In the Midwest, these cars are the most likely to have their catalytic converter stolen

(NEXSTAR) — Catalytic converter theft has increased more than 1,000% in recent years, and if you own a certain type of vehicle in the Midwest, you may be at greater risk than other drivers.

What vehicles are most likely to be targeted in the Midwest? Carfax found service records from over 60,000 dealerships for catalytic converter replacement. Using this data, the company learned which vehicles were the most targeted in each region.

Here are the cars whose catalytic converters are stolen the most in the Midwest:

• 1985-2021 Ford F-Series
• Jeep Patriot 2007-17
• 2011-17 Chrysler 200
• 2005-21 Chevrolet Equinox
• 2008-14 Dodge Avenger
• Ford Econoline 1990-2022
• 1997-2020 Honda CR-V
• Chevrolet Silverado 1999-2021
• Toyota Camry 1987-2019
• Honda Accord 1989-2020

In accordance with National Insurance Crime Bureaua non-profit trade association that tracks crimes reported by insurance companies, the number of thefts of catalytic converters increased by about 1,215% compared to 2019.

The main reason for this increase is the rapid increase in the value of precious metals in catalytic converters, which makes the parts more valuable to thieves. These metals are platinum, palladium and rhodium.

If a vehicle has had its catalytic converter stolen, owners will know when they hear a loud noise coming from the vehicle’s exhaust system. This can be a rude awakening for drivers, especially if they don’t have insurance that covers theft.

“If you don’t have full coverage or can’t get coverage, you’re going to pay out of pocket to replace (the converter),” said Christopher MacDonald, chief executive Maryland Motor Vehicle Theft Prevention Council.

McDonald offered advice to drivers trying to prevent catalytic converter theft:

• Park in well-lit areas
• Park in garages, not on driveways or streets
• Always keep an eye on where your car is parked

NICB said you can also install an anti-theft catalytic converter. Another good idea is to install motion sensors in driveways if you need to park there.

You can also have a mechanic engrave your car’s VIN on the converter and spray it with stick-on paint. Using this method, law enforcement agencies can track down converters, which in turn can help them catch thieves.