CARFAX: UP TO 153,000 CATALYTIC CONVERTERS STOLEN IN 2022

Rhea-AI Summary

Recent CARFAX data reveals that catalytic converter thefts in the U.S. far exceed previous estimates, with approximately 153,000 thefts reported in 2022. This figure was derived from an analysis of millions of service records. Thieves are increasingly targeting vehicles opportunistically, often in well-lit areas, including parking lots and dealerships. The stolen converters contain valuable metals like platinum, palladium, and rhodium, leading to costly replacements for car owners. CARFAX provided a list of the top targeted vehicles, including Ford F-Series and Toyota Prius, and offered prevention tips for consumers.

Positive

• CARFAX's report highlights the significant increase in catalytic converter thefts, which raises awareness and can lead to preventive measures.
• The data provides valuable insights for consumers and law enforcement to address rising theft incidents.

Negative

• The high number of thefts indicates a growing trend in opportunistic crime, impacting consumer trust and vehicle security.
• Replacement costs for stolen catalytic converters can reach thousands, affecting car owners financially, particularly those without adequate insurance.

Previous Reports Drastically Undercounted Incidents

CENTREVILLE, Va., March 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Recent media reports vastly undercounted catalytic converter thefts in the U.S., new CARFAX data shows. Thieves removed the devices from as many as 153,000 vehicles in the U.S. in 2022, far more than earlier estimates. CARFAX data scientists reviewed catalytic converter replacements from millions of service and maintenance records to arrive at this number.

CARFAX data scientists reviewed catalytic converter replacements from millions of service and maintenance records.

Thieves are committing "opportunistic crimes," says Sgt. Matt Casavant with the Maine State Police. "Parking lots – even ones that were well lit – were getting hit. Car dealerships are getting hit on a regular basis, too. The thieves were so brazen that it didn't matter," he said. "My kid drives a Subaru and I won't let her leave her car overnight at the school or other places because it's a high-value target."

Criminals steal catalytic converters because of the precious metals – platinum, palladium, and rhodium – contained inside each device. Thieves can cut them from beneath vehicles in a matter of seconds, leading to a rude awakening for vehicle owners. Once the converter is removed, not only will the car make a loud noise when started, but it can cost owners thousands of dollars to replace that missing catalytic converter – especially if consumers don't have the right type of car insurance.

To help consumers, CARFAX has compiled a nationwide list of the top 2022 targets for these precious-metal thieves:

1. Ford F-Series pickup trucks
2. Honda Accord
3. Toyota Prius
4. Honda CR-V
5. Ford Explorer
6. Ford Econoline vans
7. Chevrolet Equinox
8. Chevrolet Silverado
9. Toyota Tacoma
10. Chevrolet Cruze

Depending on where you're located in the country, certain vehicles are targeted more heavily. We have a breakdown by region here.

Car owners looking to prevent catalytic converter theft should:

• Park in a well-lit area.
• Park in your garage if possible, instead of in the driveway or on the street.
• If you must park in a driveway, consider installing motion sensor security lights.
• Install a catalytic converter anti-theft device.
• Have a muffler shop etch your vehicle's Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on the converter and spray it with a highly visible, high-heat paint. Doing so enables law enforcement to track converters, which in turn could lead police to the thieves.

Gone in 66 seconds: See video of a catalytic converter being removed from a vehicle: https://www.carfax.com/press/video-gallery

Learn more about catalytic converters and why they're stolen:
https://www.carfax.com/blog/catalytic-converters

About CARFAX

CARFAX, part of S&P Global Mobility, helps millions of people every day confidently shop, buy, service and sell used cars with innovative solutions powered by CARFAX® vehicle history information. The expert in vehicle history since 1984, CARFAX provides exclusive services such as CARFAX Used Car Listings, CARFAX Car Care, CARFAX History-Based Value and the flagship CARFAX Vehicle History Report to consumers and the automotive industry. CARFAX owns the world's largest vehicle history database and is nationally recognized as a top workplace by The Washington Post. Shop, Buy, Service, Sell – Show me the CARFAX®.

S&P Global Mobility is a division of S&P Global (NYSE: SPGI). S&P Global is the world's foremost provider of credit ratings, benchmarks, analytics and workflow solutions in the global capital, commodity and automotive markets.

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SOURCE CARFAX

FAQ

How many catalytic converters were stolen in the U.S. in 2022 according to CARFAX?

Approximately 153,000 catalytic converters were stolen in the U.S. in 2022.

What are the top vehicles targeted for catalytic converter theft?

The top vehicles include Ford F-Series, Honda Accord, and Toyota Prius among others.

What are some prevention tips for catalytic converter theft?

Tips include parking in well-lit areas, using garages, and installing anti-theft devices.

What valuable metals are found in catalytic converters?

Catalytic converters contain precious metals such as platinum, palladium, and rhodium.

What is the impact of catalytic converter theft on car owners?

Stolen catalytic converters can cost car owners thousands of dollars to replace.