Catalytic converter thefts have affected motorists for years. These emission control devices contain valuable precious metals, making them a target for criminals and leaving car owners with bills of more than $2,500 to replace the component. In 2024, approximately 14,000 converters were stolen, according to the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB). While brands like Toyota have made anti-theft devices available, more needs to be done. That’s where new anti-theft legislation comes in, and it’s just taken a meaningful step towards being signed into law.
Understanding the Preventing Auto Recycling Theft Act
Toyota
On February 10, new legislation to prevent thefts of catalytic converters in the U.S. moved from a Congressional subcommittee and will now go to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce, reports Automotive News. The Preventing Auto Recycling Theft Act, also known as the PART Act, will be at the center of reducing thefts and tracing stolen converters more effectively.
Under the PART Act, new vehicles must have the VIN stamped onto the converter, allowing law enforcement officers to link stolen parts to vehicles. For vehicles already on the road, a grant program will be established under the PART Act. This will allow repair shops or dealerships to mark catalytic converters with vehicle VINs at no cost to the owners. The theft, sale, known purchase, or trafficking of converters will incur a federal crime penalty of up to five years.
“The PART Act offers a practical solution to an issue impacting law enforcement, businesses and vehicle owners across the nation,” said Amy Wright, spokesperson for the National Automobile Dealers Association. She said this month’s vote “is a positive step forward. NADA remains committed to advocating for the bill’s passage in Congress and getting it to the president’s desk.”
Related: How To Prevent Thieves From Stealing Your Catalytic Converter
Commonly Targeted Vehicles
Toyota
Some vehicle types are targeted more often than others. According to data from Carfax, these models include the Ford F-Series, Honda Accord, Toyota Prius, Honda CR-V, and Ford Explorer. It’s no surprise, then, that Toyota specifically offers a dealer-installed catalytic converter anti-theft guard for the Prius hatchback.
There are many other aftermarket anti-theft devices available, and acquiring one will be far cheaper than replacing the converter, assuming such a theft isn’t covered by your insurance. You can also take special care not to park in dark places or to keep your car parked in a garage where possible. If you’re forced to park outside your home, installing cameras in the area could act as a deterrent.
What It Means
Cole Attisha
If introduced, the new Preventing Auto Recycling Theft Act promises to reduce catalytic converter thefts and make it easier to find perpetrators. What it won’t do is completely cut the risk of your vehicle’s converter being stolen, which is why car owners should take all reasonable measures to keep vehicles protected.
Beyond catalytic converters, other expensive car parts are increasingly targeted by thieves. LED headlight assemblies are also vulnerable, especially on high-end luxury models, while a wave of radar sensor thefts on modern Hondas was recently reported.
The PART Act could be the most significant federal action yet to address one of the costliest and most frustrating crimes faced by car owners.
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