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Are some models more prone to catalytic converter theft?

Discussion in 'Newbie Forum' started by screed, Sep 28, 2021.

  1. screed

    screed New Member

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    hi - I have a 2015 Prius-C and I'm wondering if some models or years are more prone to catalytic converter theft than others?

    The reason I'm asking is because I've looked at a couple of theft "preventative devices" but I'm not seeing the "C" listed.

    thx
     
  2. bisco

    bisco cookie crumbler

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    gen 2 has the most precious metals, but all are susceptible to some degree.

    it's a matter of risk tolerance, i'd like to think you have nothing to worry about, but i can't guarantee it.
     
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  3. Georgina Rudkus

    Georgina Rudkus Senior Member

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    Expensive replacement if an idiot saws through the engine preheater located behind the second catalytic converter. Prius c exhaust.jpg
     
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  4. Flowbee

    Flowbee Junior Member

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    New Prius owner here. I'll piggy back on this thread instead of making another so I get flamed less for reposting.

    I have a gen 2 and haven't had the tools to get under it and look at everything yet but..

    1. I've thought about a cat plate though the price of some are almost as much as replacing a stolen with a new aftermarket. Then I saw this guy's video and thought it was kind of clever



    NAPA sells exhaust U clamps for only $1.50 each. How many would I realistically need to cover the vulnerable cut areas? My Prius has 2 cats front and rear? Are thieves mainly cutting off the rear and not going for the one bolted up front? Or are they taking both?

    2. I bought a vibration alarm



    What's a good mounting spot for this where I could mount and remove by reaching under the car? Do thieves usually jack up the driver or passenger side? Maybe it doesn't matter if this is sensitive enough.
     
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  5. vvillovv

    vvillovv Senior Member

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  6. dig4dirt

    dig4dirt MoonGlow

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    as @bisco mentioned, all vehicles have some risk

    But that being said, never heard of a "c" cat being stolen.....have not researched that,
    but being that I own a "c" I have thought about it.
    I am not worried at all....esp in my area....which does have cat theft.

    I think Gen 2 has highest risk overall for a Prius.
    Gen 1 and 3 still have seen posts on PC forum
    But "c" again, never heard of it happening. I am sure it has been done tho.

    Hope this helps.
     
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  7. screed

    screed New Member

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    Is the alarm a stand-alone device and self-powered? There's so much vibration, is it only activated when the car is off? thx
     
  8. Krall

    Krall Member

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    Are the high mileage ones that are shot worth stealing?
     
  9. ABQBob

    ABQBob New Member

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  10. ABQBob

    ABQBob New Member

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    I have a 2012 Prius C and just had my catalytic converter stolen a few days ago while parked at a commuter rail station for 8 hours. They damaged the coolant lines as well. Found saw blade on the leaked puddle of fluids. $3600 to fix. Luckily insurance will cover ( with $500 deductible). Trying to figure out what to do to keep this from happening again. I am worried it will happen again.
     
  11. vvillovv

    vvillovv Senior Member

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  12. Doug McC

    Doug McC Active Member

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    Yep, the ones parked where thieves feel safe.