Hello all,
This is my first post.
So I was gifted a 2011 Camry SE since my mom can't drive anymore. I was wondering if anyone with a Camry had their Catalytic converter stolen.
I know the thieves go after hybrids, SUV's and I know why. Searching the internet on this topic gets nothing regarding Camrys.
I don't have room in the garage. I keep my driveway well lit, and park exhaust side next to a cable box.
So the main question is; should I spend money on theft deterrents?
How say you?

Thanks, Scott.

 

If someone wants your cars converter bad enough they will most likely get it. The site below has a few ideas on preventing theft.

https://heycar.co.uk/guides/best-way...onverter-theft

There are reports of Camry converters being stolen. The Camry converter may be less desirable as a target because the car sits lower to the ground and will need to be jacked up. You are heads up on parking your car in a way that makes it more challenging to get under. You want the theft to move onto other less challenging cars.

If stolen, an issue to consider is if you live in a state such as California, you will need to get a California approved replacement converter which can be very expensive compared to your non California replacement.

Not sure that converter guards work as thieves may be able to work around these.

Note that the Toyota Camry is in the top 10 of cars stolen in the US. Your geographical area may vary in what's cars as the most stolen.

If concerned about converter theft might investigate a car alarm system with a vibration and tilt sensor. Since typically thieves and passers by ignore alarms look into ones that have remote alert alarms or link to your phone.. This way YOU can react to the alarm signal as you may be the only one who reacts! This would also help with car theft.

For car theft might look into installing a kill switch for the fuel pump. A hidden switch that cuts off power to the pump. If one can't start the engine then it will need to be towed or carried which means more work. The internet has videos on installing fuel pump kills switches.

Bottom line is you want thieves to look elsewhere to steal and your on your own to prevent theft.

 

Thanks for the wealth of information Joey P.

Scott.

 

In answer to your question; YES, the back catalytic converter on our 2007 Camry Hybrid was stolen last week. The car was parked at Hampton Inn near the Seattle airport overnight, under a streetlight in full view. I've searched and the only protection device for Camrys appears to be the CatClamp which wouldn't protect the front converter. Converter thefts are becoming much more frequent lately, according to my insurance carrier and the muffler shop owner who did the repair. All vehicles are targets but hybrids especially as the exhaust system isn't used as much so they retain more of the valuable elements.

Greg
Spokane, WA