How to Prevent Catalytic Converter Theft in a GMC Sierra
If you don't want to lose the catalytic converter on your GMC Sierra, park it in a safe space and install a clamp.
Written by Jasmine Kanter
Reviewed by Brenna Swanston
Most GMC Sierra models are vulnerable to catalytic converter thieves, making a secure parking spot and an anti-theft device a must.
The venerable Sierra lineup extends from the 1990s to the present day, with the
2500
and 3500
being the latest additions. A Sierra EV is slated to join the market in 2024, but that's not what we're going to talk about today—electric vehicles don't have catalytic converters
, so they aren't a target for thieves.If you own a gasoline- or diesel-powered pickup truck, on the other hand, you need to know how to prevent catalytic converter theft in a GMC Sierra. Not only is the catalytic converter incredibly valuable, but it can also be easy to steal. A good parking spot, a trusty anti-theft device, and the right
car insurance
are a must.What’s a catalytic converter?
Catalytic converters filter most of the toxic chemicals from engine exhaust. They play a key role in preserving air quality, which is why they're required by law in every gasoline- and diesel-powered vehicle in the country. Unfortunately, they're also packed full of precious metals.
Catalytic converter thefts have soared in tandem with metal prices
—just take a look at the price per ounce of each of these minerals:- Platinum: $1,026
- Palladium: $1,850
- Rhodium: $12,700
Your catalytic converters aren't worth quite as much as a gold mine, but they could still fetch between $300 and $1,500 each. Don't count on prices to fall; it's best to know where your cat cons are located and how to protect them.
Is it easy to steal the catalytic converter from a GMC Sierra?
Yes. In brief, most models and production years of the GMC Sierra are vulnerable to catalytic converter thieves.
There have been quite a few trucks to wear the Sierra name over the years. From the classic
Chevrolet
Cs and Ks to the mislabeled Silverados
, whether or not your parts are safe depends on where your truck keeps its catalytic converters.The cat cons most at risk of being stolen are located on the underside of the truck between the engine and the muffler. It's easy for a thief to get underneath a vehicle (especially one with a
high ground clearance
) and cut the parts out with a saw. Some manufacturers have relocated their catalytic converters to the engine compartment, which is more secure, but this is quite rare for Sierras. There simply isn't enough room under the hood for so many heavy-duty parts, not when pick-ups are so heavy on emissions. Your Sierra probably carries at least two to four catalytic converters on its underside. Here's an exact number by year and model:
Generation | GMC Sierra 1500 | GMC Sierra 2500 | GMC Sierra 3500 |
|---|---|---|---|
First (1999-2006) | Two | Two to three | Two to three |
Second (2007-2013) | Two to three | Three | Three |
Third (2014-2018 (1500), 2015-2019 (2500, 3500)) | Three | Three | Three |
Fourth (2019-present (1500), 2020-present (2500,3500)) | One to three | Three | Three |
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Top GMC Sierra years that catalytic converter thieves target
Again, most GMC Sierra are at risk of being targeted by catalytic converter thieves. It's much easier to say which ones aren't. The latest generation of Sierras with the smallest available powertrain—a 2.7L four-cylinder engine—keeps at least one cat under the hood and away from thieves.
GMC Sierra catalytic converter replacement cost
Depending on the model year, a replacement catalytic converter for a GMC Sierra can cost over $2,800. Labor and taxes are extra. If you've had your cat stolen, consider replacing it with an aftermarket part; not only will it be cheaper, but it's also less likely to be stolen.
How to prevent catalytic converter theft in a GMC Sierra
The three things a thief needs to steal your truck's catalytic converters are a saw, an opportunity, and enough time. Here's how you can eliminate the last two.
Pick a secure parking spot
A safe parking space includes plenty of locks, lights, and surveillance, for security. If you can afford a private garage with all three, then you're set. If not, you could make do with some inexpensive motion-detecting flood lights and security cameras.
If you're trying to find a parking spot in a city, look for one underneath a streetlight and close to plenty of foot traffic.
Install a cat shield
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4.7/5 rating on the App Store | Trusted by 5+ million customers and 7 million cars4.7/5 app rating | Trusted by 5M+ driversPut your VIN on your catalytic converter
Thieves don't want catalytic converters with a vehicle identification number (VIN) scratched onto it. It'll be obvious to any junkyard dealer that the part was stolen, so they can't make any money off it. Check with your local police station or GMC dealer to see if they offer this service. The only problem is that a thief is unlikely to spot the engraved VIN before they've gone to the trouble of dismantling your exhaust.
What to do if your GMC Sierra’s catalytic converter is stolen
If you find out that your GMC Sierra's catalytic converters have been stolen, call the police right away. They'll need to search the area and examine security footage to find your parts, and every passing moment gives the thief more time to escape. Take some photos of the scene yourself, especially any damage to your car, because they could come in handy later.
How do you know if your car is missing a catalytic converter?
You probably won't notice a missing catalytic converter right away, but it'll become obvious once you start your engine. Without a cat, your truck is going to sound loud. Like,
really loud
.Can you drive without a catalytic converter?
Maybe, but it's risky. I don't know about you, but I wouldn't want to drive a truck that's just been hacked at with a saw. Other parts could be damaged or loosened, making a missing cat the least of your worries. You might want to pay the
tow cost
instead.File a car insurance claim
The last step is
to file a car insurance claim
. Submit any photos and the police report, if possible. Comprehensive car insurance
covers thefts and vandalism, so your provider should be in touch about getting your truck repaired—now aren't you glad you used a trustworthy insurance comparison app
to find full coverage for a great price?“Jerrywas easy to use, and they saved me a lot of money on my truck. I would definitely recommend them.” —Johannes T.
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