All About Missouri’s Catalytic Converter Laws
All Missouri vehicles newer than 1981 need an EPA-approved catalytic converter securely attached.
Written by Samuel Todd
Reviewed by Jessica Barrett
Under
Missouri
law, all vehicles that are more recent than 1981 need to have an EPA-approved catalytic converter.Though you might not think about it every day, the catalytic converter is a crucial part of your car. It filters your exhaust to keep the air safe and clean—and even improves your fuel mileage! With a part that important, it’s no surprise that
catalytic converter theft
is skyrocketing.Compare insurance quotes from 50+ insurance companies with Jerry in under 45 seconds
Compare insurance quotes from 50+ insurance companies with Jerry in under 45 seconds
4.7/5 rating on the App Store | Trusted by 5+ million customers and 7 million cars4.7/5 app rating | Trusted by 5M+ driversDo I need a catalytic converter in Missouri?
Yes. According to Missouri’s
Code of State Regulations
, all vehicles 1981 or newer must have their OEM catalytic converter or an EPA-approved replacement. Missouri state law also requires that your catalytic converter is securely attached, not bypassed or modified, and has no leakage.Along with Missouri’s own laws, there are a few federal laws that you should be familiar with. In 1986, the EPA released a series of rules about catalytic converter replacement. Under federal law, your catalytic converter must be:
- In the same location as the original
- The same type as the original
- The correct model for your vehicle
- Properly installed
- Accompanied by the installer’s warranty information card
It’s important to keep in mind that your car will still function properly without a catalytic converter. So, if you’re the victim of catalytic converter theft, you can still drive your car—but you’re legally required to get it replaced as soon as you can!
Penalties for driving without a catalytic converter
If your catalytic converter was stolen and you’re caught driving without a replacement, you could face a fine of up to $250. On top of that, you’ll
fail emissions testing
, which could lead to increased penalties—so it’s best to get it replaced right away!If, on the other hand, you were the one who removed your converter, the penalties are much steeper. The maximum fine will be increased to $10,000, and you might have to watch out for additional state penalties.
At the end of the day, it’s crucial to keep your catalytic converter in good condition. It protects the environment, boosts your gas mileage, and allows you to steer clear of any fines or fees.
Why are catalytic converters being stolen?
Here’s the bottom line: catalytic converters contain valuable metals like platinum, rhodium, and palladium, so they’re worth a lot of money. Run-of-the-mill catalytic converters can be sold for up to $300, and hybrid converters can go for nearly $1,500!
The second problem for car owners? Catalytic converters are easy targets. Thieves can slide under a vehicle and remove the catalytic converter without too much trouble.
How to keep your catalytic converter safe
Thankfully, there are some ways you can fight back against catalytic converter theft! Here are three steps you should take:
- Equip an anti-theft device. If you install a metal cage around your converter, you’ll never have to worry about theft again. Sure, it costs about $300 to install—but that’s a bargain compared to a catalytic converter replacement, which will run you between $1,000and $2,500!
- Choose a safe parking space. Park in a well-lit area, preferably without much space around your car, to deter criminals.
- Engrave your catalytic converter with your license plate number. If a would-be thief sees your plate number (or Vehicle Identification Number) etched into your converter, they’ll probably leave you alone.
Is catalytic converter theft covered by insurance?
Despite your best efforts, you might still fall victim to catalytic converter theft. If that day comes, you’ll want to be sure that you’ve got comprehensive coverage, which will pay for the part’s replacement.
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FAQs
Are catalytic converters required by law?
Yes. Most states, including Missouri, require catalytic converters to pass emissions testing. On top of that, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has the power to fine people who drive without a catalytic converter.
Are catalytic converters being stolen?
Catalytic converters are being stolen—and at an unprecedented rate! In 2019, there were 3,389 reported thefts, but by 2020, that number had skyrocketed to 14,443. Use the tips above to keep your catalytic converter safe.
