The cheapest non-DIY way to prevent Catalytic Converter theft?

Off-topic I guess, but: good comprehensive insurance (with low deductible) would be my approach. Especially in California. And with a near-new car. Aren't they targetting second-gen more, there's more precious metals in them?

Maybe verify the insurance first, then continue to armor-up?

 

Best way to prevent theft (apart from building a massive grinder / sawzall proof cage around it) is to seriously deep engrave your name & driver's license into it .... because salvage yards are onto thieves, & thieves know deep engraving will spoil their sale. If they try to grind out ownership, that's notification to the reseller that it was stolen.
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Regarding @hill 's suggestion, this search string turned up a lot of info:

where to engrave id info on a catalytic converter

Etching on catalytic converters helps to deter thieves | abc10.com

Above hit suggests license plate.

Another suggestions VIN.

 

And in California, due to regulations, it'll be another OEM CAT.

 

When I hear 'etching', it makes me think of the stencils-n-acid activities when you ask to have your VIN tidily added to your glass windows.

What I saw in the link above suggested more of a six-year-old with a Dremel and an engraving bit. Of which I already have all but the six-year-old.

 

@Raytheeagle bought an aftermarket theft shield for his Prime. They like make one for the Gen 4 too if the Prime one does not fit.

 

I got a cat shield from Cap City Muffler in Sac:

What did you do to your Prime today?

Haven't installed it yet, but that day is coming soon.

It'll deter .

 

You've got 2 converters.

There was a discussion on this recently. However, Gen 4 is less likely to be stolen than earlier models due to the design, with one of the converters tucked well away. I'd just make sure your insurance will cover it in the unlikely case that it's stolen.

 

Still alive if not kicking very high these days. I'll ask my wife for you.... She knows everything.

 

With your Mudworm picture..............don't you think "Cat" shield is the answer? LoL

 

I too, have a 2018 Prius III. I am also considering the Cat Shield. May I ask if you had one installed on your 2018? I just want to be able to sleep at night and not worry about getting hit. It's a daily occurrence in my area! Thx

 

Have Gen 4 PRIUS ever been targeted? My understanding is that it was ONLY old PRii - and that you almost have to remove the engine to get one out, and the other is much harder than Gen 2&3.

I'd be interested to hear if there ever has been a Gen 4 - and how they did it?

 

Have the converter and most of the exhaust painted with a bright orange very high temperature paint like this.

Place "catalytic converter engraved" stickers in the window, even if you don't engrave it.

 

Trouble is - you'd have to take the engine out to get to Paint the Gen 4 front converter.