Anyone heard of this before? Seems that thieves are after the Prius catalytic converters. Thieves targeting Prius catalytic converters: Roadshow iPhone ?
The article title says: Thieves love this Prius part, and the replacement can cost $5,000: The author says: "These converters cost about $2,500... " The author owns: "My mechanic says the Prius converters he has replaced were in models up to about 2011 (mine’s 2005)." Grant Din, Oakland replies "Repairs to each of the affected electric or hybrid vehicles can run $3,000 to $5,000." Never heard this on Prime.
Look for Gen2 forum for stolen CAT. My understanding is that in Gen2, CAT is over engineered to contain a lot of precious metals thieves are after. Not so much for Gen3 or Gen4? Besides, it seems to be a big problem in LA vicinity and London, but have not read problem in other areas. Stolen Cat Converter | PriusChat
This is more about the law in California, Maine, and New York than about Hybrids. The Califorina Air Resources Board has a list of approved aftermarket catalytic converters. (Other states do 'monkey see, monkey do') Aftermarket Catalytic Converters Some manufacturer goes through a long process to certify their part as legal in CA. No one has for the Prius. As such, the only way to be legal in CA (and ME or NY) is to buy a Toyota part, which is the front half of the exhaust. Toyota Prius Catalytic Converter (Front). Pipe, Exhaust. Engine, System, Intake - 1741021500 | Lewis Toyota, Topeka KS Anywhere else, cheap aftermarket cats exist. Evan Fischer RT96030003 | CarParts.com
It's been happening for many years especially in CA... especially on vehicles that have relatively high ground clearance. On many vehicles, just 4 bolts and the CAT is out! do not know how easy or difficult on Prime. On my 20 yr old Toyota Celica, I could not pass the smog check because the CAT was too old - COx % was over the threshold. I bought an aftermarket CARB approved CAT and installed for less than $300.
Catalytic converter theft: how to protect your car - Toyota Wonder if these locks or barriers are worth it?
It probably would take months before I realized it was missing unless exhaust components were dragging on the pavement. Gotta love EV mode.
I just came across this device to secure your catalytic converter: Catalytic Converter Protection - GetCatSecurity
Grant Din of Oakland is either ignorant or a thief if he thinks an electric vehicle has a catalytic converter.
I don't know but I'm not taking a chance: What did you do to your Prime today? Should be a good deterrent .
