The Ford F-150 Is The Most Popular Target For Catalytic Converter Thieves

Ford F-150 owners may need to be a bit cautious because a recent study by CarFax shows that the popular pickup truck has become the primary target for catalytic converter thieves.

Why Are Catalytic Converters Being Stolen?

There has been an increase in criminals sawing off catalytic converters because many of the precious metals contained inside the devices can be worth hundreds (or even thousands) of dollars on the black market. According to CarFax, an estimated 153,000 catalytic converters were stolen in 2022 with many cases going unreported which is 2% higher than thefts committed in 2021.

Some of the metals found in catalytic converters include Platinum, which can be valued at $970 an ounce, Palladium, which can sell at $1,330 an ounce, and Rhodium, which fetches a high price tag of $10,000 an ounce.

What makes this crime even more fascinating is that literally, no vehicle is off-limits to thieves. They will target everything from privately-owned vehicles to those found on dealership lots. Even the famous Oscar-Mayer Weinermobile was a recent victim of this crime.

RELATED: Justice Department Cracks Down on $545 Million Dollar Catalytic Converter Theft Ring

Most Popular Vehicles of Catalytic Converter Theft

According to the study, the most targeted vehicle in the U.S. for catalytic converter thieves has remained to be the Ford F-150 since 2021. The Honda Accord also remained the second top-targeted vehicle. What is interesting is that many hybrid models are starting to be singled out by thieves like the Toyota Prius and Honda CR-V due to the metals in their catalytic converters being more potent because they don’t run as often.

1. Ford F-150
2. Honda Accord
3. Toyota Prius
4. Honda CR-V
5. Ford Explorer
6. Ford Econoline
7. Chevrolet Equinox
8. Chevrolet Silverado
9. Toyota Tacoma
10. Chevrolet Cruze

RELATED: Family Fends Off Catalytic Converter Thieves with Paintball Guns

How Will I Know If My Catalytic Converter Was Stolen?

Should your vehicle’s catalytic converter be stolen, it will let you know instantly because it is going to be very, very, loud. The device links your vehicle’s engine to your muffler. So if your catalytic converter were to go missing, some of the symptoms will include:

• Very loud noises
• Dark and smelly exhaust
• Acceleration feels sluggish
• Your “Check Engine” light will turn on
• Noticeable damage underneath your vehicle

In the event that your catalytic converter goes missing, you need to call the police, contact your insurance, and arrange a replacement for your vehicle immediately.