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Video: Top 15 cars targeted for catalytic converter theft in Minnesota

Apr 28, 2022 06:30AM ● By Editor

Watch the Fox 9 News Report here

Minnesota is offering help to stop the theft of catalytic converters.  Photo: Fox 9 News


By Hannah Flood from Fox 9 News • April 26, 2022

As part of a catalytic converter theft prevention program approved by the Minnesota State Legislature last year, state officials have released a list of the top 15 cars most targeted by catalytic converter thieves. 

According to the state’s catalytic converter pilot webpage, these are the 15 cars most targeted by thieves who steal catalytic converters: 

  • Chevrolet Express
  • Ford Econoline
  • Ford F250
  • Honda Accord
  • Honda CRV
  • Honda Element
  • Honda Odyssey
  • Hyundai Santa Fe
  • Hyundai Tucson
  • Kia Sportage
  • Mitsubishi Eclipse
  • Mitsubishi Lancer
  • Mitsubishi Outlander
  • Toyota Prius
  • Toyota Tundra

To try and curb the increase in these kinds of thefts, the state is offering free CATGAURD labels to vehicle owners. The CATGAURD label goes on to a catalytic converter and a fluid painted over the label creates a permanent etching on the converter once the car is turned on. 

The labels on the converters can be traced back to specific vehicles. The hope is that the labels will deter thefts and help law enforcement identify who’s stealing the converters. 

The labels are available at more than 90 locations across the metro ranging from police stations to car repair shops. Under state law, the labels must be installed at no cost to owners, but businesses can require another service, like an oil change, before they agree to install the label. 

Click here to find locations where you can get a CATGUARD label.