Nationwide, there was good news in the United States, as insurance companies and law enforcement saw big declines in the number of catalytic converter thefts during 2023. However, the number of catalytic converter replacements fell at a slower rate. Catalytic converter protection is still important because it’s still a challenge to find replacement converters. It can sometimes take months to get one installed.
As a car owner looking for a way to protect your catalytic converter, CatClamp has become the go-to option, because installation is fast and easy.
Top 10 Cars Targeted in the Western US
Every vehicle except very old cars or vehicles without an exhaust system, such as electric vehicles, have a catalytic converter. Experts say that thieves make between $25 and $300 for a standard converter, but ones from hybrid vehicles like the Prius can sell for up to $1,400.
According to CarFax, the top 10 cars targeted in the Western United States has many of the same vehicles as the national list, but the Prius is the most-targeted vehicle. That’s because the hybrid is incredibly popular in areas such as San Diego, with high gas prices and strict emissions laws.
- TOYOTA PRIUS
- HONDA ACCORD
- TOYOTA TACOMA
- SUBARU FORESTER
- HONDA CR-V
- FORD F-150
- FORD EXPLORER
- SUBARU OUTBACK
- TOYOTA CAMRY
- KIA SOUL
If you own a Prius or any of the cars on this list, we suggest using protection like the CatClamp.
If your catalytic converter is stolen, you will know! Your first clue is that your vehicle will be LOUD. Other symptoms are smelly or dark exhaust, sluggish acceleration, check engine light turns on and/or damage under your vehicle.
What Should You Do If Your Catalytic Converter Is Stolen?
CarFax suggests the following steps if you become the victim of catalytic converter theft:
- Contact the police. The sooner they know about the theft, the better the odds – albeit slim – that they can find the thieves.
- Check your insurance policy to see if the theft is covered. If your vehicle only carries liability insurance, it’s likely not a covered event.
- Get your catalytic converter replaced immediately. It’s unwise to drive your vehicle without one.
Pacific Automotive for Catalytic Converter Protection
Pacific Automotive is a registered installer of CatClamp Converter Locks. They are easy to install – placed around the entire catalytic converter and secured with two locking clamps – and once installed it’s virtually impossible to remove without the proper key.
We’ve seen first hand how our customers benefit and are proud to offer the CatClamp to our customers, after investigating all other options on how to keep your vehicle safe from would-be thieves.
If you are looking for catalytic converter protection, feel free to contact us, or stop by the shop, which is conveniently located near the 5 and 52 freeways in San Diego.