Carfax representative Patrick Olsen stated that catalytic converter thefts in the United States are not slowing down: over the past year, criminals removed more than 137,000 such parts from vehicles, and in the early months of 2026, pickup trucks and SUVs were hit particularly often. This report comes from Carscoops.
A surge in these crimes began during the COVID-19 pandemic, when the precious metals in catalytic converters sharply increased in price. Since then, some prices have declined, but criminals’ interest has not waned. The most valuable metals for them are platinum, palladium, and rhodium. In March, an ounce of rhodium cost about $11,000, or roughly 820,000 rubles. Thieves most often target vehicles with high ground clearance. These models are easier to access without a jack and without making extra noise. The Ford F-150 led in the number of thefts. The list of most vulnerable vehicles includes the Hyundai Tucson, Ford Explorer, Ram 2500, Chevrolet Silverado, Chevrolet Traverse, Ram 3500, Ford EcoSport, Ford Expedition, and Chevrolet Trax.
According to Olsen, a typical catalytic converter nets a criminal between $25 and $300. A unit from a hybrid vehicle can bring in up to $1,400, as it contains more precious metals. For owners, the damage is far more severe. A new catalytic converter with installation costs up to $3,000, or about 224,000 rubles. Those without full insurance are hit especially hard.
About the Author
