Catalytic Converter Thefts: A Decreasing Trend in 2023 Catalytic converter thefts, a recurring issue plaguing vehicle owners across the United States, seem to be on the decline. According to recent data from State Farm, the number of claims related to catalytic converter thefts has significantly decreased in 2023 compared to the previous year. This marks the first time in years that such thefts have seen a decline. In the first half of 2023, around 14,500 claims were filed for catalytic converter thefts, a significant decrease from the 23,000 claims made during the same time frame in 2022. If this trend continues throughout the year, the U.S. could witness the lowest number of reported catalytic converter thefts in years. Catalytic converters are a prime target for thieves due to their potential resale value. These devices, which filter out harmful byproducts from a vehicle’s exhaust, contain precious metals such as platinum, palladium, and rhodium. Thieves can sell stolen catalytic converters to recyclers for anywhere between $25 to $300 for a standard vehicle, and up to $1,400 for hybrid vehicles, as reported by the vehicle data company Carfax. The cost of repairing or replacing a stolen catalytic converter can be steep, with State Farm reporting an average repair cost of around $2,900. So far this year, State Farm has paid out approximately $41.7 million to customers for catalytic converter repairs and replacements. Additionally, due to a shortage of available replacement parts, repairs can take weeks to months to complete. Despite the positive decline in claims, automotive experts believe that the problem of catalytic converter thefts might be underreported for various reasons. Carmax, earlier this year, issued a warning stating that the issue could be more widespread than reported, as many car owners do not file insurance claims. Some drivers may not have full coverage on older vehicles or may not have insurance at all. Law enforcement agencies are taking action against catalytic converter thefts and targeting recyclers who do not follow proper protocols. In Los Angeles, the City Council passed an ordinance banning the possession of unattached catalytic converters unless the owner can provide a valid explanation or proof of ownership. Penalties for illegal possession may include jail time or significant fines. California remains at the top of the list for catalytic converter thefts, with over 5,400 claims filed and approximately $17.8 million paid out in the first six months of 2023. In 2022, California saw around 11,900 claims filed throughout the entire year. Below is the latest catalytic converter theft data provided by State Farm: Catalytic Converter Claims across the Country: – 2019: 2,500 claims, $4.7M paid, $1,900 per claim – 2020: 10k claims, $20.9M paid, $2,100 per claim – 2021: 32k claims, $73.7M paid, $2,300 per claim – 2022: 45k claims, $115.4M paid, $2,500 per claim – 2023: 14,500 claims, $41.7M paid, $2,900 per claim (first half of 2023 only) Catalytic Converter Claims in California Specifically: – 2019: 1,100 claims, $2.5M paid, $2,300 per claim – 2020: 4,500 claims, $11.3M paid, $2,500 per claim – 2021: 9,200 claims, $27.2M paid, $3,000 per claim – 2022: 11,900 claims, $37.7M paid, $3,200 per claim – 2023: 5,400 claims, $17.8M paid, $3,300 per claim (first 6 months of 2023) The top 10 states for catalytic converter thefts in the first half of 2023 are: 1. California 2. Texas 3. Illinois 4. Colorado 5. New York 6. Pennsylvania 7. Georgia 8. Minnesota 9. Florida 10. Washington While the number of claims is decreasing, vehicle owners are still advised to take preventative measures to minimize the risk of falling victim to catalytic converter thefts. Parking in well-lit areas or garages, when possible, can deter potential thieves. Another preventive measure is getting the vehicle identification number (VIN) etched onto the catalytic converter, which can discourage theft. Some local law enforcement agencies have also partnered with auto body shops to offer this service at a reduced cost. Additionally, vehicle owners are encouraged to review their insurance policies to ensure coverage for catalytic converter thefts.