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Last updated: 20 March 2026
Catalytic converter theft was once strongly linked to spikes in scrap prices — but the UK picture has evolved. In many areas, “cat theft” has fallen sharply since its peak, yet parts theft hasn’t disappeared, and vans can still be attractive targets because of their ground clearance and the tools criminals use to work quickly.
This update explains what’s changed, why vans are still at risk, and what to do to reduce the chance of a claim (and the disruption that comes with it).
What’s changed since the old “scrap metal spike” stories?
The big difference is that prevention and enforcement efforts have improved in many places, and theft patterns have shifted. Some reporting highlights dramatic reductions in catalytic converter theft in certain UK regions compared with peak years.
That doesn’t mean the risk is gone. It means you should treat catalytic converter theft as one part of a broader vehicle parts theft problem — and focus on slowing thieves down and reducing easy opportunities.
Why vans are still targeted
The Metropolitan Police notes that vehicles that sit high above the road are particularly vulnerable because the converter is easier to reach.
For many working vans, that “easy access” issue is compounded by:
- Predictable parking (same street/depot every night)
- Early/late work patterns (quiet streets)
- Thieves knowing trades vans may be unattended at jobs
Practical ways to reduce catalytic converter and parts theft
No single product guarantees protection. What works best is layering deterrence + delay.
1) Park to make access awkward
Police advice includes parking in well-lit, overlooked areas and positioning the vehicle so the converter can’t be easily reached. Practical examples: park close to a wall/fence on the exhaust side where possible, or in a locked compound if you have one.
2) Mark and register the converter
The Met recommends marking/registering the converter with a forensic marker to make it harder to dispose of.
3) Fit a guard/lock (and tell your insurer)
The RAC notes that guards/locks are available and advises declaring security features with your insurer and checking whether adding one might affect a future claim.
4) Don’t forget the basics
Good habits still matter: lock up, avoid leaving valuables visible, and use secure parking where you can.
If your catalytic converter is stolen: what to do
- Report it to the police and get a crime reference number (you’ll usually need it for insurance)
- Take photos (where safe) and document any extra damage (cut wiring, underbody damage)
- Contact your insurer and check:
- Your excess
- Courtesy van cover (if you need it to keep working)
- Whether the claim affects your no-claims position
- If your van is essential for work, ask the repairer about lead times and whether parts availability will delay repairs (downtime is often the biggest “cost” for trades)
How theft links to insurance costs (without the scare stories)
Even when a theft type falls in frequency, repair and theft-related costs still matter to insurers. The ABI’s latest releases highlight how high claims costs remain and how repairs are a major driver of payouts.
For van owners, the most practical response is to:
- Reduce your risk (security + parking + marking)
- Make sure your cover matches your working reality (tools cover, business use, overnight location, and security declarations)
Sources
- Metropolitan Police — Catalytic converter theft prevention advice (parking, high-clearance vulnerability, forensic marking): View source
- RAC — Catalytic converter theft: protection tips; note to declare guards/locks to insurer: View source
- ABI — 2025 motor claims payout update (claims-cost context): View source
- ABI — Claims costs/repairs and theft costs commentary (motor claims environment): View source
- Auto Express — Example reporting on sharp reductions in catalytic converter theft in some areas (trend context): View source
VanCompare Editorial Team
The VanCompare Editorial Team produces clear, practical guidance on UK van insurance and related topics. We work with FCA authorised insurance providers and use insurer information where relevant to explain cover in plain English and help drivers make informed decisions.
Where relevant, our content is checked against publicly available UK guidance and information from sources such as the FCA and GOV.UK to help keep it accurate and up to date.
This content is for general information only and is not financial advice.
