I hear the new wave of catalytic converter thieves are targeting hybrid cars. Is the one in RX400h easy to remove?

 

Just as on any other car. Cordless metal saw and some audacity at the right moment.

 

Sounds like I should install a metal plate.

 

If you park publicly then you’re at risk. All I can say is make sure you have Comprehensive insurance.

My old coworker had hers stolen in the middle of the day while her car was parked at her apartment complex. SUVs are an easy target.

Know another instance with an older Prius in a public parking garage while the owner was at work. Totaled the car.

 

Just found out they target hybrids specifically because the gas engines do not run as much. Makes the metals in the catalytic converter more valuable.

 

And Toyota just tightened replacement policies on cats. With vehicles now waiting for days and weeks for part to come in. Surprisingly, component that vehicle is fully driveable without.

The regulation requires that the sale of new OEM catalytic converters have data attached. It requires the business or individual installing the catalytic converter to show proof of theft and provide a VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) to purchase a replacement.

https://www.torquenews.com/8113/new-...rambling-parts

 

Catalytic converter thief killed when car falls on him

You Tube

 

Well, he volunteered for it.

 

The Houston PD advice: https://www.houstontx.gov/police/nr/...nr051321-2.htm
Spray with a high temperature bright paint the converter
Inscribe your VIN
Put a cage to deter.

Has anyone installed a cage and, in particular, used the Cat Clamp?

 

It is Nov. 2023, and still I have not found a cat shield or plate for a lexus rx400h.

My daughter's 2008 cat in Denver Colorado has been stolen twice (2x) now in broad daylight.

Hoping to find a solution!

 

Had mine stolen a few years ago on the 400h. They and sawed it off and gone under 2 mins. I caught it all on my camera. Cops not interest unless I was able to get their license plate. At 4am its hard to record it and even if I did its mostly stolen plates. I was lucky at the time there was not a shortage and i got a Bosal brand cat for $150 on amazon. And another $100 for the muffler shop to weld it in. I looked high and low but no plate covering available. I liked it was the cleanest look. They seem to have them for Prius and some trucks only. As of now i think cat clamp which is super pricey is only available besides painting it. I am tempted to put two parking bumpers parallel to the car where I can drive and park over to prevent access.