California leads nation in skyrocketing number of catalytic converter thefts, data shows

Catalytic converter thefts are on the rise nationwide, and California has the doubtful honor of main the nation within the variety of converters stolen, based on latest knowledge.

State Farm launched its claims knowledge from 2021, which not solely reveals a 1,171% improve nationally in catalytic converter thefts since 2019 but additionally that auto elements theft usually has skyrocketed through the COVID-19 pandemic.

In line with its claims knowledge, State Farm says California ranks first within the nation for each auto elements thefts and catalytic converter thefts.

• In 2019, State Farm says it paid $2.5 million for 1,104 catalytic converter theft claims in California.
• In 2020, State Farm says it paid over $10.8 million for 4,507 catalytic converter theft claims in California.
• In 2021, State Farm says it paid over $23 million for 9,057 catalytic converter theft claims in California.

Catalytic converters, that are emissions management units situated beneath a automobile, limit carbon monoxide from popping out of a automobile’s tailpipe.

The converter comprises three worthwhile metals, together with platinum, rhodium and palladium.

Relying on its measurement, thieves can promote catalytic converters for lots of, even hundreds of {dollars}, based on the insurance coverage firm.  

To scale back the danger of auto elements being stolen, State Farm recommend parking inside a storage or well-lit space. If a automobile have to be parked in a driveway, take into account putting in movement sensor safety lights.