(WWJ) – Officials say catalytic converter thefts are on the rise all across the country, and the Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services is offering Michiganders some tips to protect against these thefts.
DIFS Director Anita Fox says it’s important to take these steps, especially because the expensive damage caused by catalytic converter thefts may not be covered by auto insurance policies.
A catalytic converter is part of a vehicle’s exhaust system and often closely resembles a standard muffler. It is designed to remove pollutants from a car’s exhaust.
Catalytic converters are popular targets for thieves because they contain small amounts of rare and precious metals, including platinum. Officials say these thefts often occur in the middle of the night and can go undetected until the vehicle is started in the morning.
“Thieves can easily remove these expensive parts from cars and then sell them to recyclers for hundreds of dollars depending on the car’s make and model,” Fox said. “In addition to replacing the expensive converter itself, the damage caused by these thefts can be extensive and may cost as much as $3,000, or more, to repair. This will be covered by a comprehensive auto insurance policy but those who have not purchased this non-mandatory coverage may end up paying out of pocket for these repairs.”
The National Insurance Crime Bureau says there’s been a massive spike in catalytic converter thefts over the past few years. There were just under 1,300 thefts in 2018, and the following year saw an uptick to just under 3,400.
But thieves went wild in 2020, with more than 14,400 thefts reported -- about 11 times more thefts in a matter of two years.
There have been a number of thefts in Michigan in 2021, including a rash of thefts in Monroe County back in October and at least 12 buses in Detroit back in January.
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The NICB recommends consumers take the following steps to prevent against catalytic converter thefts:
• Install a catalytic converter anti-theft device. These are available from various manufacturers and can provide a level of security from theft.
• Park vehicles in a garage if possible.
• If vehicles must be parked in a driveway, consider installing motion sensor security lights. While lights may not provide complete security, it may make some thieves think twice, making them leave the area and your vehicle untouched.
• Call local law enforcement and your insurer should you become the victim of a catalytic converter theft.
DIFS officials are encouraging all drivers to review their policy documents or contact their insurance agent or company to understand their coverage before they experience a loss, so they can make sure they are financially protected.
In the event your catalytic converter is stolen, you should call your insurance agent or company to determine what coverage is available under your policy.
If you have questions or concerns with your insurance policy or wish to file a complaint, contact DIFS at 877-999-6442 Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Additional information about the auto insurance reform law, including the amnesty period that allows uninsured drivers to get penalty-free auto insurance if they apply for coverage before January 1, 2022, can be found at Michigan.gov/AutoInsurance. Frequently asked questions, tips for shopping for insurance, and an insurance locator to help find licensed agents are also available.
