
This can be a problem, as catalytic converters from some older model vehicles are high in demand because they can contain more of the precious metal than newer cars. Otherwise, you may be on the hook for a large bill.ĭrivers with older model cars often only carry liability insurance as required by law, and forsake comprehensive coverage. The key thing here is whether your policy includes comprehensive coverage. Once the car is safely at the repair shop, the next call should be to the insurance company.ĭoes auto insurance cover catalytic converter theft? Thieves typically cut the part off from beneath the vehicle with a power saw or blowtorch, and if they do a hatchet job, they can damage other systems as well, possibly affecting the vehicle’s driveability. Mechanics say a car can operate without its catalytic converter, but it will be extremely noisy and spew fumes both inside and outside the vehicle. “Don’t drive it,” says David Bennett, manager of repair systems for the Automobile Association of America. So you’ve discovered your catalytic converter has been stolen. What should you do if your catalytic converter is stolen? Thieves sometimes can collect up to $1,000 for one catalytic converter depending on its condition and the car it was taken from, experts say.

As the value of the precious metals contained within the catalytic converters continues to increase, so do the number of thefts of these devices,” said David Glawe, the group’s president and CEO. “We have seen a significant increase during the pandemic. “‘As the value of the precious metals contained within the catalytic converters continues to increase, so do the number of thefts of these devices.‘ ” - David Glawe, President of the National Insurance Crime Bureau
