Colorado catalytic converter thefts: Answers to frequently asked questions

Miles Blumhardt, Fort Collins Coloradoan
Updated ·3 min read
4

Until several years ago, few people other than mechanics knew what a catalytic converter was.

That changed after the number of catalytic converter thefts in Colorado rose from a couple hundred per year to nearly 10,000 between 2019 to 2021, according to the Colorado Auto Theft Prevention Authority.

Legislation has been passed in Colorado to address some issues regarding these thefts.

This story will detail:

  • What catalytic converters do

  • Why thieves are targeting them

  • Top vehicles from which converters are stolen

  • Ways you can combat being victimized

What exactly does a catalytic converter do?

A catalytic converter is an emissions control device federally required on all vehicles since 1975 and installed to the exhaust system to reduce pollutants.

How will I know if my catalytic converter has been stolen?

Your vehicle check engine light will come on, it will run loud, your exhaust will be noticeably smellier and darker, and the engine will sputter and be sluggish during acceleration — all of which can damage your vehicle. Have a mechanic check your vehicle as soon as possible.

What should I do if I discover my catalytic converter is stolen?

  • Contact the police: The sooner they know about the theft, the better the odds, though slim, are that they can find the thieves.

  • Check your insurance policy: See if the theft is covered. If your vehicle only carries liability insurance, it’s likely not.

  • Get it replaced: This should be done immediately.

License plate fees: Registering a car in Larimer County? Here's a full list of the fees you'll pay, and why

How much will it cost to get my catalytic converter fixed if it's stolen?

About $2,000 to $3,000, according to CARFAX.

Why are thieves targeting catalytic converters?

Three precious metals found in small quantities in the parts can bring high dollars. Rhodium sells for about $12,000 per ounce, palladium about $1,800 per ounce and platinum about $1,000 per ounce, according to the National Insurance Crime Bureau. For comparison, gold is selling for about $2,000 per ounce.

Thieves often receive $50 to $250 per catalytic converter they sell to recycling facilities. It only takes about 1 minute for thieves to steal the item from a vehicle.

Here are vehicles from which the most catalytic converters are stolen in Colorado and other southwest states, according to CARFAX

  • Ford F-Series trucks

  • Toyota Tundra

  • Toyota Tacoma

  • Chevrolet Silverado

  • Toyota Prius

  • Honda Accord

  • Honda CR-V

  • Ford Expedition

  • Ford Explorer

  • Mitsubishi Outlander

Colorado law: New Colorado law levies fees, back taxes for late vehicle registration

Here are ways to combat having your catalytic converter stolen

  • Colorado Auto Theft Prevention Authority has scheduled events for which people can sign up for its catalytic converter label program. Windsor will host such an event from 8 a.m. to noon May 13 at the Windsor Police Department, 200 N. 11th St. Participants will receive a heat-proof, destruction-proof theft prevention do-it-yourself kit that etches a serial number into the catalytic converter. To participate, residents must sign up for a designated time at surveymonkey.com/r/96XVTW7. That event is only open to Windsor residents.

  • Park in a garage or secured parking area. Install bright motion sensor lights. Install a catalytic converter anti-theft device. Lock your vehicle and make sure your vehicle alarm is working. In public settings, look for a secure, alarmed and well-lit lot.

This article originally appeared on Fort Collins Coloradoan: Colorado catalytic converter thefts: What you need to know