The alarming rise of catalytic theft lately has probably gotten you worried whether RAV4 catalytic converter theft could also happen. While these embedded devices with expensive metals are often the targets of sticky fingers, but should you, as a RAV4 owner, be worried?
Let’s go over the overarching reasons why these “cats” can get stolen and how to prevent that from happening. I will also discuss what to do in case a theft has occurred. So stick till the end to get the entire glimpse of the picture.
Is your RAV4 on the target?
You might be wondering whether your RAV4 is under the threat of getting its catalytic converters stolen in the first place. And, in case it is, then why would this be?
Lucky for you, your RAV4, besides having two decent catalytic converters, is not exactly at the top of the list of the most targeted cars. This means that although the chances of theft aren’t zero, it is still less vulnerable than a lot of other vehicles. This can be explained by taking these factors into account:
- Both catalytic converters have a plastic shield that needs to be removed, which means thieves have more work to do.
- The catalytic converters in the RAV4 are placed such that it is more difficult to access.
- The ground clearance of the RAV4 and RAV4 Hybrid is 8.6 inches and 8.1 inches respectively. The ground clearance needed to steal them is at least 10 inches.
- Metals in the converters are comparatively less expensive than in other vehicles. The thieves are usually aware of this.
Which RAV4 is the most vulnerable?
With regards to the number of catalytic converters, the gas-powered RAV4, the hybrid RAV4, or the Plug-in Hybrid all have dual catalytic converters. However, the price of the metals in these vary, resulting in a differential theft rate.
The RAV4 Hybrid is the most vulnerable, followed by the Hybrid plug-in model (called the Prime in models before 2025). The hybrid models contain catalytic converters with the most precious metals, making them very valuable to thieves.
Conversely, the RAV4 gas engines have relatively cheaper catalytic converters and are therefore less likely to become targets. Thieves are aware that this model’s converter’s price is low.
Location and Chance of Threat
Catalytic converter theft is a nationwide problem. However, some areas are seeing an increase in crime. The most common ones are:
- Chicago
- Sacramento
- Los Angeles
- Atlanta
- California
- Texas
- Indianapolis
Even in areas where theft is rare, you can still be a victim. Thieves are getting bolder, stealing even from well-lit parking lots and dealerships. For these reasons, I recommend reading on for some helpful tips.
Decoding Your RAV4 Catalytic Converter Theft
If your catalytic converter has been stolen, there are several signs that will pop up. Look out for the following if you suspect a theft:
- The engine making more noise
- Difficulty accelerating
- Check engine light showing
- Obvious damage on the underside
- Smoke coming from the exhaust pipe
When you notice all of these signs you can be sure that the catalytic converter has been stolen. If you find these to be true, don’t panic just yet, there may be a few things that can be done to track the device.
Why is this specific piece on the target?
In case you may be wondering, out of all the parts of an SUV, why would someone go for a device that sits in the exhaust system and breaks down pollutants from the engine’s combustion? The thefts also sound comical if you estimate the device’s worth merely based on its job. But no, really, why is the catalytic converter so desirable? Let’s look at the reasons:
- There are precious metals in the catalyst. These expensive metals include palladium, platinum, and rhodium. These metals have a respective price of $992.63/oz, $946.28/oz, and $4575.00/oz.
- These metals can be recycled and resold to scrap metal dealers with high resale value.
- The catalytic converter is usually easily accessible and can be removed in just a few minutes with simple tools. That alone makes it an easy prey.
- The catalytic converter has no markings or unique identifiers, which might otherwise affect the sale.
- Fluctuating prices in the market also add to the worth of these metals.
With the metals in short supply and prices soaring, those desperate for quick cash see theft as their best fix. Plus, in just a few minutes, a thief can remove the inverter from your car and drive away. A quick trip to the local scrap yard guarantees a nice profit.
Scrap Price
The RAV4 has two catalytic converters with high resale value, even in scrap shops. This is due to the high metal content, as discussed earlier.
This is all besides the point that only a fraction of an ounce of each metal can be extracted by thieves. Yes, just a tiny amount. But, even with this fraction, a thief may make well over $100 with just one catalytic converter. Now, imagine doubling it since the RAV4 has two of these converters. If the thief gets lucky with a RAV4 Hybrid, the prices again take a boost. In terms of numbers, this translates to about $100 to about $500 of profit.
Part Position
The location of the catalytic converter can vary a bit by the model of the RAV4. However, it can usually be found being positioned on the exhaust stud. This location makes it more difficult to access than in other vehicles.
Preventive Measures
Taking precautions is incredibly useful for protecting your RAV4. Luckily, there are several deterrents out there that prevent theft.
These are especially helpful if you live in a high-crime neighborhood. Here are the options:
Miller CAT Shield
A “Miller CAT shield”—developed by the reputable brand Miller CAT—is a durable, corrosion-resistant guard for covering vulnerable car areas. This shield acts as a structural, anti-theft guard and hinders the process of stealing.
For many thieves, this can be a major turn-off, as the time required to remove the catalytic converter significantly increases in addition to the noise. This adds to the risk of getting caught reverting many thieves.
The Miller CAT shields can also be custom-made to fit the catalytic converter of your specific RAV4 model.
For the reasons mentioned above, this anti-theft shield is particularly popular among RAV4 owners, especially the ones who own the hybrid models. These benefits make this deterrent one of the best solutions on the market.
You may get this product from the official Toyota website and get it installed from one of their dealerships as well. If you want to install it yourself, the package comes with the hardware and tamper-proof screw kit. You also get an installation guide, which might be a bit too vague to understand. Therefore, I would recommend you take your car to a dealer or mechanic instead.
WSDCAM Catalytic Converter Alarm
Did you know there are alarms that are designed to make noise when they detect the catalytic converters being touched? Yes, these alarms are made precisely for the purpose of preventing catalytic converter theft.
An example of one such alarm is the “WSDCAM Catalytic Converter Alarm,” which costs only $25-$30. This trusty little device attaches to the connecting pipe or the tailpipe of the exhaust system and detects tampering. If it’s vibrations made by a thief trying to steal the catalytic converter, it gives off loud sounds of 113 db.
Additionally, this alarm is made of stainless steel and is waterproof. This means you don’t need to worry about driving on rainy roads.
On top of this, the alarm also comes with a remote control, making it a great solution for finding your car in a packed parking lot.
Cat Clamps
A standard kit by Cat Clamp is also a great solution for preventing catalytic converter thefts. This deterrent costs about $180 and covers the outside of the catalytic converter with galvanized ropes. It attaches to the exhaust pipes (not the converter) seven times. This attachment spot allows for easy heat dissipation. Moreover, these protectors also come with a 1-year limited money-back warranty. Pretty cool right!
Other Preventative Measures
There are also other preventative measures that are a bit more on the cheaper side. These are all mentioned below:
Fluorescent Paint
Probably the cheapest way to avoid theft. Simply get fluorescent-colored paint that can stand high temperatures. Painting the catalytic converter will alert the junkyard owners to theft, therefore reducing the chances of resale. If the thief still decides to steal the catalytic converter anyway, they will have to put in the extra work of removing the paint. To avoid this hassle, the thief will usually just deter away from your SUV.
VIN Engravement
If your catalytic converter is engraved with the VIN, or the “Vehicle Identification Number,” the thief is most likely to deter. This is because this allows the junkyard owner to discern the occurrence of a theft with the vehicle’s number. Knowing this, the thief will usually avoid the theft. A cheap fix for an expensive risk.
What to do if yours is gone?
If your efforts fail and your catalytic converter is stolen, you need to act quickly. Here are some steps you should take.
- Gather any potential evidence, including witnesses, video footage, etc.
- Report the incident to the local police.
- If you have comprehensive insurance on your car, file a claim (you may still have to pay a deductible and/or potential premium)
- Check prices for a new catalytic converter at local repair shops (OEM parts might be more expensive but better quality than aftermarket ones)
- Get the catalytic converter installed by a qualified mechanic
- Make use of the deterrents discussed above to avoid future thefts.
Catalytic Converter Replacement Cost
When replacing a stolen catalytic converter, the typical cost for a Toyota RAV4 catalytic converter ranges between $800 and $862 as estimated by RepairPal. That’s pretty hefty! The mechanic fees are almost like a cherry on top, with an additional $150 to $200. Together, the entire replacement cost is likely to cost you something between $9500 and $1,100. It’s better to follow through with the precautions.
FAQs
Which RAV4 models are least likely to be victims of catalytic converter theft?
The 2022 RAV4 models have a ground clearance of 8.4 inches, meaning thieves who need at least 10 inches will usually avoid it.
Are newer cars safer from catalytic converter theft?
No, the newer the car, the more desirable it becomes. Hybrids are popular because lower emissions mean there is more metal in the catalytic converter.
What vehicles are the most common targets for catalytic converter theft?
The most targeted cars for catalytic converter theft include Toyota Prius, Honda Accord, Honda CR-V, Toyota Tacoma, and Ford F-Series trucks, as they contain high-value metals and are easy to access.
Which SUV is least likely to have its catalytic converter stolen?
SUVs with lower ground clearance, such as the Ford Escape or Chevrolet Equinox, are less likely to have their catalytic converters stolen because they are harder to access.
Why are Toyota catalytic converters so expensive?
Toyota catalytic converters are expensive due to their high content of precious metals like platinum, palladium, and rhodium, which are essential for efficient emissions control.
How to prevent catalytic converter theft Toyota?
Prevent catalytic converter theft on a Toyota by installing a catalytic converter shield, parking in well-lit or secure areas, and engraving the VIN on the converter to deter resale.
Why do people steal catalytic converters from Toyota?
People steal Toyota's (and other manufacturer’s) catalytic converters because they contain valuable metals like platinum, palladium, and rhodium, which can be sold for a high price.
Can I paint my catalytic converter?
Yes, you can paint your catalytic converter with high-temperature fluorescent spray paint, such as bright-colored heat-resistant paint, to deter thieves by making it traceable.
Does the RAV4 Prime have a catalytic converter?
Yes, the Toyota RAV4 Prime has a catalytic converter as part of its hybrid exhaust system to reduce emissions.
Do all modern cars have a catalytic converter?
Yes, all modern cars, i.e., those manufactured after 1975, have a catalytic converter in compliance with the Clean Air Act mandated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
Why are larger Toyota models more frequently targeted?
The larger models of Toyota or any other manufacturer are more frequently targeted as they have a higher ground clearance. This means the thief can simply slide under the vehicle without needing a jack to lift it.
Is it legal to drive your car if it doesn’t have a catalytic converter?
No, probably not. A catalytic converter is a legal requirement, and therefore I wouldn’t recommend you drive around much without it. The emission laws prevent this. So, you may run the risk of getting fined by the police.
How can I tell if my catalytic converter has been stolen?
You will hear the engine making more noise and the engine accelerating slower. The check engine light will also come on. The exhaust pipe will show a darker emission, and you will notice visible damage on the vehicle’s underside.
Does car insurance cover catalytic converter theft?
Yes, if you have comprehensive car insurance, it may cover the theft. But you might still have to pay deductibles and potential premium increases.
Where are catalytic converters being stolen?
Catalytic converters are being stolen in parking lots, driveways, and poorly lit areas, with thefts common in urban and suburban regions.
Do hybrid cars have catalytic converters?
Yes, hybrid cars have catalytic converters to reduce emissions, and they are often targeted for theft due to their higher precious metal content.
Sources
To get a glimpse of the scrap prices of the Toyota RAV4’s catalytic converter, click this link. To purchase the products mentioned in this article, you may find them on Amazon or the company’s official websites.
Conclusion
The catalytic converter theft for their valuable metal content is a huge problem in many states of the U.S. The Toyota RAV4, besides not being the top target, is still a vulnerable vehicle. The RAV4 Hybrids tend to be the most vulnerable to such thefts due to higher metal content.
Fortunately, the automobile industry has clapped back to such attempts with promising technological solutions like the Miller CAT shield, the WSDCAM catalytic converter alarm, and the Cat clamp galvanized rope cage to protect the component from sticky fingers.
Alternatively, the cheaper solutions on the market include painting the catalytic converter with fluorescent colors or engraving the VIN onto it. This also makes for a good deterrent as doing so makes the scrap yard owner second guess the intentions of the thief and therefore make the thief avoid your vehicle in the first place.
If your RAV4 has been stolen you need to contact the police and give them any evidence that you can gather (camera video footage or witnesses etc.). You also may want to check your car insurance for coverage of thefts and file for a claim. As for the new catalytic converter, make sure to follow the deterrents for better luck next time!