enemy together

Why Catalytic Converter Thefts are on the Rise

Today more than ever catalytic converters are being stolen from cars, trucks, and even school busses. This is because catalytic converters contain valuable precious metals, which thieves can easily recycle to make a quick buck. WATCH VIDEO to learn more.

Catalytic converter replacement generally costs between $1,000-$3,000, according to the National Insurance Crime Bureau. Some higher-end catalytic converters can run as much as $7,500 before labor costs. 

Note: Some auto insurance companies will offer a policy discount for the installation of our alarm. Contact us directly if you qualify for a discount and need an alarm certificate sent to your insurance company.

Rhodium Price

per ounce

$13,500.00

Palladium Price

per ounce

$1,894.00

platinum Price

per ounce

$1,018.00

Fast Guard Alarms is at the forefront of catalytic converter anti-theft technology.

We sell two types of catalytic converter alarms:

1. Alarm for low profile vehicles, which require a jack to access the catalytic converter.  WATCH VIDEO

2.  Alarm for High-riding vehicles such as trucks, SUVs, vans, motorhomes, commercial vehicles, and busses.
Our "tripwire" alarm system is an aggressive approach to high-riding vehicles with easy access to the catalytic converter.   WATCH VIDEO

low
ground
clearance

high ground clearance
Tripwire Alarm

FAQ

Catalytic Converter Thefts - Why Criminals Steal Them and What You Can Do To Protect Your Vehicle

Since 1975 and the demand for cleaner air, catalytic converters are manufactured in a way that reduces harmful emissions. Part of this process includes a section in the catalytic converter which houses three expensive precious metals (rhodium, palladium, and platinum). Each of these three precious metals are extremely valuable, but rhodium specifically has fluctuated from $16,000.00 to $25,000.00 per ounce since 2020. Many catalytic converters have about ⅓ of an ounce of rhodium in them. Criminals see a catalytic converter as an easy target to make fast money and with little repercussions. In most US cities, a catalytic converter theft is considered a misdemeanor.

Top vehicles targeted by catalytic converter thieves:

The Toyota Prius is by far the most targeted vehicle. This is because it's a hybrid and the majority of the time it's running on battery power (as opposed to the engine). The less an engine is used, the more precious metals remain inside the catalytic converter, which makes it more valuable. Other vehicles on the list are the following: Toyota Tundra, Toyota Tacoma, Honda Accord, Honda CRV, Mitsubishi Outlander, Ford F-250, Ford F-350, Nissan NV vans, and certain models of school busses. Many others are on the list, but keep in mind some vehicles are targeted simply because they are higher off the ground which makes stealing the catalytic converter faster and easier.

The cost associated with having to replace a stolen catalytic converter:

Speaking with owners of muffler shops, we were surprised to hear how expensive it can be to replace a stolen catalytic converter. Depending on the make, model, and with some vehicles having two catalytic converters, the cost of parts and labor can range from $1,500.00 to over $9,000.00. On top of the financial burden, there's the frustration of being without your vehicle. Sometimes a replacement can take several weeks or months depending on parts availability.

What can I do right now to protect my vehicle’s catalytic converter?

Today more than ever before, catalytic converter thieves are becoming extremely bold. They are targeting vehicles in shopping center parking lots in broad daylight and sometimes even threatening physical harm to passers-by. The most immediate action you can take is to get a catalytic converter anti-theft device. There are several types to choose from depending on your budget and vehicle type. You can purchase a shielding device or cage which are put in place to block the thief from easily accessing your catalytic converter. These devices can be a bit pricey depending on installation fees. There are also catalytic converter alarms that are designed to scare away the thief before they can do any harm to your vehicle. These alarms range from $29.99 at CatalyticConverterAlarm.com to $179.99 at CatStrap.net. Additional catalytic converter protection tips: 1. Avoid parking in dark and remote places. Many thieves target vehicles that are parked on poorly lit streets. 2. Have the last 8 digits of your VIN engraved on your catalytic converter. If your catalytic converter is ever stolen and recovered, the police can easily trace it back to the owner. 2. Spraypaint your catalytic converter with high-temperature bright automotive paint. Honest scrap yards will not accept a catalytic converter that appears stolen. 3. Make sure your auto insurance policy will cover a catalytic converter theft. Also, ask your insurance agent if you would qualify for a discount if a protection/anti-theft device was installed. Some insurance companies do offer discounts.