Catalytic Converter Theft in 2026: Why It’s Still Happening and Why It’s Coming Back
Many drivers think catalytic converter theft was a short-lived problem that peaked years ago. But in 2026, thefts are still being reported, and the underlying cause — high precious metal prices — hasn’t changed.
In fact, police in Troy, Michigan say catalytic converter thefts are rising again, with recent reports of multiple break-ins tied to converter theft. And just weeks into the new year, Berkeley, California police reported at least 8 thefts, including an incident where thieves pulled a gun on a vehicle owner during a catalytic converter theft.
Even law enforcement agencies like the Harris County Sheriff’s Office are warning drivers that thefts have increased again and can happen in minutes — especially in dark or unsecured areas.
Despite new laws, arrests, and public awareness campaigns, catalytic converter theft continues — and the reason is simple: precious metal prices are rising again. Platinum, palladium, and rhodium are trading near their highest levels in the last three years, making catalytic converters profitable targets once more.
When metal prices go up, theft follows. That pattern has not changed.
Why Laws Haven’t Solved the Problem
Stricter scrap regulations and VIN-etching programs have helped, but they have not eliminated theft. Enforcement varies by state, organized theft rings adapt quickly, and converters are still easy to remove in minutes with basic tools.
As long as converters remain valuable and exposed underneath vehicles, the incentive to steal them remains.
Vehicles Most Commonly Targeted in 2026
Thieves focus on vehicles that are common, easy to access, and valuable on the resale market.
Toyota
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Prius
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Tacoma
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Tundra
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RAV4
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Corolla
Hybrids are especially targeted due to higher precious metal content.
Ford
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F-150
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Super Duty trucks
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Transit and E-Series vans
Higher ground clearance makes access easier.
General Motors
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Silverado
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Sierra
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Tahoe
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Suburban
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Express vans
What Doesn’t Work
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Etching or painting a catalytic converter may help with identification after a theft, but it does not stop a thief from cutting it out.
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Confronting a thief is dangerous. There are documented cases of thieves being armed, and people have been seriously injured or killed trying to intervene. No vehicle part is worth risking your life.
What Actually Helps
The most effective deterrent is physical protection.
A properly designed catalytic converter shield:
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Blocks direct access
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Increases time and noise required to steal
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Pushes thieves to move on to easier targets
Theft is opportunistic. When it’s no longer quick or easy, criminals usually leave.
The Bottom Line for 2026
Catalytic converter theft is not over. It rises and falls with market forces, and those forces are once again pushing prices — and theft — upward.
If you drive a commonly targeted Toyota, Ford, or GM vehicle, prevention now is far less costly than dealing with theft later. Physical protection remains one of the most reliable ways to stay ahead of a problem that continues to resurface.
