The Lexus CT200h is an unassuming hybrid that shares a powertrain with one of the most frequent targets of catalytic converter thieves: the Toyota Prius. Even with a hot target of catalytic converter theft like the CT200h, you can take protective measures into your own hands like parking in a safe space or purchasing a safety device.
Still worried about getting your catalytic converter in your Lexus CT200h stolen? Your fears are valid. Catalytic converter theft is on the rise on a global scale—and here’s what you need to know (and the kind of car insurance
to get) to keep your Lexus safe! Is it easy to steal the catalytic converter from a Lexus CT200h?
Unfortunately, it’s not difficult to steal a catalytic converter from a Lexus CT 200h. While it may not be as high up as some popular targets like the Ford F-Series
or other large SUVs and trucks, thieves have gotten quite savvy at quickly jacking a car up to get at the catalytic converter. That’s especially true when it’s a high-value cat like the ones often found in the Lexus CT200h. Top Lexus CT200h years that catalytic converter thieves target
The Lexus CT200h was sold in the US from 2011 to 2017, and there doesn’t seem to be any particular year that is more or less of a target. Converters in Lexus SUVs like the Lexus RX
and Lexus NX
are frequently stolen as well, which is most likely due to a family resemblance. As a hybrid, the CT200h’s catalytic converter is of particular value as it has a higher concentration of the metals that thieves are after. The Lexus CT200h shares a powertrain with the Toyota Prius
, which is one of the top targets for catalytic converter theft—making it just as vulnerable to theft. Why are catalytic converters stolen?
What makes this lowly and grubby component of your Lexus CT200h’s exhaust system so valuable? Here’s the thing: underneath that unassuming metal case is a fine web of precious metals: palladium, platinum, and rhodium.
Chemical reactions between your car’s exhaust and these metals convert emissions to less harmful substances before they leave the tailpipe. In recent years, the cost of these metals has dramatically increased across the globe.
Here’s the approximate value for each metal as of December 2022:
Palladium: $1,900 per ounce
Platinum: $1,095 per ounce
Rhodium: $19,000 per ounce
Even though there is much less than an ounce of these in any one catalytic converter, a skilled thief can pinch one in a matter of a few minutes. This makes catalytic converter theft a lucrative business for those desperate enough to engage in it.
Lexus CT200h catalytic converter replacement cost
Since the metals in a catalytic converter are so expensive these days, that also means that it’s not a cheap part to replace. Estimates range from around $1,200 to $2,500 for a replacement catalytic converter for a Lexus CT200h. You might be able to get the cost down if you opt for an aftermarket brand of a catalytic converter or a rebuilt part, but that’s up to you.
How to prevent catalytic converter theft from your Lexus CT200h
With the rising popularity of catalytic converter theft, here are a few practical steps you can take to keep your Lexus CT200h safe from thieves:
Park in a secure area
If you’re away from home, try to park in secure and well-lit areas, like locked and monitored parking garages. If you don’t have a garage at home, installing some motion-detecting lights in your driveway is a good idea. Anything you can do to increase visibility is helpful, as it makes it harder for a thief to get the job done unseen.
MORE: How to tell if a parking garage is liable for a stolen or damaged vehicle
Buy a catalytic converter anti-theft device
As catalytic converter theft has become more of a problem, several anti-theft devices have hit the market.
MILLERCAT makes a stainless steel shield
that is made for the Lexus CT200h, and there are also devices like the CatStrap
and CatClamp
that work with most vehicles. These are generally several hundred dollars and may require professional installation, but it’s certainly less than the cost of a new catalytic converter! 
4.7/5 rating on the App Store | Trusted by 5+ million customers and 7 million cars4.7/5 app rating | Trusted by 5M+ drivers Etch your VIN on the catalytic converter
Having your VIN etched on your catalytic converter makes it more difficult to sell illegally, and it may make a thief move on to an easier target. Local law enforcement agencies sometimes have VIN-etching events, but you can also get it done at most muffler shops.
Invest in comprehensive insurance
This won’t keep someone from stealing your catalytic converter, but it will keep you from having to bear the full brunt of a replacement cost.
If you have comprehensive coverage
, you can submit a claim to get your catalytic converter replaced. And if the thief caused any collateral damage in the removal, that’s covered too. Without this policy, it would be entirely up to you to foot the bill for your repairs. What to do if your Lexus CT200h’s catalytic converter is stolen
If you find yourself being a sudden inductee into the club of catalytic converter theft victims, we’re sorry. The first thing you’ll want to do is call the appropriate authorities. They can document the theft, and depending on where you were when it happened, they might be able to get some security footage as well.
Make sure the police file a report because you’ll need it when you take the next step and contact your insurance company. If you have comprehensive coverage, you’ll be able to submit a claim for theft and replacement. Depending on the amount of your deductible and the cost of a new catalytic converter, it might be well worthwhile to submit a claim for it.
If you do submit a claim, then your insurance provider can help you to find a mechanic to do the repair work. If you don’t have comprehensive coverage or decide not to submit a claim, then it’ll be up to you to do the leg work of finding a repair shop. Make sure to get several quotes, as prices can vary quite a bit!
Can you drive a Lexus CT200h without a catalytic converter?
Technically, you can still drive your Lexus CT200h without a catalytic converter since the car can run without it. That being said, it’s not a good idea.
For starters, you’ll notice that your driving experience will be rougher and louder, and your acceleration might be a bit choppy. You’ll also be dispersing pollution wherever you go, and nobody wants that. There’s certainly no way you can pass emission testing without a catalytic converter, either. Some areas have laws that require all vehicles to have a working catalytic converter, so you might also get a ticket or fine!
Bottom line? Unless you’re headed straight to a nearby repair shop, driving without a catalytic converter is not something you want to do.
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