Is Catalytic Converter Theft Covered by Insurance With Geico?

Catalytic converter theft has surged in recent years as opportunistic criminals target these emission control devices to sell for scrap metal. Replacing a stolen catalytic converter can cost $1000 to $3000 or more. So does Geico insurance cover this type of theft under your auto policy?

The good news is that Geico does provide coverage if you have the right protection. Keep reading to learn what policy you need how the claims process works and tips to prevent becoming a victim of this crime in the first place.

What is a Catalytic Converter?

First, let’s review what a catalytic converter is and why thieves want them. The catalytic converter is part of a vehicle’s exhaust system, usually located underneath the car. It serves to reduce toxic emissions by converting pollutants into less harmful compounds.

Catalytic converters contain small amounts of precious metals like platinum, palladium, and rhodium that act as catalysts in the emissions conversion process. Thieves can saw off and remove converters quickly, then sell the rare metals to scrap yards for a few hundred dollars.

Replacing a stolen converter costs the vehicle owner far more, making this a lucrative criminal endeavor.

Is Catalytic Converter Theft Covered by Geico Insurance?

The good news is that Geico does provide coverage for stolen catalytic converters, as long as you have comprehensive coverage as part of your policy.

Comprehensive insurance covers damage from events like:

• Theft
• Vandalism
• Floods
• Fire
• Falling objects
• Animal collisions

So comprehensive coverage from Geico will pay for the following if your converter is stolen:

• Replacement part and labor
• Additional repairs caused by the theft
• Towing to a repair shop if needed
• Rental car reimbursement if repairs take multiple days

You will need to pay your comprehensive deductible, which is commonly $500 to $1,000. Geico covers eligible expenses beyond your deductible amount.

What If You Don’t Have Comprehensive Coverage?

If your Geico policy only includes liability and collision, you do not have coverage for catalytic converter theft.

Liability coverage pays for damage you cause others in an accident, while collision covers repairs from crashes. But neither of these standard coverages apply to criminal acts like theft. Without comprehensive insurance, you would have to pay the full replacement cost out-of-pocket.

That’s why it’s highly recommended you add comprehensive to your Geico policy. It provides protection from crimes like converter theft for just $150 to $300 extra per year for most drivers.

How Much Does Replacing a Stolen Converter Cost?

Replacement costs for a stolen catalytic converter typically range from $1,000 to $3,000. The specific repair bill can depend on:

• Your vehicle make and model
• Metals used in the converter
• Local labor and parts rates at repair shops

Luxury vehicles and hybrids like the Toyota Prius tend to have the most expensive catalytic converters due to their high precious metal content. Trucks and SUVs are also common targets due to their high ground clearance.

Having comprehensive insurance can save you thousands of dollars if you become a victim of this crime. Geico’s coverage offsets the high replacement cost so you aren’t stuck paying entirely out-of-pocket.

How to File a Geico Insurance Claim for a Stolen Catalytic Converter

If you discover your converter was stolen, follow these steps to file a claim with Geico:

• File a police report to document the crime
• Take photos of any damage caused by the thief
• Call Geico at 800-841-3000 to report the claim right away
• Get a repair estimate from a mechanic shop
• Provide Geico any documents they request, like police report and repair bills
• Have the converter replaced once Geico approves the claim
• Geico will reimburse the shop for total repairs minus your deductible

Reporting the theft promptly and providing complete documentation will help ensure you get paid for your claim.

Tips to Prevent Catalytic Converter Theft

While comprehensive insurance can ease the financial pain if a theft occurs, there are also some steps you can take to reduce the risk of becoming a victim:

• Install a converter anti-theft device or cage to block access
• Park in busy, well-lit areas rather than remote spots
• Have your VIN etched into the converter to deter thieves
• Upgrade your alarm system to detect vibration and movement
• Use a gas cap lock to make theft more difficult

These deterrents can help make your converter less appealing to would-be thieves. But comprehensive insurance still provides the best protection.

Is Comprehensive Coverage Worth the Cost?

Comprehensive insurance provides extensive protection beyond just covering catalytic converter theft. It also pays for damage from:

• Hitting a deer or other animal
• Hail storms
• Falling objects like tree branches
• Riots
• Forest fires
• Flooding

For just $150 to $300 per year on average, comprehensive coverage brings peace of mind against a wide range of threats out of your control. Most drivers find it a valuable addition to their policy.

How Can I Get the Cheapest Insurance Against Catalytic Converter Theft?

Here are some tips for getting the lowest rates on comprehensive coverage from Geico:

• Raise your deductible amount
• Bundle home and auto insurance policies
• Take a defensive driving course for a discount
• Pay your bill via auto-pay if it provides a discount
• Keep your credit score in excellent shape
• Compare quotes from other top insurers beyond Geico

Shopping around and comparing rates from several insurers is wise to find the best deal. Geico, State Farm, Allstate, and other leading carriers all offer protection against catalytic converter theft.

The Bottom Line: Catalytic Converter Theft Coverage with Geico

Catalytic converter theft is an unfortunate reality these days, often costing thousands for vehicle owners. Having comprehensive car insurance through Geico provides invaluable protection by covering the replacement cost when you make a claim, minus your deductible.

Comprehensive also safeguards against vandalism, storms, animal collisions, theft and more. For worry-free driving, it’s a smart investment at around $150-$300 per year. If you don’t currently have comprehensive coverage, contact a Geico agent to add it to your policy today.