Colorado issued stricter catalytic converter regulations in 2021. All vehicles must have an OEM or approved aftermarket catalytic converter that meets the standards under Regulation Number 20.

The catalytic converter is crucial for reducing the pollutants that are emitted from your car’s exhaust. Now, having a well-functioning catalytic converter is not only a benefit for emissions and mileage. It is regulated under Colorado law, backed by harsh penalties if you fail to comply. Unfortunately, catalytic converters are expensive and easy to access, making them prime targets for thieves.

So what are Colorado’s catalytic converter laws, what can you do to help protect your catalytic converter from theft, and how can you make sure your insurance will cover the replacement? The team behind

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Do I need a catalytic converter in Colorado?

Yes. Not only do you need a catalytic converter, but as of January 2021, your catalytic converter must also meet the standards set by the

California Air Resource Board (CARB)

Colorado adopted California’s stricter catalytic converter laws to help improve emissions. These laws are issued by the

Colorado Air Quality Control Commission

under

Regulation Number 20

The main points of these new regulations are:

All vehicles must have an OEM catalytic converter or an aftermarket converter that meets CARB standards

All vehicles that are under their emissions warranty must have an OEM catalytic converter

Vehicles over their emissions warranty can install a replacement aftermarket catalytic converter, only if it is exempted under Colorado Regulation 20

Used catalytic converters are prohibited from being installed, sold, or advertised. Only new OEM or approved aftermarket parts can be sold and installed

In addition to these new state-level regulations, there are some federal laws that you should know about. In 1986, the EPA released a set of laws relating to catalytic converter replacements. Under these regulations, your catalytic converter must be:

In the same location as the original

The same type as the original

The correct model for your vehicle

Installed correctly

Accompanied by the installer’s warranty card

Catalytic converters modify the emissions from your exhaust. If your catalytic converter is stolen your car will still run, so you can still drive it to the mechanic to sort out the replacement. You’re going to want to get it replaced as soon as possible because the penalties are steep.

Penalties for driving without a catalytic converter

If you are caught driving without a catalytic converter, the maximum fine is $47,357 per day for each day that you don’t replace it.

Even if you aren’t caught, you will fail emissions testing without a functioning catalytic converter, which can have penalties of its own.

MORE:

Car loan in Colorado 2022

Why are catalytic converters being stolen?

At this point, you’ve probably heard that catalytic converter theft has become a serious problem. The reason is, of course, because they are valuable parts. Catalytic converters contain valuable metals like platinum, rhodium, and palladium, and typical converters can be sold for up to $300. Hybrid converters can be sold for up to $1,500!

Of course, the resale value is only one part. You could make a lot of money selling transmissions as well. The other main issue is that catalytic converters are easily accessible. Thieves can quickly slide under your car and remove them without much hassle.

How to keep your catalytic converter safe

The good news is that you aren’t totally defenseless against catalytic converter thefts. Here are a few tactics you can employ to try to fight back against thieves:

Install an anti-theft device around your converter. This would cost you about $300 but could save you the $1,000 to $3,000 to replace a stolen converter.

Think about where you park. If you park in a well-lit area without much space around your car, it will make your car a much harder target.

Engrave your catalytic converter with your license plate number or VIN. This would identify your converter as stolen, probably deterring people from trying to steal and sell it.

MORE:

The best vehicle anti-theft devices to keep your car safe

Is catalytic converter theft covered by insurance?

Catalytic converter theft is covered under

comprehensive insurance

! Comprehensive insurance is always a recommended addition to your policy.

MORE:

All about comprehensive car insurance

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