Catalytic Converter Thefts More Than Tripled in 2021

Jan. 6, 2022

The report estimates there were 70,000 thefts in 2021, compared to 3,389 in 2019. 

Jan. 6, 2021—Catalytic converter thefts more than tripled in 2021 compared to 2020, a BeenVerified report has found. 

The number may be even larger as BeenVerified’s data is as recent as September. However, that number alone was more than triple all of 2020. The data analysis group estimates there were nearly 50,000 thefts through the end of September, a 244 percent increase and that number is likely closer to 70,000 for the full calendar year. By comparison, only 3,389 thefts were reported in 2019, according to the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB).

The top states for theft through September 30, 2021 were California (14,112 thefts), Texas (6,105), Washington (3,379), Minnesota (2,025) and Colorado (1,840).

About the Author

Ratchet+Wrench Staff Reporters

The Ratchet+Wrench staff reporters have a combined two-plus decades of journalism and mechanical repair experience.

Sponsored Recommendations

Valvoline Partner Solutions

We arm you with products that build trust, tools that unlock productivity, and training that drives business performance, so you feel confident in where your...

Grow the business you know

Enjoy the videos and music you love, upload original content, and share it all with friends, family, and the world on YouTube.

Solutions that drive results

Connect with Valvoline experts to increase operational efficiency and customer loyalty – from Valvoline-funded promotions to hands-on training, we’re here to...

Free Resources for Shops Like Yours

View insights, research and solutions curated specifically for shops like yours.