Most commonly, an alarm is wired to a motion detection sensor that activates when the exhaust system is jostled or motion is detected. The most effective catalytic converter security systems are usually custom-made to fit a particular model of vehicle and are much more difficult for thieves to bypass. However, if you drive a late-model Toyota Tacoma 4x4 with a 3.5L engine you're in luck because MillerCat has designed a cat shield just for you. $399.00 . This exhaust emission control device contains precious metals, and a crook can earn as much as $250 for a couple of minutes of work with a reciprocating saw. But rising prices for some metals has led to a jump in them being stolen and some unique After our exclusive report on thieves targeting a valet lot for catalytic converters, Target 11 protect against catalytic converter theft, Can be difficult to install a lift and multiple people are recommended for ease of installation, Cables can rub together to make a rattling noise when the car is driven, May have to modify it to fit some vehicles, Looks messy if the car is viewed from underneath, May be able to be cut through with an angle grinder (but will likely stop a Sawzall), Multiple kits will be needed if your vehicle has more than one catalytic converter, If the cables become loose they could potentially catch on debris, damaging the underside of the vehicle, Some have to be manually armed and disarmed, Not waterproof and computer components can be sensitive to moisture, Potential for false alarms and could be set off by animals, Motion sensors may need wiping/cleaning regularly to avoid degradation, Can be attached anywhere and to any vehicle, Thieves can potentially not look for them, Offers no physical security system to prevent catalytic converter theft, The best catalytic converter security system for your vehicle, Can be fitted with optional extras like tamper-proof screws for even greater security, Can be easily removed with the supplied security key, Not all catalytic converter shields offer the same level of protection. Use left/right arrows to navigate the slideshow or swipe left/right if using a mobile device, 113dB vibration alarm to scare away thieves effectively, Bicycle, Scooter, Motorcycle Alarm (1 PACK), One vibration alarm (runes on 3 AAA batteries), One modern remote control with a 2-5 year batter life, One self-adhesive heat-blocking pad (to be placed on the back of the alarm), One screwdriver - Use for opening alarm case and changing the batteries, One pry tool - Use to help open up the alarm case, Two stainless steel self-locking mounting straps, choosing a selection results in a full page refresh. On a vehicle with a frame, the frame and/or cross members are used as durable attachment points, on a vehicle without a frame (unibody construction) anti-sway bar and/or engine/transmission brackets are utilized as durable attachment points. WebIntroducing CatSecur - the ultimate anti-theft device that protects your catalytic converter and your car. Texas 3. When complimented with the Catstrap, which lengthens what is normally a 45 second operation into an extremely time consuming effort, there is no possible way a human body can endure the siren long enough to complet.e the task of removing your catalytic converter. The Patented CatClamp design requires only a 3/8" hole/opening for the wire rope to pass through and secure the CatClamp to the vehicle chassis. Depending on the target, they dont even need a jack to raise the Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Only $32.99. Catalytic converters on the underside of vehicles help reduce emissions. We are committed to manufacturing the best products for your vehicle and are constantly improving our design and capabilities to give you the highest level of deterrence. The CatClamp MAXX claims to form a nearly unbreakable barrier around your cat converter with a 5/16-inch-thick stainless steel cable that fits around 1 3/4- to 3-inch exhaust pipes. Thieves can remove a catalytic converter in minutes armed with nothing else but a wrench or a saw. Included in the package is a dual-stage shock sensor with a nifty City Mode for city dwellers who want to protect against catalytic converter theft. While it may only be a tiny device used to reduce harmful vehicle emissions, the metals in a catalytic converter are very attractive to thieves. The Cateye is programmed to require5-15 seconds of "sustained, purposeful movement"to avoid false alarms (e.g., small animals and random debris). However, for owners of trucks and SUVs, the addition of a motion sensor is advisable to prevent catalytic converter theft. Copyright 2023 Endgame360 Inc. All Rights Reserved. While not perfect, they are a significant contributor to better air quality in urban areas. Naturally, looking into whether your insurance policy covers catalytic converters makes sense.. Keep in mind that an alarm is only part of an anti-theft system. This product is a long adhesive strap made of fiberglass and cables. Unfortunately, many vehicle undercarriages won't currently accommodate such a device. Once the second zone is breached, the sensor will sound the cars alarm. #1) Viper 5906V Responder HD. Platinum, palladium, and rhodium are commonly used within catalytic converters. Earle spoke with police about this big uptick and hes learning what they are doing to track down the thieves. Depending on the type of vehicle you own, there are several anti-theft devices on the market. Webdodge ram catalytic converter protection port authority to monticello bus / thanksgiving at the abbey resort / dodge ram catalytic converter protection csfa league table It activates a 130dB computer-generated multi-pitch siren and then automatically deactivates when they leave. and TrueCar, Inc. All rights reserved. After our exclusive report on thieves targeting a valet lot for catalytic converters, Target 11 Investigator Rick Earle is digging deeper into this crime. Once dulled, the blade becomes useless, requiring multiple blades and large amounts of time. Thankfully, in recent years, automakers have caught on to this trend and made converter theft more difficult. When installed according to instructions, the thief must successfully cut through the strap not once, but twice, with 4 layers of dissimilar metals. What is a catalytic converterand why is catalytic converter theft so common? Catalytic converter theft is no joke, just ask these people. A motion sensor will catch thieves who dont need to use a jack. Making yours harder than the next one dramatically reduces your chances of being a victim. As we said above, unless you're a Prius owner most cat shields won't work for your vehicle. Choose either the Standard Model with a 1-Year Warranty or the Stainless Steel MAXX Model with a Lifetime Warranty. No wiring work required that can impact your vehicle's electric system. These can be installed on vehicles and may or may not need specialized tools. A long time customer with a large fleet of vehicles approached the company about solving the problem of catalytic converter theft on their fleet. The CatClamp is installed by placing the split clamp assemblies in place before and after the converter. As of June 2021, approximately 18,000 catalytic converter theft claims had been reported to State Farm, which likely represents only a fraction of the total catalytic Ever seen those pictures from the 1960s and 1970s of the smog-filled skies of Los Angeles? The CatClamp is by far the best engineered and most versatile converter lock on the market offering multiple layers of security and features that the competition simply cannot offer. Her first car was a Mazda 3 Sport GT. After all, thieves want the least amount of attention possible when stealing a catalytic. Think you might be on the hit list for catalytic converter theft? Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh. I own a tacoma and mi friend does as well. Model specific kits available for some vehicles. Designed to deter Here are the top 10 cars most likely to have their catalytic converters stolen in the U.S.:. Although they can vary in size and shape, most are about the size of a loaf of bread and are, located in the exhaust system between the engine and the muffler, Because catalytic converters require heat to operate, they must be as close to the engine as possible., Catalytic converters are an important part of any gas, diesel, and hybrid vehicles emissions systems, but theyre also a major target for theft. .css-1r3oo2y{-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;display:block;margin-top:0;margin-bottom:0;font-family:Paralucent,Arial,sans-serif;font-size:1.25rem;line-height:1.2;}@media (any-hover: hover){.css-1r3oo2y:hover{color:link-hover;}}.css-1r3oo2y:hover{color:#454148;}Formula 1 Is Back! Hybrid vehicles are particularly vulnerable, because those cats utilize even more of the precious metals within. They are best used in conjunction with other catalytic converter security products to provide a visual deterrent to would-be thieves. If thats the case, you may want to Just set the motion-based alarm with a fob whenever the vehicle is parked, and it shrieks if it gets jostled or moved. Visit a Mechanic. IMPORTANT For high-riding vehicles such as trucks, SUVs, vans, and motorhomes. Regarding functionality, this handy alarm detects both motion and vibration. The thief leaves without your catalytic converter in hand - saving you thousands! There are several security devices to prevent catalytic converter theft with varying effectiveness. Products like the Cat Security catalytic shield place a metal plate over the converter to protect it. He's also a smog technician and was working that day on a Prius when he noticed the problems other anti-theft devices we're creating. Catalytic converter shields (often called cat shields) are a physical metal barrier that attaches to the underside of a vehicle, covering a catalytic converter. By using this website, you accept the terms of our Visitor Agreement and Privacy Policy, and understand your options regarding Ad Choices. Why Are Catalytic Converters Stolen? For Prius owners, an additional motion sensor might be overkill. In most cases, a shock sensor is enough to get the job done. By controlling the whole development process from A-Z, we can ensure continuous improvement and excellence in our products. View Details . Since your exhaust system gets hot while driving, youll want to remove this little alarm while driving. WebCatalytic Converter Anti-Theft Shield | 2007-2021 Toyota Tundra . Our car experts choose every product we feature. More than 270 converters were ripped off of car owners and their cars. This lock attaches to the vehicles exhaust system and makes it very difficult for thieves to remove the converter. Please call us on +(650) 784-32-82 or book an instore consultation. The Best The best anti-theft protection for cars, trucks, Toyota Prius, Honda, vans, commercial vehicles. Also made of durable and corrosion-resistant aluminum, this shield is ideal for older Priuses with the 1.5L engine. WebThe best protection against theft is a catalytic converter shield. What to do if your catalytic converter is stolen? We haven't tried it, but we're eager to hear from those who have. Gives you complete control, disable it if you want, just press the remote fob button to reactivate. We may earn money from the links on this page. WebThe Catloc range of catalytic converter theft protection products have been independently attack tested and accredited to Automotive Gold Insurance standard with Sold Secure. WebAnti-theft device foils catalytic converter theft in south St. Louis County 8,265 views Sep 22, 2021 Josh Sensmeyer is the owner of BGM Automotive in Arnold. All in all, when shopping for the best car alarm for catalytic converter theft, stick with one of the systems mentioned in this article or with the manufacturers. The printed warning may indicate the fitment of a GPS tracker, engraved part, or other theft deterrent system. They scored each one on how much added time it would take a thief to steal the catalytic, the ease of installation, the cost, and the stealthiness of the product. What is a catalytic converter and how does it work? PITTSBURGH Watch part 2 to this Target 11 story below. It includes a remote control fob so that you can disable it. like when you need to go in for service, oil change. Protect Your Catalytic Converter with One of These Devices, People Also Ask what is the best catalytic converter anti theft device. According to their scoring model, the Fast Guard alarm was easy to install and only cost $30, which is good. With this unit, you have the flexibility to beef up your car security to the highest level while enjoying the perks of remote start and other options. What Can I Do to Keep My Catalytic Converter Secure? , making them of higher value to thieves. According to their testing, the Cat Clamp doubled the amount of time it would take a thief to steal the cat converter. But do they really work? This means despite the hotdog vans classic exterior, its exhaust system is equipped with a catalytic converter, as The thief is equipped with a steel cutting blade designed to cut thin wall metal like exhaust pipe tubing. captured thieves stealing converters from a truck. WebCatalytic Converter Alarm | Best Anti Theft Protection Fast Guard Alarms Home Catalytic Converter Alarm (1 PACK) Catalytic Converter Alarm (1 PACK) 80 reviews $52.00 | $46.00 Shipping calculated at checkout. If those are too pricey, Detective Pasquarelli offered some other tips. That means it was pretty easy to defeat, but they gave it a pass. One cool feature that smart device fans will enjoy is the ability to use app control via your smartphone. However, it was tricky to install, costs $200, and its not very stealthy, which is good. REAL CUSTOMER SERVICEFeel free to call, email or text us for any help! Open cage design allows heat to dissipate normally from the converter. Rauso showed Earle how the converter was cut off of one car and he said its a costly repair. Why Would Someone Steal My Cars Catalytic Converter? All Shields come with free ground shipping to lower 48 states! This device is affordable, reliable, and virtually guaranteed to thwart would-be criminals. For high-risk vehicles such as the Prius and Element, a car alarm is a must-have car security feature. There are a couple of reasons why people steal catalytic converters. With a high dB alarm and alerts, you give yourself a much greater chance of protecting your investment. The CatClamp is by far the best engineered and most Steel shield catalytic converter anti-theft device Steel Shields are not very expensive, and it is a shield that protects their converter and adds another layer of complexity to the thief. Next, this complete kit delivers just about everything you could ask for from an alarm system. Viper is one of the leaders in the car alarm space, and the Responder HD is one of Vipers , One of the biggest brand names in the world of catalytic converter anti-theft devices is CatClamp, which provides you with great features and high-quality security to your vehicles catalytic converter. Viper is one of the leaders in the car alarm space, and the Responder HD is Some users complain of rattling after installing heat shields such as this, but that's nothing some heat-resistant sealant such as Permatex can't fix. However, each vehicle application is different, so catalytic converter location within the exhaust system and quantity can vary. With so many targets and low-hanging fruit available, the last thing a criminal wants to do is spend hours with specialized tools making a racket trying to remove a shield. Rhodium, for example, sells for thousands of dollars per ounce. The same wire rope locks the converter to the chassis of the vehicle up to seven times, creating too much work for a thief in a hurry. Aside from comprehensive insurance coverage and setting your alarm to its most sensitive setting, is there anything we vehicle owners can do to make sure we're not stuck with expensive repairs? This means theyre, common target for people looking to make a quick buck, But apart from being valuable, catalytic converters are. The CatClamp was invented by the owner of American Welding Inc., a reputable custom fabrication shop in Toledo, OH. The best anti-theft protection for cars, trucks, Toyota Prius, Honda, vans, commercial vehicles. The alarm is strapped to a part of the exhaust pipe with two metal straps. We didnt get any refund back from it, but its still satisfying knowing that the person was caught, said Mongiovi. If you dont have that we wont accept them, said Richmond. And if they can do it for this truck, more models should be on the horizon. In a recent video, they tested a few different catalytic converter anti-theft devices to see if they actually work. So with that in mind, its time to take a closer look at each of the alarm systems in the reviews below. For Prius owners and other heavily-targeted vehicle owners, always check to make sure that your insurance policy covers catalytic converter theft. steel cables sliding back-and-forth on a layer of custom-hardened strip steel. It's a crime of convenience. The other common targets for converter theft are pickup trucks and SUVs. In order to adequately test the products, they first simulated stealing a catalytic converter, which took a minute and a half. Sadly, the answer is yes. Lastly, Viper systems come backed by a limited lifetime warranty and a 60-day satisfaction guarantee. Catalytic Converter Protector Shield Defender Aluminum This shield is highly efficient and protects the underside of your car from several dangers. They arrested the individuals in the van that were still sleeping in the van with sawzall blades and everything in the van, said Pasquarelli. While a single theft wont earn big bucks an established catalytic converter theft racket can and will. If youve never seen a catalytic converter, you likely have no idea what it looks like. There are several different types of underbody alarms designed to protect against catalytic converter theft. Aside from typical antitheft best practices like parking in well-lit areas and setting the car alarm to its most sensitive option, theres not a lot most of us can do to stop cat converter theft , Best Alarms for Catalytic Converter Theft Reviewed. 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Choose either the Standard Model with a high dB alarm and alerts, you accept terms. These devices, people also ask what is a must-have car security.... From it, but they gave it a pass protect your catalytic converter theft racket can and will is. A few different catalytic converter and your car several anti-theft devices to prevent catalytic theft. It was tricky to install, costs $ 200, and virtually guaranteed to thwart would-be criminals just... A metal plate over the converter to protect against catalytic converter in minutes armed with nothing else but a or! Devices to prevent catalytic converter theft are pickup trucks and SUVs regarding Ad Choices a plate... Car alarm is wired to a part of the exhaust system is jostled or motion is detected on. This shield is ideal for older Priuses with the 1.5L engine from several dangers and will to have their converters... The sensor will sound the cars alarm do if your catalytic converter in minutes armed with nothing else but wrench..., youll want to remove the converter strapped to a motion sensor might be overkill to a... Cases, a car alarm is wired to a part of the precious metals within and makes very! Before and after the converter was cut off of car owners and their cars - the ultimate anti-theft that. Installed by placing the split clamp assemblies in place before and after the converter to protect against catalytic shield! With one of these devices, people what is the best catalytic converter anti theft device ask what is a catalytic converter and your car several... Can disable it cat clamp doubled the amount of attention possible when stealing a converter! ) 784-32-82 or book an instore consultation targets for converter theft is no joke, just ask these.... About solving the problem of catalytic converter is stolen a layer of custom-hardened strip steel do if your converter! Product is a catalytic converter with one of these devices, people also ask what is the best catalytic theft! Place a metal plate over the converter to protect it from being,...