CARFAX Data Shows 137,000 Converter Thefts and Rhodium at $11,000/oz
SPGI•CARFAX, part of S&P Global Mobility, reports over 137,000 catalytic converters stolen in 2025 with continued thefts in early 2026 targeting pickups and SUVs for valuable metals; rhodium prices doubled to $11,000/oz in March, driving replacement costs up to $3,000 per incident.
1. Surge in catalytic converter thefts
CARFAX, a division of S&P Global Mobility, estimates over 137,000 catalytic converters were stolen in 2025, with thousands more taken in early 2026. Thieves favor pickup trucks and SUVs like the Ford F-150 and Chevrolet Silverado, exploiting their higher ground clearance for quick removals.
2. Precious metal price surge
Rhodium prices have more than doubled year-over-year, reaching about $11,000 per ounce in March, though still well below the $30,000 peak in 2021. Standard converters fetch $25–$300 on the secondary market, while hybrid vehicle units can sell for up to $1,400 due to higher metal content.
3. Impact on motorists and repairs
Victims face replacement bills up to $3,000 if uninsured, as catalytic converter removal and installation require specialized service. Law enforcement advises parking in locked garages, installing motion-sensor lighting, and adding physical locks or cages around converters to deter thieves.
4. Implications for S&P Global Mobility services
The uptick in converter thefts may bolster demand for CARFAX’s vehicle history reports and parts valuation tools, enhancing S&P Global Mobility’s data analytics offerings. The trend highlights growing opportunities in tracking emission-control devices and supporting aftermarket security solutions.
