Catalytic converter thefts in Calgary have tripled in two years, costing vehicle owners an estimated $18 million in replacement and insurance costs in 2025 alone, according to data from the Calgary Police Service and the Insurance Bureau of Canada.
CPS recorded 3,200 catalytic converter theft reports last year, up from 1,050 in 2023. Trucks and SUVs with higher ground clearance are the primary targets, as thieves can slide underneath and remove the converter with a battery-powered saw in under two minutes.
The precious metals inside — platinum, palladium, and rhodium — make converters worth $200 to $1,500 on the black market. Replacement costs for owners range from $1,500 to $4,000, plus the inconvenience and often weeks-long wait for parts.
"This is a crime of opportunity driven by commodity prices," said CPS Det. Mark Roberts. "A single converter can contain $500 worth of precious metals. When you can steal five in an hour, the economics are unfortunately attractive for criminals."
Prevention measures include aftermarket converter shields ($200-$500), engraving the VIN on the converter, parking in well-lit areas, and installing motion-activated cameras or alarms.
The theft epidemic has ripple effects on vehicle values. Buyers of used trucks and SUVs should verify that the catalytic converter is original and intact. FullVIN.com vehicle history reports can reveal insurance claims related to converter theft, helping buyers identify vehicles that may have had aftermarket replacements.
The city has expanded its free VIN-etching events and is working with scrap metal dealers to require identification and documentation for converter sales.
WestNet News crime and consumer reporting.
