Get answers to some frequently asked questions about catalytic converters and insurance.
Your vehicle's catalytic converter plays an important role in reducing harmful emissions. But you may have heard of this small but mighty car component for an entirely different reason: theft. As catalytic converter thefts continue to rise, more and more Canadians are waking up to find this part missing from their vehicle. Noise aside, a stolen catalytic converter can be a headache to replace. Find out what makes catalytic converters a target for theft, and whether your insurance will cover a replacement in the article below.
What is a catalytic converter?
A catalytic converter is part of a vehicle's exhaust system. It makes toxic gases and other pollutants from a car's internal combustion engine less harmful to people and the environment.
Does every car have a catalytic converter?
Yes, all combustion engine vehicles are equipped with a catalytic converter. The only way to get around having a catalytic converter on your car is to drive a fully electric vehicle.
Why are catalytic converters being stolen?
The increasing value of the precious metals found inside catalytic converters, and the relative ease in which a catalytic converter can be stolen are two driving factors behind the rising number of catalytic converter thefts in Canada.
The metals inside your catalytic converter – platinum, rhodium, and palladium – are currently more valuable than gold1, making catalytic converters an attractive target for potential theft. Moreover, a catalytic converter can be stolen within minutes.2 Owners of SUVs and trucks are more likely to find their catalytic converters missing due to their higher ground clearance – and ultimately, easier access to the vehicle's exhaust system.
Does insurance cover catalytic converter theft?
Yes, in most cases your car insurance will cover catalytic converter theft if you have comprehensive, specified perils, or all perils coverage. Each of these insurance options include protection from non-driving related incidents, like vandalism, falling objects, weather-related damage, and theft – and generally will cover catalytic converter theft too.
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How can you prevent catalytic converter theft?
The following actions may help you prevent catalytic converter theft:
- Have a mechanic weld your catalytic converter to your vehicle so it's more difficult to remove.
- Invest in a protective clamp for your catalytic converter so that it's a less attractive target for theft.
- Install a vibrationally sensitive car alarm so that the alarm will sound if someone attempts to remove your catalytic converter.
In addition, you may want to consider engraving your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) onto your catalytic converter. While this won't prevent theft, it could help you identify your catalytic converter if it's stolen.
Read How to Prevent Car Theft for tips on how you could help ensure your car stays where you park it.
In the unfortunate event that your catalytic converter has been stolen, contact your local police station to file a report. If you're a TD Insurance customer and have comprehensive, specified perils, or all perils coverage on your insurance policy, you can file a claim from your phone using the TD Insurance Mobile App. Plus, you'll receive step-by-step guidance through the claims process and be able to track the status of your claim.
Log into MyInsurance to review your coverage. Or get a car insurance quote online.
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The content on this page is for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Coverages described herein may be subject to additional eligibility criteria, limitations and exclusions. In the event you make a claim, potential indemnification is also subject to the receivability of the claim and the type of coverage you bought.
In the case of conflict between the content on this page and your policy wordings, your policy wordings shall take precedence. Please speak to an Advisor or consult your policy wordings for further details.