Catalytic Converters

The Auto Shop can replace your catalytic converter with OEM replacement catalytic converters whenever you need one. We recommend that you avoid replacing your original catalytic converter with a universal one because the universal catalytic converters typically don’t last very long.

What is a Catalytic Converter

A catalytic converter is installed between your vehicle›s engine and the muffler. They have been installed on vehicles sold in the United States since the mid-1970s.

The inside of the catalytic converter is coated with precious metals like platinum, rhodium and palladium, which clean toxic pollutants from the vehicle’s exhaust. The precious metals inside the catalytic converters are of high value, which makes them a target for thieves.

Catalytic Converter Theft

The Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department reported a 400% increase in catalytic convert thefts from 2019 to 2020. According to AAA spokesman Doug Shupe, catalytic converter replacements have increased more that 90% during 2020 across California.

On some vehicles, a thief can remove your catalytic converter in less than 2 minutes! Hybrid vehicles, like Toyota Prius, and vehicles with high ground clearance are particularly susceptible to catalytic converter theft.

How to protect your vehicle

First, make sure your insurance covers the theft of your catalytic converter. If you have an insurance claim, The Auto Shop can help you by dealing directly with your insurance company.

Second, if you have an alarm, you may be able to set it to detect when your car is raised, and the vibration associated with someone trying to remove your catalytic converter.

Third, when possible, park your vehicle inside your garage so that it is not accessible to potential thieves.

A fourth option is to make your vehicle less appealing to opportunists, by having us install a theft deterrent device onto your catalytic converter. Call The Auto Shop at (209)527-8660 to find out if your vehicle can be fitted with a catalytic converter theft deterrent device.