The catalytic converter on your Subaru is located underneath your car, making it easy for thieves to access—especially on models like the Forester and Outback that feature above-average ground clearance.

We’ve all probably heard the term “cat burglar,” but it’s recently taken on a new meaning. Instead of scaling buildings like a cat to get your stuff, today’s cat burglar is climbing under your car to steal your actual Cat! That is, your catalytic converter.

The National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) reported an explosion in catalytic converter thefts in 2021, and Subarus are on its list of top targets. Having your Cat stolen is not only a major inconvenience, but it can be very expensive to replace without the right

car insurance

. To help you prevent theft of your catalytic converter, we’ll help you find out where it’s located on your Subaru and what you can do to protect it.

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Where is the catalytic converter on a Subaru?

Different models and model years for Subaru place the catalytic converter in different locations, but they’re all part of your exhaust system located under your car between the engine and the muffler.

On models like the Subaru

BRZ

and

WRX

, this isn’t a huge deal. Not many thieves are capable of accomplishing the tight squeeze it requires to get under these low-slung cars. But keeping your Cat under wraps can be more challenging on Subaru’s many high-riding SUV models.

The

Subaru Forester

, in particular, is often targeted for catalytic converter theft because it has both a

high ground clearance

that makes it easier for thieves to access as well as a high concentration of Rhodium in the converter itself. This precious metal sells at a high price, so your Forester’s Cat looks like an easy payday to thieves.

What are the benefits of a catalytic converter on a Subaru?

Your Subaru’s catalytic converter is responsible for controlling your vehicle’s emissions. As fuel vapors left over from the engine’s internal combustion process flow through the catalyst chamber, the precious metals found there act as a catalyst to create a chemical reaction that converts these vapors into less harmful gasses, like steam and carbon dioxide.

So, while your Subaru can run without a catalytic converter, it won’t be able to pass emissions tests, and it won’t run as efficiently.

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How to protect the catalytic converter on your Subaru

Subaru Outbacks

and Foresters are among the

cars most targeted by catalytic converter thieves

, especially in the West and Northeast. That’s why it’s important to know what you can do to help protect your Subbie’s Cat, especially if you drive one of these two vehicles.

If you own any Subaru, but especially a 1998–2020 Subaru Forester or a 2007–2020 Subaru Outback, these are some steps you can take to deter Cat burglars:

Install an anti-theft device. Adding a

CatStrap™

CatClamp®

to your vehicle is a popular method of shielding your catalytic converter to at least make the process of theft more time-consuming and difficult. Adding another layer of protection with a car alarm doubles your protection.

Park your Subbie in a garage or a well-lit area. If you can, keep your Subbie securely locked in a garage whenever you’re not out and about. When that’s not an option, be sure you park in a well-lit area to make your vehicle a less-enticing target.

Put your VIN number on the catalytic converter. This might not stop a thief from stealing your Cat, but it can make it much more difficult for them to sell it later.

Make your Cat stand out. A great, cheap option to help deter Cat burglary is to select a high-heat (1,300 to 2,000 F) automatic exhaust spray paint in a bright color and use it to tag your catalytic converter. Whether you just paint a line or go ham with a cool design, auto parts stores and scrap yards aren’t supposed to buy these marked-up Cats.

Truthfully, no matter how hard you work to protect your Subaru’s catalytic converter, you may still wind up being a victim of catalytic converter theft. Adding

comprehensive coverage

to your car insurance policy can help you avoid spending thousands to repair your car after cat theft. Without it, you’ll be paying out-of-pocket for the full cost of a new catalytic converter.

What to do if your catalytic converter is stolen

If you

find your catalytic converter has been stolen

, there are a few things you’ll need to do:

Document the theft. Take pictures of your exhaust and the space where your converter should be.

File a police report

Submit an insurance claim

. This is only an option for those with comprehensive coverage.

Once your converter is replaced, consider taking one or more of the measures outlined earlier to help deter future thefts.

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When to replace the catalytic converter on a Subaru

Theft isn’t the only thing that can result in the need to replace your catalytic converter. Like most parts of a vehicle, your catalytic converter won’t last forever—it’ll probably need to be replaced after about 10 years. Here are some tell-tale signs that your Cat is ready for replacement:

Sluggish engine performance

Reduced acceleration

Dark exhaust smoke

Sulfur-smelling (rotten eggs) exhaust

Excessive heat under the vehicle

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s time to take your Subbie to a mechanic for diagnosis.

Luckily, even if you are noticing these symptoms, you may not have to replace your entire converter. Individual converter components can also be replaced, which will not only fix your problem but also cost much less than replacing the entire device. If you do need a full replacement, the average cost to replace a Subaru’s catalytic converter is between $900 and $3,000, depending on the model and year.

How to replace a catalytic converter

Removing a catalytic converter is pretty easy—especially when you don’t care about being able to put a new one on. But performing a catalytic converter replacement is a job best left to the pros. That said, if you have the tools and mechanic knowledge, you can, technically, make this into a DIY task. Just make sure you check the part number on your existing Cat to be sure you install the correct replacement.

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How to fix a catalytic converter without replacing it

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