The theft of catalytic converters from Toyota Prius vehicles has been on the rise in recent years, due to a spike in demand for the precious metals found inside them. According to the Highway Loss Data Institute, theft claim frequency for 2004-09 Prius models in 2020 was more than 40 times higher than it was in 2016, with an overall theft losses rate of $137 per insured vehicle year—a more than 45-fold increase from 2016. Meanwhile, the National Insurance Crime Bureau reports that catalytic converter thefts have increased from approximately 100 a month in 2018 to more than 1,200 a month in 2020.

In California, the second-generation Prius, sold from 2004 to 2009, has become a prime target for catalytic converter theft, as its shoebox-like shape makes it easy for thieves to access the part. The average price for a low-cost catalytic converter is $700 to $950, with some models containing more precious metals than others.

Theft of catalytic converters is difficult to prevent, as the components are not stamped with vehicle identification numbers. However, bulk scrap buyers are now required to record sellers’ driver’s license numbers or other official identification, and many states prohibit cash payments above a certain threshold. Additionally, car owners can take steps to protect their vehicles, such as parking in well-lit, populated areas and installing vehicle immobilizers or well as alarms and early warning systems against theft. We specialize in such systems and can offer excellent solutions for Toyota Prius

Overall, catalytic converter theft from Toyota Prius vehicles has been on the rise in recent years, due to the high demand for the precious metals found inside them. Although it can be difficult to prevent, car owners can take steps to protect their vehicles from becoming targets.