The most stolen parts of a car

By: Steven Brennan on December 6, 2023

Car theft has reached crisis levels in Canada, but it isn’t just vehicles that are getting outright stolen. It’s also becoming increasingly common for thieves to target specific parts for a quick and easy turnaround. 

Having a car part stolen can be dangerous as well as frustrating, not to mention expensive. And though a comprehensive insurance policy is the best protection against any kind of auto theft (or any other kind of non-collision damage beyond the driver’s control), knowing how these thieves target your vehicle — and what they look for — can help you put extra protections in place.

Catalytic Converters

A catalytic converter is an oblong-shaped pipe containing multiple catalytic filters and sensors that fits between the tailpipe and the engine. It significantly reduces the level of noise and emissions coming from the engine and is among the most targeted car parts. Removal is quick and easy, and catalytic converters contain precious metals like platinum, rhodium, and palladium. 

One catalytic converter can earn anywhere from $100 to $500 when scrapped. Plus, they can be removed with a battery-powered saw in a matter of minutes. 

Vehicles that sit higher off the ground, such as a Ford F150, are more susceptible to this kind of theft because access to the exhaust system is much easier. Hybrid models are also a target because their catalytic converters generally see much less use — This means less wear, leaving the precious metals inside in better condition. 

Replacing this part can cost anywhere between $1,500 and $3,000. Driving without one might be tempting, but doing so could lead to further damage to your car’s exhaust system — not to mention possibly damaging to your hearing.

Secure parking is the best protection against any form of car theft, particularly in this case. Failing that, a motion-sensitive remote alarm and parking that is well-lit at the very least are possible deterrents.

Tires and wheels

Custom rims and tires are an expensive addition for any vehicle. Crucially, they can be relatively easy to remove and resell on the market. High-end customized rims can easily cost $1,000 apiece. With such a high resale value, it’s no wonder thieves are interested.

You can take some simple steps to deter anyone from targeting your tires. Tire locks are a reliable option, and a must-have if you’ve got custom rims or tires. Short of getting a tire lock, you can also turn your wheels to a 45-degree angle tight to the curb when parking, which might be enough to dissuade a thief looking for an easy opportunity.

Tailgates

While tailgates are famous for being the heart of many American sporting events, there’s another more sinister reason why some gravitate towards these back flaps. Some vehicles, such as the Toyota Tacoma, are targeted for their easily removable tailgate. While it may seem like an odd part to steal, tailgates can be sold to scrap metal yards for several hundred dollars. Combine that handsome resale value with fast and simple removal, and you’ve got a perfect target for theft.

If you’re worried about your removable tailgate, you may want to look into a tailgate lock, which can be purchased and installed for around $100. In addition, you could back your car up against a tree, fence, or other immovable object to prevent the tailgate from being lowered.

Air bags

Air bags are another example of a car part that is all too easy for thieves to remove. Of course, it requires breaking into a vehicle, but the rewards can make it worth it for some criminals. Airbags usually retail for upwards of $7,00 and can be resold for a couple of hundred dollars or more. 

Steering wheel locks are an ideal security measure in this case, and can also prevent thieves from stealing your car outright.

Car batteries

Car batteries are also easy to remove and sell on for scrap, specifically for metals inside such as cobalt, lithium and nickel. Although batteries are nowhere near as valuable as catalytic converters, some thieves still target them due to the ease of removal.

You could try to prevent theft of your car battery by installing a motion-activated alarm under the hood. Typically, replacing a car battery is a maintenance issue, and wouldn’t be covered by insurance. However, most comprehensive policies will cover theft of a car battery.

Other frequent targets

In addition to these commonly targeted parts, there are other items inside your car that thieves will focus on. Any personal items of value, such as phones, laptops, cameras or jewellery should never be left in your car, even if out of sight. And although the theft of them won’t be covered by your auto insurance, they could fall under your home insurance policy.

On top of that, car thieves will also look for your vehicle and registration papers, which can be resold, as well as garage door openers, which could allow access directly to your home.

Get comprehensive coverage

While the levels of car theft across the country have accelerated significantly, there are proactive steps you can take to protect your vehicle and minimize the cost of any theft.  

Comprehensive insurance will cover the theft of items and other non-collision incidents, including damage caused by thieves, national disasters or falling objects. It also covers outright theft of your vehicle, providing the money for the replacement (or replacement value) of your vehicle as well as loss of use and other costly inconveniences that stem from the theft.

However, before making a claim on a stolen part, you’ll want to carefully weigh your deductible with the cost of replacement and repair. If the damage is close to, or below, your deductible, you’re better off paying for the repairs out of pocket to avoid any increases to your premium.

In all cases, prevention is much less of a hassle than having to deal with the headache of a missing part – make sure your car is always parked in a safe and secure location, locked, and containing no valuable items left unattended.

A comprehensive car insurance policy is the strongest form of defense against auto theft. Plus, by comparing car insurance quotes, you can get the best rate for the insurance that fits your needs.