Zurich claims data reflects soaring rates of catalytic converter thefts with Toyota hybrids top of the list

Leading insurer Zurich today reveals that claims for catalytic converters thefts across the UK have increased five-fold in just two years with repairs linked to claims costing customers an average of over £1,200.

The majority (78%) of converter thefts last year related to Honda, Toyota and Lexus hybrid vehicles. Zurich’s data reflects a nationwide problem with the Met’s motor vehicle crime unit reporting nearly 15,000 reports of such thefts investigated in 2020, compared to 9,500 over the previous year.

Thieves are targeting catalytic convertors for the precious metals they contain including rhodium and palladium which ‘clean’ the exhaust. Hybrid vehicles, which have grown in popularity, are proving attractive to thieves as they contain a higher concentration of these metals which are typically less corroded due to the dual electric and petrol/diesel fuel system.  

Meanwhile the value of rhodium and palladium has rocketed in recent years, driven by a surge in global demand with stricter emission rules and a focus upon sustainability.

Worryingly, the situation appears to have worsened during lockdown, due to the economic backdrop and as demand for these materials has intensified because of the pandemic’s impact on mining.  

Commenting on the data, Gillian Ferguson, Head of Motor Claims at Zurich said: “Our data does confirm a worrying trend which is likely to increase given the ongoing shift we’re seeing towards people buying less polluting hybrid vehicles.  

“We urge our customers to take safety precautions ideally parking cars in a locked garage or well-lit area and speak to their dealership for advice on approved alarms and other security measures they have developed to help curb the problem. Toyota for example has started a national catalytic converter marking programme having worked with police forces to help reduce this type of crime.”

Vehicle safety tips

• Park your car in a locked garage where possible, but if this isn’t an option, then park it in a well-lit and well-populated area
• Avoid parking your vehicle half on the pavement and half on the road, as this may make it easier for thieves to access the catalytic converter
• If your catalytic converter is bolted on, you can ask for your local garage to weld the bolts to make it more difficult to remove. 
• You can even purchase a ‘cage clamp’, which is a cage device that locks in around the converter to make it more difficult to remove. 
• Alternatively, you can mark your catalytic converter. Please ensure any property marking is Secured by Design approved (Police security initiative).
• Speak to your dealership about the possibility of installing a Thatcham approved alarm and tilt sensor that will activate the alarm should any thief try to jack the vehicle up to steal the converter  

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