Catalytic converter theft is plaguing the automotive industry, with a recent uptick causing Toyota to call for crime-busting legislation.

According to Autonews, vehicles that have had their converters stolen are filling up dealerships’ service departments. Depending on how much damage is done to the vehicle to get the converters out, the repair bill can be as high as $11,000 for some vehicles.

The National Insurance Crime Bureau reported 14,433 converter thefts in 2020 alone, a massive increase from just 3,389 thefts in 2019, and officials hinted that the number for 2021 would be even higher.

The top choices for converter thieves are the Toyota Tundra and Tacoma. These vehicles can have up to four catalytic converters per vehicle, and their high ride height makes it relatively easy to access the underside. In addition to the ease of theft, Toyota’s converters themselves have higher concentrations of precious metals than other brands. Other favorites include the Ford F-series, Ram 1500, and four-cylinder-powered Honda models.

Read More: Car Thefts Spiked In 2020, Catalytic Converters Also A Prime Target

The reason for the theft of the parts is the high amount of precious metal found inside. Rhodium, platinum, and palladium act as catalysts for the dirty air, helping to clean it as it exits the tailpipe, leading to reduced CO2 emissions.

The market price for an ounce of each metal is currently up to $16,600 for Rhodium, $919 for platinum, and $2,200 for palladium. As for complete converters, metal recyclers will pay up to $1,500 for a single converter, while a full set of four Toyota converters is currently bringing from $500 to $1,000.

Toyota Motor North America has called upon the automotive industry at large to work with police and legislators to devise a solution.

Could legislation solve the problem?

U.S. Rep. Jim Baird, R-Ind., introduced the Preventing Auto Recycling Thefts (PART) Act in January, which, if it passes, would require catalytic converters to be stamped with the VIN, in addition to setting up a record of converter buyers and codifying thefts as criminal offenses.

“This is a clean, straight-forward bill that has the potential to solve a serious problem plaguing far too many vehicle owners and law enforcement officials across the country,” Baird told Automotive News. Americans have enough to worry about,” he added. “Spending hundreds or even thousands of dollars replacing a required car part shouldn’t be one of them.”

This one’s closer than the spec sheet might lead you to believe it should be.

Khyzyl Saleem strikes back with a heavily modified Ford Focus RS, bearing references to the Mazda RX-7 tuned by RE Amemiya.

The Kia has a power advantage over the Audi – and it shows on the track.

The next generation of the Audi A4 could replace the sedan with a sexier and more practical Sportback bodystyle, leaving no room for an A5 Sportback in the lineup.

The one-off was created by an Italian bodyshop called PariS’5 GaraGe which is offering similar conversions priced at $20k.

Reports claim Alfa is plotting a two-seater inspired by the beautiful 1960’s 33 Stradale.

After 180,000 miles, this 2015 Toyota Camry’s engine block needs to be replaced .

Pickup trucks were the two most commonly stolen vehicles in 27 states.

Automakers are betting big on subscription services, even though consumers don’t seem willing to pay.

Production of the 2023MY Corvette only started on May 23 so it is quite a surprise to see one listed up for sale so soon.