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While catalytic converters have drastically reduced pollution, they've created a new problem for car owners since they are targeted by thieves.

If you own a vehicle built after 1975, it likely has a catalytic converter. The environmental pollution concerns of the '70s forced the American government to introduce a rule that all cars were required to have catalytic converters installed in the exhaust systems to turn toxic exhaust fumes into water, carbon dioxide, and nitrogen.

RELATED: 10 Cop Magnets That Are Sure To Get You A Ticket While catalytic converters have drastically reduced pollution, they've created a new problem for car owners since they are targeted by thieves. Catalytic converters can cost up to $1,000, and since they're fairly easy to steal, they've become prime targets for thieves looking to make a quick buck. With that in mind, let's explore some car models catalytic converter thieves target the most.

The F-Series is arguably Ford's greatest vehicle, as it has been the company's cash cow since its introduction. The F-Series offers a mix of practicality, affordability, reliability, and off-roading capabilities, which is why it has been one of the best-selling vehicles in the US for decades.

With tens of millions of F-Series trucks on the road, it's only logical that there's no shortage of them in repair shops waiting for catalytic converters. The F-Series also gives easy access to thieves due to its height, which is why it's important to take extra steps to protect its catalytic converter.

Introduced in 2011, the 200 is a mid-size sedan that Chrysler built to replace the much-maligned Sebring. The 200 was a big upgrade over the Sebring, as it looked better, was more comfortable, and had better performance figures.

The 200 was quite popular and was produced for two generations before being discontinued in 2017. Although it's been five years since the end of the 200's production, it's still popular among catalytic converter thieves. Z

In the late '90s, Chevrolet needed a new pickup truck to replace the popular C/K and set it up for a successful 21st century. After a few years of development, Chevy introduced the Silverado in 1999.

Like the C/K, the Silverado has grown tremendously in popularity and is currently among the most popular pickup trucks in the US. Unfortunately, like the F-Series, the Silverado makes a great target for catalytic converter thieves.

Hybrids are currently taking over the industry. Most models now have hybrid options, and some of the fastest supercars today are hybrids too. However, in 2001, the only hybrid you could buy was the Toyota Prius.

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The Prius was a controversial car when it debuted, largely thanks to its unusual design and hybrid drivetrain. Although many gearheads hated the Prius at first, it has grown on people, and it's now among the most popular Toyota models.

If you drive on any road in the US, you're likely to come across a few Toyota Camry models. Well, that's because this car has been selling like hotcakes for decades.

The Camry doesn't offer much driving excitement, but its practicality, affordability, and reliability have kept it on top of sales charts. With the Camry's popularity still strong, it's easy to see why crooks may target it.

The Honda CR-V was among the pioneers of the compact crossover SUV segment when it debuted in the late '90s. It has been among the best-selling Japanese cars in the US, and with the sixth-generation model set to debut next year, its popularity isn't fading any time soon.

Thanks to its popularity, the CR-V is often targeted by catalytic converter thieves. There are various products you can buy to shield your CR-V's catalytic converter from thieves, but your best bet would be to always park it in a secure location.

If you look through automotive history, you'll find plenty of awesome vehicles that have been in production for decades without too many people noticing. The Ford E-Series—or Econoline—is one such car.

The Econoline is a range of full-size vans that have been in production in some form or another since the '60s. The Econoline may not turn heads on the road, but it has been a practical workhorse for thousands of fleets across the country for decades. The Econoline is a great target for thieves since it's popular and doesn't usually go home with the owner.

Like the Toyota Camry, the Honda Accord is another Japanese sedan you'll never miss on American roads. Americans love its practicality, agility, fuel efficiency, and affordability.

RELATED: Here’s Everything You Need To Know Before Buying A Used Honda Accord

With millions of Honda Accords on American roads today, it's no surprise that it's a prime target for catalytic converter thieves. Thieves also love the Accord's catalytic converter, since it only needs a few minutes and a small reciprocating saw to steal.

In 2006, Jeep introduced two compact crossover SUVs to the world—the Compass and the Patriot. Both vehicles were based on the GS platform, but could be differentiated by their styling cues and the fact that the Patriot only offered a four-wheel-drive system.

Although the Patriot was discontinued in 2017, it was a huge success for Jeep, as it sold almost 2 million units in just 10 years. Most of them are still on the road today, which is why thieves are still after their catalytic converters.

When the compact crossover SUV market started heating up in the early 2000s, Chevrolet knew it couldn't be left behind. So in 2004, Chevy introduced the Equinox to capitalize on the demand.

The Equinox is still going strong today and is currently in its third generation after selling more than 3 million units. Unless you plan to get the upcoming electric version of the Equinox, make sure you take good care of its catalytic converter.

Martin is a seasoned content creator who has been writing about cars for over a decade, and has been in love with them for even longer. Growing up, Martin was surrounded by gearheads who instilled a deep love and understanding for cars in him at a young age. He loves to learn and write about all the developments happening in the auto industry - especially in the EV space. When he's not writing about cars, he likes to spend quality time with his wife, kids, and fur baby.