Five years ago, most drivers didn’t give much thought to their catalytic converter, but things have changed. This unassuming hunk of metals is now a hot commodity on the black market and a major concern for vehicle owners. If you’re concerned about keeping your Volvo XCX60’s cat safe, read on for all the info you’ll need—including which

car insurance

policy will keep you covered.

MORE:

How to lower Volvo XC60 insurance costs

Is it easy to steal the catalytic converter from a Volvo XC60?

The Volvo XC60 isn’t the easiest vehicle to steal a catalytic converter from, due to the cat not being located in the most accessible area in the vehicle. That said, it could still be done—and SUVs are popular targets for catalytic converter thieves.

Large trucks like the

Ford F150

are also frequently targeted by catalytic converter thieves since their high ground clearance makes it easy to get under the vehicle. High-value catalytic converters found in hybrids like the

Toyota Prius

are vulnerable as well.

What does the Volvo XC60 have in common with these? Well, it’s got the best of both SUV and hybrid worlds—which places its catalytic converter at a valuable price for thieves.

MORE:

Cars most targeted by catalytic converter thieves

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Why are Volvo XC60 catalytic converters stolen?

Catalytic converters reduce harmful emissions from your vehicle, and they’ve been required on every vehicle sold in the US since 1975. They work by filtering exhaust through a honeycomb-like mesh of precious metals like palladium, platinum, and rhodium.

These metals have become way more valuable in recent years, which makes this humble component of your exhaust system quite pricey! Here’s approximately what an ounce of each of these metals costs as of December 2022:

Palladium: $1,900 per ounce

Platinum: $1,095 per ounce

Rhodium: $19,000 per ounce

Keep in mind that a single catalytic converter contains significantly less than an ounce per metal. But since a catalytic converter can be stolen in just a few minutes, this can add up to some serious cash for savvy stealers.

Volvo catalytic converter replacement cost

Since they’re full of precious metals, you’d probably assume that these are also expensive parts to replace—and you’d be right. There’s some variation by model year and powertrain type, but RepairPal estimates that it costs around $2,100 to replace the catalytic converter on a Volvo XC60.

MORE:

How to fix a catalytic converter without replacing it

How to prevent catalytic converter theft from a Volvo XC60

Just because the Volvo XC60 isn’t one of the top targets for catalytic converter thieves doesn’t mean you're off the hook! Here are a few steps you can take to keep your Volvo safe:

Park in a secure area

This is good advice in general, but especially so when it comes to catalytic converter theft. Look for a well-lit garage with high visibility. Video surveillance is a plus! If you have to park in the driveway or the street at home, some motion sensor lights are a worthwhile investment.

MORE: How to tell if a parking garage is liable for a stolen or damaged vehicle

Install a catalytic converter anti-theft device

As catalytic converter theft became more of a problem, different types of anti-theft devices have become more readily available as well. Cages, clamps, straps, and shields are all options for keeping your cat safe and can be well worth the investment.

Volvo makes a

protecting plate

that fits XC60s from 2009 to 2016. There are also options like the

CatClamp

or the

CatStrap

, which work with most types of vehicles and can be installed fairly easily. If you do get an anti-theft device for your catalytic converter, make sure to let your insurance company know, as it might mean a discount on the cost of your comprehensive coverage!

MORE:

The best anti-theft devices to keep your vehicle safe

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Put your VIN on the catalytic converter

Remember in grade school when you had to write your name on all your belongings so no one would steal them? Well, some things never change. Having your VIN etched on your catalytic converter makes it harder to sell, and a thief might skip it for a less complicated target.

Some local law enforcement bureaus have VIN-etching events, but if there isn’t one in your area then a muffler shop should be able to get the job done as well.

MORE: How long do Volvos last?

Invest in comprehensive coverage

This isn’t a protective measure for your Volvo per se, as it won’t prevent an actual theft. But it will prevent your wallet from taking a big hit as far as the replacement goes. If you have

comprehensive insurance

, you’ll be able to file a claim for the replacement of your catalytic converter. Without it, the cost would be all on you.

And it’s not just catalytic converter theft that comprehensive insurance covers—things like graffiti,

hail damage

, and damages caused by some

natural disasters

are also a part of comprehensive coverage. It’s a wise policy to invest in, particularly if you have a newer Volvo XC60.

What to do if your Volvo XC60’s catalytic converter is stolen

If you are the hapless victim of catalytic converter theft, we offer our condolences. Calling the authorities is the first step you should take once you notice theft took place. Chances are there won't be much they can do, but there might be some security footage they can access. They can also file a police report, which will be needed for your next step: calling your insurance company.

If you have comprehensive coverage, here’s where it can come in handy. You’ll be able to file a claim for the theft—and depending on the cost of a new part and the amount of your deductible, it could save you quite a bit of money! Your insurance company can also help you to find a mechanic who can do the repairs.

If you don’t have comprehensive coverage, then it’s up to you to foot the bill for a replacement part. Make sure to get a few different quotes before you decide, as prices can vary between different mechanics.

MORE:

How to know if your catalytic converter was stolen

Can you drive a Volvo XC60 without a catalytic converter?

Here’s the thing: your Volvo will still be drivable without a catalytic converter, but it’s not a part that you can do without in the long run. For one thing, you’ll be polluting the planet a lot more—and there’s no way you’d pass an emissions test without one.

You’ll also notice that your ride is rougher and louder, and your acceleration may be affected. Last but not least, it might be illegal for you to drive a car without a catalytic converter. Depending on where you live, operating a vehicle without a catalytic may be against the law and could get you a ticket!

So while you can drive your Volvo XC60 without a catalytic converter, you definitely shouldn’t.

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