- Catalytic converter theft is still active in October 2026. Police in Alabama, Ontario and Illinois reported new cases between Oct. 13 and Oct. 20.
- Rhodium, palladium and platinum prices climbed sharply again in 2026, per a July 2026 market signal. That puts the scrap value of a single converter in the hundreds of dollars.
- Trucks and SUVs are hit most because a converter can be cut out in under two minutes without lifting the vehicle (July 2026 theft-trend signal).
- A catalytic converter shield makes the theft slower and harder. It does not guarantee your vehicle will not be targeted.
- Replacing a stolen converter without adding protection can leave you exposed. One Indiana school district was hit again after replacing stolen parts.
Is catalytic converter theft still happening in 2026?
Yes. Catalytic converter theft is still being reported every week across North America in October 2026. If you park a truck or SUV outside, it is worth acting before the cold months.
What do this month's police reports show?
The reports come from different places, but the pattern is the same: converters are taken from parked vehicles, fleets and lots.
- Talladega County, Alabama (Oct. 20, 2026): The Sheriff's Office is investigating the theft of a substantial number of catalytic converters and other metal items (The Anniston Star).
- Etobicoke, Ontario (Oct. 15, 2026): Police arrested a man in the theft from a food charity's trucks. They also link him to more converter thefts targeting businesses in the area (CityNews Toronto).
- Brookfield, Illinois (Oct. 13, 2026): Police logged two catalytic converter thefts, including one at a home on Sunnyside Avenue (Riverside-Brookfield Landmark).
- Las Vegas (Sept. 22, 2026): A father got his stolen car back and found the converter gone (KSNV).
Why are catalytic converter thefts rising again?
Metal prices. A July 2026 market signal reports that rhodium, palladium and platinum prices have climbed sharply again in 2026. The scrap value of a single converter is now in the hundreds of dollars.
The same signal says law enforcement and insurance data show thefts tracking the metals market. When prices rise, thefts follow within weeks. We explain the full picture in Catalytic Converter Theft in 2026: Why It's Still Happening and Why It's Coming Back.
Which vehicles do thieves target most?
Trucks and SUVs. Their factory ride height gives thieves access to the exhaust without a jack, according to a July 2026 theft-trend signal. Sedans and lowered vehicles are hit far less often for the same reason.
If you drive a pickup or SUV, you are in the higher-risk group. Our posts on popular vehicles for catalytic converter theft and why the Ford F-150's converter is at risk cover specific models.
Why isn't replacing a stolen converter enough?
A replacement converter can be just as valuable to a thief as the original. In July 2026, WIBC reported that Beech Grove, Indiana buses were hit by converter thefts again. The district said the stolen parts had been replaced after a similar theft in May.
Replacement is also costly. See the true cost of catalytic converter replacement for what to budget.
How can you protect your catalytic converter this fall?
Layer your defenses. Make your vehicle a harder, slower target than the one next to it.
- Park smart. Use a locked garage or a well-lit, busy spot. Thieves avoid exposure. More in our 8 catalytic converter theft prevention tips.
- Install a catalytic converter shield. Miller CAT Cat Shields are made from 304 stainless steel or 5052 aluminum, depending on the application, to provide you with the best combination of deterrence and value. Our tamper proof screws allow you to remove the shield with a special bit driver that is not sold in stores.
- Check fitment first. Verify your make, model, year and any modifications such as lift kits or an aftermarket converter. Our 7 questions to ask before buying a shield will help.
- Skip the myths. Some popular tips do not work. See common prevention tips that don't actually work.
- Report any theft. Reports help police spot hotspots.
