NS 2004-2009 Prius is the “iconic” word that began to be applied to Toyota’s hybrid vehicle navigation device. While there’s been a Prius before, this one’s 55 mpg window stickers, distinctive kammback silhouette and soon, various celebrity images all make it subtly, luxury to be noticed.
And now, it seems, thieves are eyeing older Prius models — as well as all crossbred. Why? Simply put, it is the precious metal necessary for catalytic conversion, which includes platinum, rhodium and palladium, and higher amounts are needed for hybrid cats because of their emissions classifications and the frequent cold starts their engines need to generate. Supply chain fluctuations and correspondence demand for precious metals spikes has increased costs in some uncertain places, such as thieves can get as close to a catalytic converter as they can get from stealing the entire car.
Catalytic converter statement – HLDI, 11/2021
Theft rate for Prius models from that period is 40 times higher in 2020 than in 2016, with theft losses about 45 times higher per insured vehicle, Loss Data Institute says. highway noted last week. And according to the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB), catalytic converter thefts themselves increased from about 100 per month in 2018 to more than 1,200 per month in 2020. According to an update by the NICB since the beginning of the year, that spike happened near the end. of 2020 and it will likely continue well into 2021.
Catalytic converter theft – NICB, 3/2021
Prius theft complaints are highest in California, Oregon, and Washington, with overall complaint frequency increasing significantly between 2019 and 2020.
HLDI points to a scrap price of $1,022 for the 2004-2009 Prius, while the 2010-2015 third-generation Prius catalytic converter costs just $548, and for comparison, an F-150 FX-cat 4 2007 costs just $143.
Even if owners have comprehensive insurance, those who have their catalytic converters stolen will then need to pay a premium over the $3,000+ price tag for a replacement catalytic converter. .
2022 Honda Insight
Loose state rules are part of the problem the organization points to. Only some states require the buyer of such components to identify the seller; and despite its high value, the catalytic converter is not stamped with a vehicle identification number.
The NICB points out that the latest catalytic converters require more than the sought-after metals. So make sure you are protected for this type of theft. Invest in proper lighting and security. And, perhaps, consider making the hybrid the one you park in the garage.
