How much does catalytic converter theft cost?
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Replacing a stolen catalytic converter typically costs $1,000 to $3,000 or more, and thieves can cut one out in under two minutes. The 2016-2023 Tacoma is one of the most frequently targeted trucks because its converters are easy to access. A bolt-on 12-gauge 304 stainless shield with tamper-resistant hardware costs about $200, roughly a tenth of one theft.
What is a catalytic converter shield?
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A catalytic converter shield is a metal guard that bolts under the vehicle over the catalytic converters so a thief cannot quickly cut them out. Cali Raised LED shields are 12-gauge 304 stainless steel with vent holes for heat and tamper-resistant security bolts.
Do catalytic converter shields work?
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They slow theft down rather than make it impossible. Removing security bolts and cutting through 12-gauge stainless takes time and makes noise, which is often enough for a thief to move on to an easier vehicle.
What are Cali Raised catalytic converter shields made from?
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The shield-only kits for the 2016-2023 Tacoma, 2010-2024 4Runner, 2022+ Tundra, 2007-2014 FJ Cruiser and 2024+ Lexus GX 550 are 12-gauge 304 brushed stainless steel in a bare finish. The cat shield and transmission skid plates for the 2024+ Tacoma and 2025+ 4Runner are 3/16-inch steel or 1/4-inch 5052 aluminum with a black powder coat.
Are Cali Raised catalytic converter shields bolt-on?
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Yes. They mount to factory locations with no drilling or welding. The one exception is the 2007-2014 FJ Cruiser, where the factory front skid plate has to be trimmed to clear the shield.
Is security hardware included?
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Yes. Every shield-only kit includes tamper-resistant security hardware and the security install tool. The 2024+ Tacoma cat shield and transmission skid plate installs with factory hardware plus Grade 8 hardware.
Will the shield work with skid plates?
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The shield-only kits work with factory, Cali Raised LED and most aftermarket skid plates; if you run an aftermarket transmission skid, remove it, install the shield, then reinstall the skid. The 2024+ Tacoma cat shield and transmission skid plate does not fit with the factory TRD skid plate, while the 2025+ 4Runner version is compatible with it.
Does the shield affect service access or maintenance?
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No. Cali Raised LED cat shields do not need to come off for oil changes or routine maintenance.
Is a catalytic converter shield worth it?
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For many Toyota owners, yes. A catalytic converter shield can help reduce theft risk and may cost far less than replacing a stolen catalytic converter.
Which Toyota vehicles do you offer catalytic converter shields for?
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Cali Raised LED makes catalytic converter protection for the 2016-2023 and 2024+ Toyota Tacoma, 2010-2024 and 2025+ 4Runner, 2022+ Tundra (non-hybrid), 2007-2014 FJ Cruiser and 2024+ Lexus GX 550. Check the fitment notes on each product for engine, transmission and hybrid requirements.
Can thieves cut through a catalytic converter shield?
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Yes. Given enough time and a battery-powered grinder, any shield can be cut, so no shield is theft-proof. Cali Raised shields are 12-gauge 304 stainless steel held on with tamper-resistant security hardware, which turns a quick, quiet cut into a slower, louder job, and that is often enough to send a thief to an easier target.
How much does it cost to have a catalytic converter shield installed?
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Cali Raised shields are built so most owners can install them at home and skip shop labor: they bolt to existing factory mounting points with no drilling or welding, and the security tool is included. The 2022+ Tundra shield takes about an hour with a 14 mm wrench and the 2024+ Lexus GX 550 shield about 20 to 30 minutes; if you would rather have a shop do it, ask them for a labor quote, since rates vary.
Which trucks will a Cali Raised cat shield not fit?
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Check the fitment notes before ordering: the 2016-2023 Tacoma shield fits V6 automatic trucks only (not manual transmissions), the 2010-2024 4Runner shield does not fit trucks that still have the factory X-REAS system, and the 2022+ Tundra shield does not fit i-FORCE MAX hybrids. On the 2007-2014 FJ Cruiser, the factory front skid plate has to be trimmed to clear the shield.
How does a cat shield handle catalytic converter heat?
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The Tacoma and 4Runner shields use a circular vent-hole pattern so converter heat can escape while the guard stays rigid. Do not paint or coat a Cali Raised cat shield, because catalytic converters run extremely hot; they ship in bare brushed stainless steel.
Do I have to remove my skid plates to install a cat shield?
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Only an aftermarket transmission skid plate: take it off, install the shield, then reinstall the skid. The shields use existing bolt holes (some factory pieces come off during the install) and are designed to work with factory, Cali Raised, and most aftermarket skid plates.
What warranty comes with a Cali Raised catalytic converter shield?
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Cali Raised LED branded products, including the cat shields, carry a 2-year limited warranty covering manufacturing defects. The shields are fabricated in-house in Fort Worth, Texas.