Auto Insurance: Catalytic Converter Theft Coverage

Catalytic converter theft is typically covered by auto insurance, provided you have comprehensive coverage. Comprehensive coverage will pay to replace the stolen catalytic converter and repair any related damage from its removal. However, for those without full coverage or comprehensive coverage, theft will not be covered by insurance. Liability-only insurance policies do not cover any type of vandalism or theft, or damage related to catalytic converter removal.

Comprehensive coverage

The comprehensive deductible will apply to the claim, so if your deductible is higher than the cost of the repair, you may not be able to file a claim as insurance only covers damage above your deductible amount. For example, if you have a $1,000 deductible and it costs $1,500 to replace the catalytic converter, the insurance company will write you a cheque for $500, and you will be expected to pay the rest out of pocket.

To confirm whether your insurance policy includes comprehensive coverage, call your insurance provider. Even if you have comprehensive coverage, it's worth confirming with your provider that they cover catalytic converter theft, as comprehensive insurance does not cover everything.

If your catalytic converter has been stolen, the first step is to get confirmation from a mechanic. They can tell if your catalytic converter has been stolen by looking underneath your vehicle to see if it's missing. Driving a short distance without a catalytic converter shouldn't damage your vehicle, but to avoid long-term damage, you will need to get it replaced.

Once you have confirmed the theft, the next step is to call your local police station and report the theft over the phone. This serves two purposes: your insurance company may request a copy of the report number to process your claim, and it helps the police compile information about which areas are being targeted for catalytic converter theft.

After notifying the police, you can call your insurance provider and start the process of making an insurance claim. They may email you some forms to fill out, or they may request some information from you, such as your insurance policy number, date of birth, address, or other identifying information. Depending on the situation and your insurer, you may be asked to get an estimated cost of repair from a mechanic. The estimate will need to be approved by your insurer before repair work can begin.

Full coverage

If you have full coverage or comprehensive coverage of your vehicle, your insurance company will typically cover the theft of your catalytic converter. Comprehensive coverage will usually pay for the replacement of the stolen catalytic converter and repair any related damage caused by its removal.

If you do not have full coverage or comprehensive coverage, theft will not be covered by your insurance, and you will have to pay out of pocket for a replacement.

To confirm if you have full coverage and to understand your policy's specifics, contact your insurance provider. It is also worth confirming that your current provider covers catalytic converter theft, as comprehensive insurance does not cover everything.

You will also need to find out what your deductible is. This is the amount you pay before your vehicle insurance coverage kicks in. If your deductible is more than the cost of the repair, you may not be able to file a claim, as insurance only covers damage above your deductible amount.

If your catalytic converter has been stolen, take your car to a mechanic immediately. You should also call your local police station and report the theft. This will help the insurance company process your claim, and it will also help the police compile information about catalytic converter theft in the area.

Once the police have been notified, contact your insurance provider and start the process of making an insurance claim. They may ask you to fill out some forms or provide personal information, such as your insurance policy number, date of birth, and address. Depending on your insurer, you may be asked to get an estimated cost of repair from a mechanic.

Claim process

If your catalytic converter has been stolen, you should first take your car to a mechanic. Driving without a catalytic converter can be hazardous, so consider calling a tow truck.

Once you have confirmation from a mechanic that your catalytic converter has been stolen, call your local police station and report the theft. This will be useful when filing an insurance claim, as the insurance company may request a copy of the report number.

If you have comprehensive car insurance coverage, you can then contact your insurer to file a claim. Log into your policy online and submit a claim, or call them directly. You may also be able to report your claim via your insurer's mobile app.

Speak with a claims specialist who can guide you through the process. They may request some information, such as your insurance policy number, date of birth, address, or other identifying information. Your insurer may also email you some forms to fill out or send a link to complete online.

Depending on the situation and your insurer, you may be asked to get an estimated cost of repair from a mechanic or mechanics. The estimate will need to be approved by your insurer before repair work can begin. Once your claim has been approved and the repair work has been completed, the insurer will settle your claim by reimbursing you for the cost of the repair, or by paying the repair shop directly.

If you need a tow and have comprehensive coverage, your insurer will likely cover the cost of getting your vehicle towed to the repair shop. Confirm this with your insurer first. They may also be able to arrange a rental vehicle while your car is being repaired.

It is worth noting that some insurers may insist you take your car to a repair shop of their choice, as they may have negotiated a contract with certain repair shops to control labor rates. Check with your insurance provider to see if you can choose where your car gets repaired.

Preventing theft

Preventing Catalytic Converter Theft

As a car owner, the mere mention of catalytic converter theft is enough to make you shudder. The good news is that there are several steps you can take to protect your vehicle from this type of crime. Here are some tips to prevent catalytic converter theft:

Know if You're a Target

Firstly, it's important to understand if your vehicle is at high risk for catalytic converter theft. Trucks, SUVs, and vans are common targets because their high ground clearance makes it easier for thieves to slide under the vehicle and access the converter. Older cars are also attractive to thieves as their catalytic converters contain larger amounts of valuable metals. Hybrid cars are also frequently targeted because their catalytic converters are used less and contain metals that are easier to salvage.

Install an Anti-Theft Device

One of the most effective ways to deter catalytic converter theft is to install a cable locking device or anti-theft shield. These devices make it more difficult and time-consuming for thieves to access the catalytic converter. Some popular options include steel shields, cages made of high-strength steel, and stainless steel cables welded from the catalytic converter to the car's frame. While these devices may not make it impossible to steal the converter, they can act as a deterrent, encouraging thieves to move on to an easier target.

Paint Your Catalytic Converter

Consider using a high-temperature fluorescent paint, such as the kind used on barbecue grills, to paint your catalytic converter. You can then inscribe your vehicle identification number on the painted surface. This makes it easier to trace the converter if it is stolen and may deter scrap metal dealers from purchasing it.

Set Up an Alarm or Camera

You can increase the sensitivity of your car alarm so that it goes off when someone tries to tamper with your vehicle. Additionally, you can install motion-sensitive lights or a motion-sensitive dash cam to catch thieves in the act or record the license plate of their getaway car. Parking in your driveway or a closed garage, whenever possible, can also make it more difficult for thieves to access your vehicle unnoticed.

Check Your Car Insurance

Review your car insurance policy to ensure you have comprehensive coverage, which typically covers stolen auto parts. If you have a vehicle at high risk for catalytic converter theft, consider lowering your deductible amount to minimize your out-of-pocket expenses in the event of a claim.

Park Strategically

Whenever possible, park your vehicle in well-lit and well-traveled areas. Thieves prefer to operate in the shadows, so a busy, brightly lit location can make your car a less appealing target.

Etch Your Vehicle Identification Number

Consider etching your vehicle's unique identification number (VIN) onto the catalytic converter. This makes it easier to track and can act as a deterrent, as scrap metal dealers may be less likely to purchase a clearly marked converter.

Stay Informed and Alert

Get to know your neighbors and join neighborhood networks or apps such as NextDoor. By staying connected, you can be aware of any suspicious activity or reports of theft in your area and take extra precautions when necessary.

While there is no guaranteed way to completely prevent catalytic converter theft, implementing these strategies can significantly reduce your risk and make your vehicle a less attractive target for thieves.

Signs of theft

Signs of catalytic converter theft

The theft of catalytic converters is often a crime of opportunity, and it can be hard to spot at first glance. Here are some signs that your catalytic converter has been stolen:

• Your vehicle is very loud: When you start your car, it will sound much louder than usual, and the noise will get worse when you accelerate. This is because the catalytic converter helps to muffle engine noise, so when it's missing, the vehicle will sound much louder.
• The check engine light is on: The engine control unit (ECU) in your car will run tests and detect that something is wrong, turning on the check engine light. This is usually due to oxygen sensors in your exhaust being triggered.
• You get a headache when the windows are down: Without a catalytic converter, your vehicle will produce up to 20 times more carbon monoxide, which can seep into the cabin of your car and cause headaches, nausea, and dizziness.
• You have a high-value vehicle: Pick-up trucks, SUVs, and hybrids are common targets because they are higher off the ground, making it easier to access the catalytic converter. The Toyota Prius is also frequently targeted because it has two catalytic converters, which contain larger amounts of precious metals.
• You see damage or missing parts under your vehicle: If you look under your car, you may see an empty space and exposed sections of the exhaust line. Thieves usually cut out the catalytic converter, so you may see saw marks and other damage.
• The vehicle is sluggish or has poor performance: Modern vehicles are designed to have functional catalytic converters, so driving without one can cause poor performance, rough driving, and uneven acceleration.

Frequently asked questions