When you get out to sit in your car, it’s gone. It’s not your car, your GPS system, or even your phone. Your catalytic converter is the “it.” If you don’t notice it right away, you will as soon as you start your automobile. Here you will get all the information about how long it takes to steal a catalytic converter by thieves and the benefits they get after stealing such converters. In 1975, all new vehicles and trucks in the United States were required to have a catalytic converter, which converted dangerous pollutants into less harmful emissions before they exited the exhaust system. The catalyst is made of precious metals like platinum, palladium, rhodium, or gold. The converters can be sold to metal recyclers for $20-$200 depending on the metal utilized. As in the case of rhodium, the recyclers extract the metal and resale it for up to $6,000 per ounce. While national theft numbers for catalytic converter theft are not available, the crime has increased in lockstep with drastically rising metal prices. Depending on parts and labor costs, the unfortunate vehicle owner will have to pay $1,000 or more to have a replacement converter fitted. If the thief breaks the vehicle’s wiring or fuel line in the process, the vehicle may be rendered unsafe and repair costs will be much higher. You should be able to drive your vehicle if the thief steals your converter without causing any extra harm, but you’ll need to install a replacement converter as quickly as possible if the law still needs one. A quick Grab and Go processCatalytic converter theft can happen in broad daylight because catalytic converter thieves can steal them rapidly, frequently in less than two minutes. A wrench (for bolted-on converters) or a reciprocating saw is the only tools a thief requires (for converters that are welded in). A mechanic’s creeper is brought by some robbers. Then they simply slide under the vehicle, unscrew the nuts that keep the converter in place, and remove it. The unit can be stolen in a matter of minutes. Cat converters are frequently stolen from vehicles in driveways, strip malls, and parking garages. “Cars are exposed anywhere,” says Long Beach Police Department Detective Abram Yap. SUVs and trucks, particularly late-model Toyotas, are the most frequently struck vehicles since they sit higher off the ground (making entry simpler) and the nuts that attach the converter are easily removed. Nissans have also been targeted, according to Yap’s department. Why Thieves Steal Catalytic Converters?The catalytic converter is a component of the exhaust system of a vehicle. As they consume fuel, both gas and diesel engines produce gases. Rare elements such as palladium, platinum, and rhodium are used in catalytic converters to process and neutralize gases. These rare elements not only make the cat converter effective but also make it a prominent target for theft. A catalytic converter’s rare metals can sell for thousands of dollars per ounce. Thieves may steal catalytic converters in order to extract and sell the metals contained within them. In some circumstances, a burglar may wish to resell the component. Converters can retail for over a thousand dollars in various markets. Money making opportunity for thievesAn experienced burglar with an electric saw can steal your converter in less than 30 seconds. Used cat converters range in price from $25 to $1000+ at scrap yards, depending on the make and model. Convertibles found in Priuses and huge Ford vehicles contain more metals and attract far higher prices, making them more vulnerable to theft. However, many scrapyards now require vendors to show confirmation of identity when selling used converters, forcing crooks to find other ways to sell them. Here’s what happens to your converter after it’s taken in the criminal underworld:
Sign of catalytic converter theftIf your catalytic converter is missing, you’ll hear a loud rumbling or roaring sound as soon as you start the engine. When you step on the gas, this becomes louder. Because the exhaust system isn’t working properly, the vehicle drives rougher than usual, sputtering frequently as you change speeds. Examine the undercarriage at the back of the vehicle. The catalytic converter is a circular canister in the exhaust system that links two segments of piping. If the converter is missing, you’ll notice a large hole in the middle of your exhaust, as well as traces of piping being cut away.
from https://chicagoautohaus.com/how-long-does-it-take-to-steal-a-catalytic-converter/ Theft of catalytic converters from automobiles has increased dramatically during the pandemic, leading auto insurers to issue warnings as they process millions of claims and drivers to take notice and contact their insurance and repair. Several questions were raised in the mind of car owners about insurance covering stolen catalytic converters. Here we will answer them all and describe the insurance coverage of stolen converters. A cat converter is a part of your car that minimizes hazardous emissions. Since 1975, it has been a requirement for all gas-powered vehicles. On the underside of the car, this element is placed between the engine and the muffler. It comprises a metal-coated ceramic honeycomb (usually containing precious metals like platinum, rhodium, and palladium) that permits harmful compounds in the automotive exhaust to recombine and transform into safer gases. Carbon monoxide, for example, is a deadly gas that enters the converter, interacts with oxygen, and forms carbon dioxide. So, how can you tell if your cat converter was stolen? The most noticeable indicator is if your car sounds significantly louder than usual when you start it. Why? The noise is caused by a stolen catalytic converter that disconnects the muffler. Your automobile will also be less responsive and have less acceleration than usual. There may also be a stench from the filthy exhaust. All you have to do now is pull over to the side of the road and examine underneath the car for an evident hole near the muffler in the underside. Catalytic converter theft is growingThefts of catalytic converters surged by 325 percent in 20201, according to claims data reviewed by the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB). In 2019, the NICB received claims for 3,389 thefts, with 14,433 in 2020. Thefts of these parts are thought to be greatly under-reported, therefore these figures only reflect incidents where policyholders filed claims. According to 2021 claims statistics from State Farm Mutual Auto Insurance Co., the surge in stolen catalytic converters has been growing dramatically since the first year of the epidemic, even before the numbers for the full year of 2021 are in. According to State Farm’s claim research, catalytic converter theft increased by over 293 percent in the 12-month period from July 1, 2020, to June 30, 2021. State Farm paid out more than $33.7 million in the 12-month period after its press release in July 20212, compared to less than $9 million in the preceding 12-month period. The top U.S. vehicle insurer stated this summer that it paid out slightly more than $12 million in claims for catalytic converter theft in the second half of 2020. Despite this, State Farm paid moreover $21 million to cover them in the first six months of 2021. Will insurance cover catalytic converter theft?Catalytic converter theft is normally covered by comprehensive coverage on your auto insurance policy. Comprehensive coverage may cover the cost of replacing the stolen converter as well as any damage incurred as a result of its removal. Nonetheless, you should double-check your coverages with your existing insurance agent to ensure that you’re covered in the event of theft like this. Comprehensive insurance, despite its name, does not cover everything. Is catalytic converter theft covered by renters’ insurance?This one is a little more difficult. Your renters’ insurance will usually cover some aspects of car ownership but not others. Is catalytic converter theft included in this? Unfortunately, the answer is no. Renters insurance will cover you if your automobile or something in it is stolen, but not if the car itself is stolen. Stolen parts coverage may not be generatedit’s not like all auto insurance policies cover the theft of the cat converter, which has been required in all gas-powered cars since the 1975 model year to decrease dangerous emissions. A personal auto comprehensive insurance policy will cover this loss, as well as other parts thefts, flooding, damage caused by civil unrest, and other non-traffic accident losses, but owners must pay the deductible, which, depending on the car’s make and model, could be equal to or greater than the cost of the catalytic converter. “Drivers should contact their insurance to report the theft and choose the best course of action,” the NICB said. While driving insurance costs are often covered by insurance, they are simply one of several factors that influence insurance premiums. Theft, automobile type, driving record, years of driving experience, miles are driven, and other factors are all part of the insurance picture and play a role. While catalytic converter theft plays a part in the overall picture, it is only a small part of it. NICB spokesperson Tully Lehman stated. What should you do if your catalytic converter has been stolen?After you’ve discovered your catalytic converter has been stolen, do the following steps:
Expert advice on how to avoid theft and get compensated for stolen parts
from https://chicagoautohaus.com/does-insurance-cover-stolen-catalytic-converters/ catalytic converters theft is on the rise across the country. This antipollution equipment can be stolen in minutes and sold for hundreds of dollars to scrap metal dealers for the precious metals it comprises. Based on whether the cat converter is bolted or welded in, thieves often use a saw or wrench to remove it, and it can take as little as one minute. So, what can you do to avoid the theft of catalytic converters? Continue reading to learn more about what thieves may be looking for and how to protect your car. How to protect yourself from catalytic converter theft?1. Determine whether you’re a target of catalytic converter theft.Call a reputable local muffler shop and inquire about the cars that have been targeted in your region. They’ll tell you about adjacent vehicles that have been spotted in the shop for catalytic converter replacements, such as Ford pickups, Honda Elements, and Jeep Cherokees. The Prius seems to have a catalytic converter that holds more of the rhodium, palladium, and platinum that turn pollutants harmless as an ultra-low-emissions vehicle. Thieves frequently target trucks and SUVs because it is easier to crawl under the car rather than jack it up. The catalytic converter is sometimes unbolted, but more frequently than not, thieves just cut the connecting pipes with a battery-operated saw. 2. Secure your catalytic converter with an anti-theft device.It is far less expensive to purchase a cable locking device than to replace a cat converter. Such gadgets to safeguard the catalytic converter, which is part of the exhaust machine that functions along the bottom of your automobile, can be found on the internet. The cost of installing anti-theft equipment ranges from $250 to $800. Here are some of the most common gadgets:
Some muffler companies may custom weld a device like this to your vehicle. However, because the exhaust system is normally suspended from the car by sound-absorbing hangers, installing the catalytic converter directly to the frame can be noisy. 3. Apply a coat of paint to your catalytic converter.Some sites advocate painting your catalytic converter with a high-temperature neon orange paint similar to that used on barbecue grills and afterward inscribing your vehicle identification number on the painted surface. This makes it traceable, and a competent scrap metal dealer might refuse to buy it, at least in principle. 4. Install a burglar alarm or a security camera to catch thieves.You can improve the sensitivity of your security alarm so that it sounds when your car is jostled. That’s OK, but when your cat jumps on the car in the middle of the night, the alarm goes off. Other alarms are set to go off when the automobile is slanted, like when it’s jacked up. Placing a motion-sensitive dash cam can alert you to a pending theft and possibly film the getaway car’s license plate. We recommend getting motion-sensitive lights in addition to alarms and parking in your driveway or a closed garage whenever feasible. We also recommend getting to know your neighbors so you can spot outsiders lurking around parked cars. 5. Verify your auto insurance policy.Theft of motor parts is covered under comprehensive insurance. You’re insured, minus your deductible, if you have full coverage, which includes liability insurance as well as collision and comprehensive policies that repair or replace your own automobile. If you have a loan or a lease, it is usually required. If you have a car with a high risk of catalytic converter theft, you might want to reduce your deductible. You are not insured for theft if you merely have liability coverage. 6. Park near building entrances and in well-lit places.If your home has a garage, park your car inside and close the garage door. The idea is to make it more difficult for crooks to steal for a quick profit. If your automobile is parked in a garage, the perpetrator’s ability to get close to it is substantially reduced, preventing theft. Furthermore, lit places will prevent robbers. 7. Etch the ConvertorThieves can be deterred by etching your license plate number, driver’s license number, or phone number on your cat converter. You may either get an etcher for roughly $20 and perform it yourself or hire a mechanic to do it for you. Some law enforcement authorities will offer you free assistance with this etching.
from https://chicagoautohaus.com/how-can-i-stop-someone-from-stealing-my-catalytic-converter/ Thefts of catalytic converters have increased by nearly 400 percent since 2020! But why are thieves after it? Is it true that some car types are more vulnerable to theft than others? All of this and more can be found in the sections below. Catalytic converters have been stolen from automobiles, trucks, and buses at an alarming rate recently. The precious metals used to make these pollution control devices are extremely valuable. When we think of auto thieves, we normally think of them going for high-value, high-end luxury cars and SUVs that they can chop up and sell. We rarely consider criminals targeting “normal” cars unless they are looking for something inside the vehicle, such as a stereo, speaker system, or valuables that we have left behind by accident (and in plain sight). Nobody considers burglars targeting vehicles for the purpose of stealing exhaust components, particularly catalytic converters. Which Vehicles Are Most Frequently Targeted for Catalytic Converter Theft?About 26,000 cat converters got stolen in the United States alone between January and May 2021. This equates to 5200 catalytic converter thefts per month, a 122 percent raise over the already alarmingly high rate of theft in 2020. Criminals aren’t just getting down on their knees, slipping underneath any ordinary car, and yanking out the catalytic converter before fleeing into the night. No, according to studies, criminals appear to be concentrating their efforts on a small number of vehicles. They’re looking for these automobiles since it’s so simple to disconnect the catalytic converter in record time and get away with it (at least from their perspective). The most popular automobiles chosen for catalytic converter theft nowadays are listed below. ToyotaIn the United States, the Toyota Prius is the most commonly targeted vehicle for catalytic converter theft. There are a few reasons why thieves prefer this vehicle, but the most important is because it is so popular and there are several of them on the road. This familiarises thieves with the exhaust system, allowing them to rapidly dismantle the project and, with enough practice, get in and out with minimal time wasted and minimal extra tools. But there’s something else about this Toyota automobile that makes it such a tempting target for these criminals: it’s ecologically friendly! Because the gasoline engine in this hybrid isn’t used as frequently as a full-fledged gasoline vehicle, the catalytic converter suffers less damage. Because the cat converter does not have to work as hard, it lasts longer, which means there are more precious metals in the system. Other Toyota automobiles are also targeted by criminals in order to steal the catalytic converter. The Toyota 4Runner, Tacoma, and Tundra are all excellent choices.These vehicles are being targeted because of their excellent fuel economy (which helps to safeguard the catalytic converter when compared to other options) and their higher seating position. Thieves will have an easier time getting under the vehicle, stealing the cat converter, and fleeing quickly. LexusLexus vehicles are also popular targets, which should come as no surprise. After all, Lexus automobiles are simply premium versions of Toyota choices that are going off the assembly line. The Lexus SUV series is distinguished by vivid red bull’s-eyes on the exhaust system. Thieves enjoy ripping them open and stealing the cat con whenever they get the chance. HondaCatalytic converter thieves are also targeting Honda automobiles, particularly the Element and Accord. Researchers believe it has something to do with Honda automobiles’ general fuel economy and efficiency. These automobiles, like Toyota, have a reputation for not being gas guzzlers and for being much more environmentally friendly. As a result, the cat converters will not be as damaging as those on vehicles from other manufacturers. Honda cars, such as the Element and Accord, for example, offer significantly greater fuel efficiency than comparable Chevy and Ford vehicles. That indicates that, on average, cat converters in Honda vehicles are in better health (and contain more valuable metals) than those in Chevy and Ford vehicles. Late-model trucks and SUVs are preferred by thievesUltimately, because these are opportunity crimes, criminals are often eager to steal a catalytic converter from any late-model vehicle or SUV they come across. Late-model vehicles are chosen because catalytic converters have not been subjected to as much abuse as older vehicles. If you can find a vehicle or SUV that is fresh off the production line (or close to it), it will retain a significant amount of the precious metals inside. The reason they target trucks and SUVs is also something we discussed just a few moments ago. Because of the added height of these cars, they can work underneath the vehicle without having to use jacks, sliders, or a lot of other tools. They are usually able to go in and exit without being detected. Car Models with the Least Catalytic Converter TheftsCatalytic converter thieves target hybrid automobiles since the converters are in better condition because the cars emit fewer toxins. Because they did not have converters, all cars made before 1974 are the least likely to fall prey to converter thieves. The government, on the other hand, cleaned up the vehicles by mandating that all cars have converters. Cars with fewer valuable metals are less likely to have their converters stolen, but that doesn’t mean they won’t. Cars with bead catalytic converters, for example, fetch little to no money in the scrap yard and hence are unlikely to fall into the hands of criminals. Furthermore, because they are devoid of valuable metals, diesel converters are worthless. Aside from those vehicles, newer models, such as Honda’s 2015 Accord and Jazz, have their catalytic converters located inside the engine compartment, making them more difficult to steal. The least valuable converters are found in Ford, Chevy, Jeep, Dodge, Mazda, Nissan, Subaru, Hyundai, and Chrysler. Thieves may not consider stealing converters because they are worthless due to the lack of valuable metals. Although the chances of a thief removing the converters from these cars are slim, you should take care of your vehicle because you never know when a burglar might steal other automotive parts. Even when the price is low, all pickups and SUVs are vulnerable to converter theft; therefore, it is preferable to maintain these vehicles. Because electric cars do not release gaseous chemicals, they do not require catalytic converters. The car is recharged by plugging it into a power source, and it does not use diesel or fuel. Catalytic converters are not utilized in cars like the Audi E-Tron, BMW i3, Jaguar I-Pace, Kia Soul EV, Tesla models, and Volkswagen e-Golf, which are prevalent electric cars today.
from https://chicagoautohaus.com/which-cars-are-at-risk-of-catalytic-converter-theft/ While this has been going on for several years, the latest surge in catalytic converter theft could be due to the pandemic’s economic upheaval. Furthermore, the lower foot traffic during this time may make it easier for criminals who don’t want to be caught. A thief can see the cat converter out of your car in a matter of minutes, causing thousands of dollars in damage. Many people are unaware that your vehicle’s catalytic converter is the most valuable scrap component. These muffler-like devices are connected to the vehicle’s emissions control system. Because they include platinum, palladium, and rhodium, they have piqued the interest of thieves. These are the valuable metals that convert your vehicle’s dangerous exhaust into less damaging pollutants. Isn’t it surprising? Thousands of thousands of precious metals could be hidden beneath your automobile right now. They are considered a target for thieves. catalytic converter thefts are on the rise for a variety of reasons.
Catalytic Converters Most Frequently Stolen:Toyota Prius Hybrid The Toyota Prius Hybrid is the car with the most stolen catalytic converters. Since the premium metal loading inside these catalytic converters is so high, they are more valuable than regular converters. Thieves can sell converters for as much as $700 to unscrupulous purchasers. So, why does the Toyota Prius Converter so valuable, and why is it at the top of our list of stolen items? Because it frequently converts from gas to electric, this converter has a denser precious metal loading than conventional converters. Because the precious metals must compensate for the lack of heat activation, a higher precious metal loading is required. The Dodge Ram The Dodge Ram is a truck that was designed by Dodge. The cost of a converter replacement on a Dodge Ram 2500 is $3,460. This price indicates the number of precious metals in its converter, and it is on many crooks’ radars. The cat converter is more vulnerable in trucks than in cars because it is easier for a thief to get underneath and cut it off. The Ford F-150 The Ford F-150 is a pickup truck manufactured by Ford. In the United States, the Ford F-150 is the most popular truck. Because this is the most prevalent truck, catalytic converters are bound to be a popular target. The truck is not only high enough off the ground for someone to simply crawl beneath and cut the converter off, but the converters also provide a good return to the thief. A cat converter replacement for a Ford F-150 costs between $1,379 and $1,405. If you own a Ford F-150, you should be extremely wary of catalytic converter theft! Now that we know which converters are at risk, it’s time to figure out where these thefts are most common. It’s also worth noting that even if converter theft isn’t common in your neighborhood, it might still happen. What can be done to prevent the theft of catalytic converters?
from https://chicagoautohaus.com/how-much-is-a-stolen-catalytic-converter-worth/ The catalytic converter is more durable than most other components in your modern vehicle. Because it must sustain high operating temperatures, it must be robust. However, rust, physical damage, or engine performance issues can cause it to break down or fail. Your modern vehicle will almost certainly have a cat converter if it was built after 1975. A high-quality converter converts dangerous chemicals and toxic compounds into materials that are safe for the environment. Some people prefer not to use a catalytic converter because it reduces fuel efficiency. However, driving an automobile without a catalytic converter is unlawful. As a result, you might wonder, “Do I Really Need a Catalytic Converter?” Is it possible to drive an automobile without a catalytic converter? I’m not sure how long I’ll be able to drive without a cat converter. We’re here to help you with them, and in this article, we’ll try to address all of your questions. So read all the way to the end. Is it possible to drive an automobile without a catalytic converter?Do you intend to drive a vehicle without a cat converter? You can still drive your car if it doesn’t have a catalytic converter. It will not be difficult to drive your car without a catalytic converter. By lowering engine power, this converter helps to reduce pollution in the air. However, if you are discovered without this converter, you will be fined. The government takes things very seriously. So, if you drive with a faulty catalytic converter, do you still have to pay the penalties? The obvious response is no. You are not obligated to do so. Engineers are adopting cold air intake in current cars in addition to such converters to improve efficiency. Here are some of the reasons why you should use a catalytic converter when driving: Avoid Fines:A cat converter, on the other hand, is not something that your car can or cannot use. Rather, it’s a honeycomb-shaped device mounted on the lower side of your automobile that converts hazardous pollutants and harmful gases into water and carbon dioxide. To protect the environment from harmful emissions, this converter is required. If someone breaks this rule, they will be fined. Avoid Harmful Effects on the EnvironmentIt’s a world of difference between driving without a cat converter and driving with one that has been damaged or failed. There are a few catalytic converter symptoms that you may look for to see if your converter is damaged. It can be damaged because it is a mechanical device. Furthermore, a harmed cat will release more toxic compounds into the environment. As a result, the environment and human life will be harmed. As a result, if your car requires it, we recommend using a higher-quality catalytic converter such as Walker Catalytic Converter. Increase the engine’s lifespanFurthermore, if we consider the adverse effects on the environment as a result of a malfunctioning or damaged converter, the engine experiences excessive pressure. If the converter fails, becomes stuck, or clogs, the car will undoubtedly become trapped. It will be underpowered, and in the worst-case scenario, you will be unable to drive it. As a result, the engine will be damaged, and its lifespan will be reduced. Registration Cannot Be RenewedYour catalytic converter can be removed. The check engine light will be enabled if the converter is removed. The check Engine Light will be flickering on the dashboard. You will not be allowed to renew your car registration as a result of this since it will fail the emission test. According to your car model, we recommend using cat converters such as Magnaflow or DNA Motoring Catalytic Converters. Is a catalytic converter necessary?Yes, this converter is required; otherwise, manufacturers would not spend the extra money to create one. Catalytic converters could also be included as an optional component. Without this converter, your vehicle will not run efficiently. And as the days pass with a damaged or non-existent cat converter in the automobile, minor issues emerge. Typically, even minor issues result in engine failure, which can be costly to repair. Furthermore, a converter is required to eliminate harmful emissions and harmful gases. Is it safe to drive without a catalytic converter?Modern exhaust systems are complex, so you can’t expect ideal performance without a cat converter. Vehicles featuring the cat are designed to compensate for poor fuel efficiency, noise, and wideband performance. As a result, driving without a cat converter in your vehicle is not acceptable. Furthermore, relying on third-party exhaust systems is quickly becoming obsolete. Today, while third-party upgrades may improve specific areas, expect other components to degrade as a result. Furthermore, only skilled jobs, such as exhaust tuning for severe loads or other improvements, can make some parts work. When unprofessional alterations are made without proper calculations, the end result will be unsatisfactory and short-lived. Some advantages of not using catalytic convertersAlthough we recommend that you install cat converters in your vehicle, some people are against it. They are not, however, incorrect. The catalytic converter has some advantages, but it also has some disadvantages. Here are some of the catalytic converter’s disadvantages: Horsepower Issue:You can’t easily remove this converter from your car to gain extra power! Engine power is reduced by cat converters. In the engine, the catalytic converters create back-pressure. The engines have higher horsepower when the mufflers are removed. It lessens the negative impact of exhaust emissions. These gases will escape the engine, resulting in a faster rate of gas flow into the exhaust. Exhaust noises have the following effect:The cat converter works to lessen the influence of the engine’s emissions. As a result, the exhaust noises can be hushed as well as the catalytic converter. You’ll hear a near-zero, crisper, and more recognized exhaust tone after it’s gone. This can be a disadvantage for those who want a smoother ride, depending on the rider’s preferences. The temperature of the Running Engine:This converter adds to the engine’s workload. You can reduce the stress on the vehicle’s engine and discharge the exhaust at a faster rate without a cat converter. As a result, the engine’s operating temperature is low. The engine produces less vibration when it runs at a lower RPM. It also reduces corrosion on your vehicle and its components. Additional Fuel SourcesThe car’s catalytic converter allows it to run on only unleaded fuel. Synthetic fuel contains lead, which is harmful to some materials and hinders them from performing their functions. When you disassemble your car’s cat converter, you’ll have more fuel options. Certain high-efficiency fuels are still available on the market, and you can continue to use them. Issue of Better Mileage:The pressure on the engine is reduced when the cat converter is removed, and the engine may perform better. While the converter is already running, the engine would no longer have to run twice to generate the same amount of energy. You should expect a pleasant ride because the engine is under less stress. As a result, it helps to reduce fuel consumption and improve mileage. Wrap-upTo maintain your car road legal, replace a stolen, removed, or failed catalytic converter as soon as feasible. If you live in an area where emission inspections are required, make sure you update your cat converter, or you’ll fail the test. Furthermore, you may be found without a catalytic converter before your next smog check. If you don’t have a catalytic converter, you’ll be penalized, and your automobile will be confiscated, much like if you don’t have a license. In the meantime, you can read about how to get your automobile back from the impound with no registration. from https://chicagoautohaus.com/can-i-drive-my-car-without-a-catalytic-converter/ Perhaps you’ve suddenly noticed a strange odor coming from your car’s exhaust, or maybe your fuel efficiency has dropped significantly. Whatever the case may be, you’re counting and recounting the pennies in your piggy bank, thinking if the catalytic converter is to blame. Sadly, if you do need to repair your car’s catalytic converter, it will almost certainly be a pricey endeavor. How Do I Know If Something Is Wrong with My Catalytic Converter?There are a few indicators that your cat converter is failing; here’s what to check for: 1. Your vehicle failed its emissions inspection.Emissions testing is required of all car owners in various American states on a regular basis. Your automobile will likely generate more exhaust gases than it should if your cat converter isn’t working properly. 2. The Check Engine Light Is OnIf your catalytic converter fails, the oxygen sensor (also known as an o2 sensor) in your exhaust stream may transmit a signal to your ECU (engine control unit) alerting it to the problem. Your engine check light will illuminate, signalling that you should visit your local mechanic. Taking your automobile in for a diagnostics test is the only method to find out if the engine check light is connected to poor catalytic converter functioning. A mechanic will connect their diagnostics kit to your vehicle and scan the ECU for error codes before telling you what’s wrong. Though having your engine check light on isn’t always a sign that you have a bad cat, if you’re also experiencing one of the following symptoms, it could be… 3. Your Exhaust Smells Like a Rotten EggYour car’s fuel contains a small amount of Sufhur, and the stench of rotten eggs is generally caused by a chemical called hydrogen sulfide. Normally, this is transformed into odorless Sulfur dioxide, but this does not happen when the cat converter is malfunctioning. As a result, hydrogen sulfide escapes the exhaust pipe, giving off a rotten egg odor. 4. Your vehicle isn’t accelerating as quickly as it once was.An overabundance of carbon accumulation in the honeycomb architecture is one reason of catalytic converter failure. This can produce a partial blockage in the catalytic converter, which will affect the performance of your car. Airflow (together with fuel and ignition) is required for internal combustion engines to function. When the cat converter is clogged, it causes excessive back pressure in the exhaust system, which reduces airflow. Less airflow means less power, which means slower acceleration. So, if your automobile feels a little weak the next time you put your foot down to overtake, it could be the catalytic converter. 5. You’re Having Fuel Economy ProblemsBecause gas is so costly these days, even minor improvements in your car’s fuel economy can have a big impact on your wallet and at the pump. If your catalytic converter is clogged, your engine won’t get the airflow it needs to perform correctly, so it’ll have to work harder to produce the same amount of power, which means you’ll have to put in more fuel. It’s like running uphill; suddenly, you have to expend a lot more energy just to maintain the same speed and distance. How Much Does a Catalytic Converter Replacement Cost?Catalytic converter repairs do not have defined pricing; however, they might cost anywhere from $1,000 to $2,500. The cost of repairing a catalytic converter, like many other vehicle repairs, varies greatly based on a variety of factors, including: Model of Your VehicleIf you own a ’93 Toyota Corolla, your cat converter replacement will almost certainly be less expensive than if you own a ’05 Jaguar XK8. The unit itself could cost a few hundred dollars or several thousand dollars, depending on the type you have. The Replacement Unit’s QualityCatalytic converters are not all made equal. You may get a universal fit cat for under $100 or a direct fit device that is custom designed for your vehicle for over $1000. The interior design of a cat converter might also differ significantly. The usage of precious metals (palladium, platinum) as a catalyst is what makes them so expensive, which is why catalytic converters are frequently stolen. Cheaper units usually have a lower density of these particles, which makes them less efficient and more likely to fail quickly. More expensive units, on the other hand, have a higher catalyst density, frequently up to 6 times that of their less expensive counterparts. Labor CostsTypical labor expenses range from $70-$130 per hour, so a more budget-friendly garage can save you a lot of money on this repair. There’s also the time it takes to change the catalytic converter, which varies by vehicle. It all relies on the unit’s location, accessibility, and what your mechanic needs to replace it with. It’s possible that they’ll have to cut out the old, welded cat and clamp in a new one. This may entail twice the labor expense, as well as the cost of parts, on vehicles with twin exhaust systems! Other Issues Diagnosis and RepairYou should also evaluate the possibility that the catalytic converter failure was caused by something else wrong with the car. If your spark plugs have clogged or your oxygen sensor has failed, for example, you may be responsible for the expense of this repair. The Average Cost Of Replacing A Catalytic ConverterCat converter replacements normally cost between $1000 and $2500, depending on the cat quality you choose and, of course, the sort of car you possess. Is It Worth It to Replace A Catalytic Converter?It may not be worth changing the catalytic converter at all, depending on the value of your vehicle. We wouldn’t recommend driving around in a car with a defective cat, but you might decide that selling your car for scrap is a better option. Due to the rarity of converter failure, it is most likely the result of an underlying engine problem. Antifreeze or unburned fuel could be entering the exhaust system due to faulty seals or gaskets in the engine. Catalytic converter failure is a rare occurrence, but it is a highly expensive repair. Usually, a competent mechanic must replace the entire item, and the costs can quickly mount up to hundreds of dollars. This isn’t a great situation to cope with!
from https://chicagoautohaus.com/how-much-does-a-catalytic-converter-cost/ Since 1992, catalytic converters have been standard equipment on the majority of gasoline vehicles, and since 2001, on diesel vehicles. This small vehicle item has generated a tremendous crime wave in recent years. It seems to have a lot to do with the burgeoning precious metals market. These converter thefts have increased dramatically in recent years, according to insurance providers. People steal catalytic converters due to a variety of reasons which will be discussed here. What is a catalytic converter?By using chemical reactions, catalytic converters convert harmful substances in a car’s exhaust gases like carbon monoxide, nitric oxide, nitrogen dioxide, and hydrocarbons into less harmful chemicals like carbon dioxide and water vapour. Although the technology isn’t new and can be found in almost every automobile on the road today, there’s no reason why catalytic converters should be on the minds of most motorists. They work in the background, cleaning hazardous gases from your car’s exhaust emissions through chemical processes. There’s nothing to be concerned about unless yours breaks or as has become increasingly common in recent years, someone tries to steal it. The interior of the ‘cat’ is normally lined with a honeycomb structure, which is then coated with a catalyst – a substance that reacts with the exhaust gases and changes their chemical structure. Precious metals like as palladium, rhodium, and platinum are frequently utilised as catalysts, and these metals have intrinsic value, making them worthwhile to salvage and recycle when the car is scrapped. Catalytic converters, however, are a target for thieves because of these rich metals. Why do people steal catalytic converters?This is due to two basic causes. To begin with, stealing a catalytic converter is a pretty straightforward task requiring only a brazen disdain for the law and other people’s property, a jack, an angle grinder, and a few seconds of your time. Thieves can sneak beneath your truck or automobile in a matter of minutes, steal the cat converter, and then vanish without you even knowing they were there. Customers phone mechanics in Wilmington every day about replacing one, according to them. A customer had several catalytic converters theft in a single month, according to one witness. The criminals are after the platinum and rhodium contained within the part. The majority of catalytic converters on modern cars are placed beneath the vehicle, near the exhaust, making them easily accessible to thieves. In a matter of minutes, you can lift the back of a car and cut out the entire unit. Due to their higher ground clearance, SUVs are more vulnerable. This means such converter is easier to access, and these cat converters contain more precious metals due to the larger engines. What is the value of a catalytic converter?A few of the precious metals in your catalyst are more valuable than gold. A ceramic element coated in precious metals such as platinum, rhodium, and palladium is found inside a catalytic converter. This is what appeals to thieves: a cat converter can easily fetch C500 on the black market. Toyota is collaborating with law enforcement and talking to the government about changing the law on scrap metal sales to make it more difficult for criminals to sell stolen catalysts for cash. However, because these are criminal operations, Toyota’s options are limited. How do I protect my car against catalytic converter theft?Advancements in efficiency and technology indicate that the latest generations of Toyota catalytic converters contain substantially lower amounts of precious metals while still performing just as well or even better, their value for recycling is very limited and they are not attractive to thieves. It’s a serious problem, and while manufacturers are working to address it, it will take some time for these changes to trickle down to the cars you’re purchasing. To protect yourself from this catalytic converter theft, you can do one of three things.
from https://chicagoautohaus.com/why-do-people-steal-catalytic-converters/ |
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Autohaus is Chicago’s premier collision center, auto repair and customization shop located in Chicago’s Lincoln Park/Bucktown area. We are conveniently located to serve Chicago’s Gold Coast & North Side as well as the outlying Chicagoland area. Our full service auto repair shop prides itself on giving our clients the highest quality work and the absolute best in customer service. Archives
June 2017
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