Comprehensive coverage includes catalytic converter theft, which many car insurance companies offer. Rhodium . How can I tell if my catalytic converter has been stolen? With this massive increase in stolen catalytic converters, it is vital to identify a missing catalytic converter in your vehicle. It isnt obvious when they are stolen: You wouldnt know a car was missing a catalytic converter by looking at it, which means someone could steal a catalytic converter from a car sitting in a driveway or parking lot and it likely wouldnt be discovered until the owner took the car to the shop to find out why their check engine light came on., Driving a car without a catalytic converter is a very different experience than driving a car with a catalytic converter, so you should feel the difference as soon as you start driving the car. The cost of comprehensive coverage varies depending on the company used and the state of residence. A typical catalytic converter repair job costs $1,100 to $2,600, including parts and labor. Theft can occur in just under two minutes with easily acquired tools. You may also smell the emissions coming from your vehicle when the catalytic converter is missing. If you have full coverage car insurance, then you should be able to make a claim after your catalytic converter is stolen. You may be asked to provide the case number of the report so the agent can follow up. To compare quotes from many different car insurance companies please enter your ZIP code on this page to use the free quote tool. Way, People Also Ask does farmers insurance cover catalytic converter theft. makes the theft of a cars catalytic converter worth the risk for many thieves since just an ounce of these metals can produce a cumulative of around $30,000 per ounce. This code holds a lot of information, including who your. Install a cage around your catalytic converter. A common indication that your catalytic converter is missing is that your car is louder than usual while driving. Still have questions? Whether an accident or other loss is covered is subject to the terms and conditions of the actual insurance policy or policies involved in the claim. Comprehensive insurance covers your car against any damage or loss not due to a collision. Your catalytic converter is under your car, so it may not be immediately obvious if your converter is missing. Tell your insurance agent as soon as possible that your catalytic converter has been stolen and that youve filed a police report. Does renters insurance cover theft from cars? Get quick tips for navigating life, from car- and home-ownership to going on adventures. help protect your car against catalytic converter theft by etching the license plate Some of the signs of a stolen catalytic converter include: You may also notice missing parts under your vehicle after catalytic converter theft. Required fields are marked *. An original manufacturer converter will cost you more than a generic model,so if this happens to you its worth shopping around to get the best price. For example, SUVs, trucks, and hybrids tend to be the best cars for thieves to target because of the catalytic converters value and ease of access. They will check local security cameras and work to see if they can help catch the person who stole your converter. We are committed to manufacturing the best products for your vehicle and are constantly improving our design and capabilities to give you the highest level of deterrence. It has been a requirement for all vehicles since 1975 and is made up of a metal honeycomb that filters and transforms hazardous compounds in the exhaust into a safer gas. The final insurance policy premium for any policy is determined by the underwriting insurance company following application. And for good reason, converters are extremely expensive to replace. Top-selling hybrids and hybrid models that dont have a matching all-gas equivalent may be most vulnerable because theyre easier to identify. To file a claim for catalytic converter theft, contact your insurance company. If you seek to protect your vehicle from potential theft, vandalism, or damage to your catalytic converter. You may hear sputtering noises, smell exhaust and notice spotty acceleration that may indicate that something is wrong. Thankfully, if you have comprehensive coverage on your vehicle, youre in luck. Considering the cost to replace and repair any damage, it may be in your best interest to protect yourself with comprehensive auto insurance just in case. According to the Congressional Research Service, 14,433 catalytic converters were stolen in 2020. Email me direct, or learn more about us, Your email address will not be published. Some examples include electric cars, cars made before 1974, diesel catalytic converters, Subaru, Ford, Hyundai, Dodge, Mazda, Nissan sedans and minivans. It all depends on your policy. Drivers who have their catalytic converter stolen can file a comprehensive claim and it will likely be covered, though you should check the details of your policy to verify what is and is not covered.. WebStep 1: Contact the Authorities. Using powertools,the thieves can get away with your catalytic converter in just a couple of minutes. Write an appeal letter The letter should outline why you disagree with your insurance providers decision. These large repair bills can be impossible for some motorists to meet. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); MyCarVoice.com is a crowdsource platform with the goal of helping owners with their car problems. In some cases, your car can be replaced or repaired using your deductible and comprehensive coverage. Catalytic converters use all kinds of rare and valuable metals, including palladium, rhodium, and platinum. Compare rates and shop affordable car insurance today. Even vehicles shipped from overseas must have a compliant catalytic converter; if it lacks one, a new one is usually installed before sale. The catalytic converter is a component of your vehicle that reduces hazardous emissions. A catalytic converter is a key automotive component that reduces harmful emissions. If you discover your catalytic converter is missing, take your car to a repair shop and have it replaced as soon as possible. Please note that information published on this website does not constitute financial advice, and we arent responsible for the content of any external sites. Theres an obvious reason why thefts have increased: the values of the precious metals in catalytic converters have risen significantly in recent years, making catalytic converters a tempting target for thieves. A rising trend in the protection of your vehicle concerns its catalytic converter. As a result, toxic gases are no longer being converted into less dangerous alternatives. As long as you have comprehensive coverage, you should be able to make a claim for catalytic converter theft. What to do if your car is stolen or vandalized. However, no car is truly safe. What cars are targeted for catalytic converter theft? Policygenius uses external sources, including government data, industry studies, and reputable news organizations to supplement proprietary marketplace data and internal expertise. Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors. Catalytic converters typically turn vehicle exhaust white or pale gray. Your email address will not be published. Why Do People Steal Catalytic Converters? In 2020, insurance claims for a stolen catalytic converter ranged from $500 to Any gas-powered car made after 1975 can be a target, but the top vehicles for catalytic converter theft tend to be older cars because they have a larger amount of valuable metals in their catalytic converters. Converters use two primary types of catalysts: reduction and oxidation. Complete car repairs. If your cars rear is inaccessible, thieves will be less likely to target your vehicle since the converter will be harder to get. Assurances license information can be foundhere. This vital component was added to vehicle manufacturing in the 1970s and has become a mandatory part of the automobile industry. Jones says an anti-theft device can help. What to Know When Buying a Moped or Scooter. Catalytic converter theft is on the rise and may continue to rise. (Bellevue, WA) or affiliates. This combination makes catalytic converters a popular target for thieves. Catch what's new from Progressive online, on TV, and on the road. Your insurance company can explain the next steps to take like visiting a local repair shop and paying your deductible. Depending on your coverage options, you may receive compensation for catalytic converter theft from your insurer. A stolen catalytic converter sold to a scrap yard can sell for $25 to $500, according to a 2021 report by the Congressional Research Service.if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'mycarvoice_com-large-mobile-banner-1','ezslot_12',608,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-mycarvoice_com-large-mobile-banner-1-0'); Yes, you should contact your local police department immediately. If your converter is stolen, your insurance may cover the theft, depending on the circumstances and the type of policy youve purchased. He has a deep knowledge of insurance rules and regulations and is passionate about helping drivers save money on auto insurance. Discovering which coverage is the best for protection against catalytic converter theft, what coverage costs are, and how to spot a tampered catalytic converter is at your fingertips. All Rights Reserved. Copyright Ocean Finance 2001-2023. Your car insurance may cover the cost of replacing your catalytic converter. He holds a bachelor's degree from Bentley University and his work has been quoted by NBC News, CNN, and The Washington Post. An engine of a missing catalytic converter will sound much louder than a usual motor. These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously. Another option for those who want to protect their catalytic converters is to purchase a cage-like, anti-theft device created for catalytic converters. In somecases,the DPF (diesel particulate filter) is also stolen from diesel cars. Are all Farmers Insurance policies available in every state? Plus, comprehensive coverage can help cover repairs and losses like vandalism, theft, hail and other damages that are not related to a collision. Unfortunately, no. Some automakers install the converter with bolts while others weld it in place. Is a stolen catalytic converter covered by insurance. For example, if your converter is worth $3,000 and your deductible is $500, you would pay $500, and your insurance company would pay the remaining $2,500. If you discover your catalytic converter has been stolen, take your car to a mechanic immediately. How does long-term disability insurance work? The additional and inexpensive cost of comprehensive coverage can save car owners discomfort and stress. Copyright 1995 - 2023. Can you get insurance with a salvage title car? Especially with the surge in catalytic converter thefts. The difference in price is primarily around parts, as labor is generally a small part of the expense. Of course, its always best to speak with your own insurance agent to get the specifics of your policy and coverage. Disclaimer: We make every effort to ensure that content is correct at the time of publication. Because the converter is mounted underneath the car, with the proper tools, thieves can remove a catalytic converter inless than two minutes. Get a personalized Home Insurance quote now. He is responsible for researching and writing about anything auto insurance-related. or Catalytic converters in hybrids have a higher concentration of precious metals compared to gas cars. If you have comprehensive coverage on your auto insurance policy, then you're typically covered against catalytic converter theft. Catalytic converter theft falls under theft and/or vandalism, and comprehensive coverage should cover it. Remember that catalytic converter replacement is covered under comprehensive insurance, not collision or liability coverage. Web3. We are not affiliated with any one car insurance company and cannot guarantee quotes from any single company. When you start the car, it may be much louder than usual because a stolen catalytic converter will disconnect the muffler. Insurance doesn't have to be complicated. Be prepared to These signs for identifying a missing catalytic converter can help you decide when you need to contact authorities and your insurance company. Comprehensive coverage can help cover repairs and losses from catalytic converter theft. It does not store any personal data. Thieves then sell it to a scrap metal yard, which will then sell it to someone else who can remove and recycle the precious metals. Generally, converter theft is covered under comprehensive auto insurance. Read on to learn more about the most frequently stolen cars here. It only takes a few minutes for a thief to steal a catalytic converter. We are not responsible for the content of any third-party sites linked from this page. All Rights Reserved. This honeycomb transforms the emissions from dangerous automotive exhaust into safer gases. Please note: The above is meant as general information to help you understand the different aspects of insurance. Truth is, your insurance agent will know better than anyone whats covered under your plan. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. Can I Drive Without a Catalytic Converter? Generally, this coverage has an approximate annual cost of $100 $300. We are not affiliated with any one car insurance company and cannot guarantee quotes from any single company. People steal catalytic converters for the resale value of their components. All vehicles manufactured in the U.S. after 1974 must have catalytic converters. What is a Life Insurance Annuity And How Does it Work? What Are the Best Auto Insurance Companies for Seniors? This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. Email us ateditorial@policygenius.com. Even if you own your car outright, it's never a bad idea to consider additional protection, especially if you can't spare $1K to replace your catalytic converter. For more information on how we use your data, please see our privacy policy. Should You Be Concerned? Thefts rose even more during the 2020 lockdown due to the increasing value of the metals that are found in catalytic converters. That year, the most frequently stolen vehicles were Ford pickup, Ram pickup, Jeep Cherokee, Nissan Sentra and Dodge Charger. The vehicle identification number is near the outside base of the drivers side windshield or inside the drivers door jam. This makes it difficult for a thief to access your catalytic converter. Can someone drive my car and be covered on my insurance? Since catalytic converters are the last line of defense against dangerous exhaust emissions, you would have to replace one very quickly if it has been stolen. report a claim Comprehensive coverage covers damage to your vehicle that occurs outside Cars with a high ground clearance making access easier are also targeted, including vans and 4x4s. You may also notice a foul odor from the unclean exhaust now exiting the vehicle. Which is why its crucial to know what your car insurance covers. Comprehensive Coverage Includes Catalytic Converter Theft. Drivers who dont have comprehensive insurance wont be covered for any kind of car theft and will have to pay out of pocket to get a replacement. But as well as the cost of replacing the converter you may have to fix any damage done to your car during the theft. A catalytic converter is part of your cars exhaust system that reduces harmful emissions. Stealing a catalytic converter is easier than you might think. Do You Need It? On average, with parts and labor, costs can range between $900 and $3,000. The cost of labor to put the new converter on will add to the price. Additionally, your check engine light coming on is one of the most obvious signs your catalytic converter is missing. Its important to note that different insurance companies have different policies when it comes to covering theft. Hybrid cars can also be a favorite for thieves because their catalytic converters see much less use than standard cars, resulting in metal that's easier to salvage. Perhaps even more important than the vehicle's age and condition is its body style and construction. Prices vary based on how you buy. Between key fobs and security alarms, car protection can seem like a lot to handle for many drivers. Have you ever had something stolen from your car? Comprehensive coverage covers damage to your vehicle that occurs outside of accidents, including fire damage, water damage, theft, and vandalism. Catalytic converters are an essential element to your car's exhaust system that minimizes dangerous emissions to make your vehicle more environmentally friendly and less pollutant. In 2018, there were 1,300 reported thefts; in 2021, there were more than 52,000. Catalytic converter thefts have been growing steadily over the past few years. The metal inside the converter is valuable, making it easy to resell these devices to scrap yards or other buyers. Generally, converter theft is covered under comprehensive auto insurance. Instead, you should be able to make a claim and continue to pay the same rates for car insurance. Gases such as carbon monoxide can cause headaches, dizziness, and nausea when inhaled. 2023 Smartfinancial.com Ins LLC DBA SmartFinancial Insurance. Your insurance company should cover the cost of replacing your catalytic converter, assuming you have comprehensive coverage. Gases pass through an input pipe into the converter itself, which looks like a metal box. The organization tracks the number of catalytic converter thefts reported to insurance agencies. For instance, carbon monoxide, a poisonous gas, enters the converter, mixes with oxygen, and exits as carbon dioxide. Depending on the replacement cost, you can determine if using your comprehensive insurance makes sense or if you want to pay out of pocket. Yes, catalytic converter theft is covered by car insurance, as long as you have comprehensive coverage. If thieves steal your catalytic converter, then you should be able to make a claim under your comprehensive coverage. For those with deductible plans, you may be obligated to pay for the replacement of a converter if you havent met your deductible amount yet. Compare quotes from several insurance carriers to ensure that you get the best deal on your auto insurance overall. It's been a mandatory part of all gas-powered cars since the 1975 model year, and it's located between the engine and the muffler on the underside of the vehicle. 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Will add to the Congressional Research Service, 14,433 catalytic converters 's age and condition is its body style construction... Discover your catalytic converter theft, vandalism, or damage to your that! And paying your deductible and comprehensive coverage varies depending on the company used and the state of residence disagree! Of $ 100 $ 300 bolts while others weld it in place I tell my... Cookies ensure basic functionalities and security alarms, car protection can seem like a lot handle! On this page to use the free quote tool paying your deductible parts, as labor generally. It difficult for a thief to access your catalytic converter found in catalytic converters were stolen in 2020 able make! Repair bills can be replaced or repaired using your deductible remove a catalytic converter theft on! Weld it in place may hear sputtering noises, smell exhaust and spotty... Become a mandatory part of the most frequently stolen cars here cover repairs and from. Collision or liability coverage is set by GDPR cookie consent plugin might think code holds a lot of,... One of the website, anonymously please note: the above is meant as general information to help you the. Dont have a higher concentration of precious metals compared to gas cars rising in! And writing about anything auto insurance-related cause headaches, dizziness, and platinum mechanic...
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does farmers insurance cover catalytic converter theft