The Ford F-150 Is the Most Popular Catalytic Converter Target
Is your Ford F-150 running smoothly? Good, that means catalytic converter thieves haven’t successfully targeted your pickup truck yet. But that doesn’t exactly mean your vehicle is safe. The Ford F-150 is the largest target for catalytic converter theft.
Thieves steal catalytic converters from the Ford F-150, the most
Unfortunately, the Ford F-150 is the most popular truck when it comes to being targeted for theft. This might be because it’s the most popular truck, so more models are on the road. This could provide thieves with more opportunities.
Also, when it comes to staling catalytic converters, the F-150 sits high above the ground, making it easier for criminals to get under the vehicle. They can crawl under to get the catalytic converter out faster.
According to Ford Authority, service records indicate that the F-150 has faced more catalytic converter thefts more than any other vehicle for the past two years. Theft increased from about 52,000 units in 2021 to 153,000 in 2022. That’s a rampant increase.
Plus, by only using service records about catalytic converter replacements that account for defects, recalls, or old age, the actual numbers could be a lot higher.
Why do people steal F-150 catalytic converters?
People target the Ford F-150 for catalytic converters because they can escape them faster. With a battery-operated saw, thieves can slice through the exhaust system and take the converter in under 30 seconds.
But with all vehicles, taking a catalytic converter can lead to a substantial payday. Reselling them can provide between $300 to $1,400.
That’s if the converter is simply resold. Melting them down for precious metals like platinum, palladium, and rhodium. Thieves can get between $970 to $10,000 for just an ounce of these resources.
Scrap yards will typically purchase catalytic converters and then melt them down for a quick profit. This leaves tons of F-150 owners without their crucial anti-pollution device.
It can cost between $2,000 to $3,000 to replace the catalytic converter, leaving vehicle owners with an expensive headache. However, some comprehensive auto insurance plans cover catalytic converter theft and vehicle damage related to the process.
You can drive your Ford F-150 without the catalytic converter, but it’s not advised. Without it, your vehicle no longer filters or reduces harmful emissions that can end up in your home. It also causes your vehicle to be much louder with a jarring, uneven acceleration.
How to protect your F-150 from catalytic convert theft
You can take a few steps to protect your Ford F-150 from thieves. Be aware of your surroundings and park in a well-lit area at night. Being parked within range of home security cameras can be helpful too.
Also, make sure your alarm system is engaged. Vibrations caused by crawling under the vehicle or sawing through the exhaust can trigger the alarm and attract attention.
You can have a protective device installed that makes it impossible for thieves cut the catalytic converter out. While a high-quality anti-theft catalytic converter shield can cost a couple of hundred bucks to install, it can save thousands in the long run.
The Ford F-150 is also a popular target for headlights, taillights, wheels, and tailgates. People will pay a premium for these items because they’re expensive to replace and struggle with limited inventory.
Both F-150 sales and catalytic converter thefts aren’t slowing down, but you can protect your truck. Stay tuned for the latest updates.
