The number of catalytic converters stolen in the U.S. this past year is estimated to be as many as 153,000, according to an estimate from Carfax. Earlier projections peg the number of stolen catalytic converters at around 77,000. "Catalytic converters are valuable because of the precious metals in them, which fetch high prices on the black market," Rich Randazzo, president of Brownyard Claims Management, Inc., told PropertyCasualty360.com. "Additionally, the part is quickly and easily stolen, however, based on their placement it is not easily obvious when they are taken." For drivers with comprehensive auto insurance policies, a theft of this nature could be covered under clauses of the policy that cover non-accident related damages. The average cost to replace a catalytic converter ranges from $1,000-$3,000. Noting catalytic converter theft is a crime of opportunity, Sgt. Matt Casavant of the Maine State Police said in a release: "Parking lots — even ones that were well lit — were getting hit. Car dealerships are getting hit on a regular basis, too. My kid drives a Subaru and I won't let her leave her car overnight at the school or other places because it's a high-value target." The above slideshow offers details on the cars, trucks, vans and SUVs that are most targeted by catalytic converter thieves, according to Carfax. Related: |

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