RV Catalytic Converter Location & Theft Prevention Tips

Whether you have a Winnebago or Fleetwood RV, the RV catalytic converter location will always be underneath your recreational vehicle– somewhere between your van’s exhaust pipes and engine.

There are many factors that affect the exact location, though. But it’s always within your vehicle’s exhaust line. Keep on reading to learn how to find where the catalytic converter is located.

Locating the Catalytic Converter in an RV

Catalytic converters (CATs) help your RV balance out the toxic fumes produced by the engine as it converts carbon monoxide into water and carbon dioxide. Location-wise, it’s always good to assume that your catalytic converter is near the engine of your RV.

1. Class A-C Motorhomes

Class A, B, and C RVs usually have catalytic converters connected directly to the RV’s exhaust. And, depending on the size of your motorhome, you may have multiple catalytic converters installed as a standard.

2. Depending on Your RV Fuel Type

Based on fuel types, there are two variations of catalytic, whose location may also differ:

• If your RV is fueled by gasoline, your catalytic converter is closer to your engine.
• But if you have a diesel-powered recreational vehicle, the catalytic converter may be located further down the exhaust system, near the exhaust manifold.

3. Recreational Vehicles Without Engine

The purpose of a catalytic converter is to mitigate the production of carbon monoxide. RVs that are transported with the help of a tow vehicle, such as a fifth wheel or a travel trailer, do not have a catalytic converter.

So, you don’t have to worry about locating where this is, as these vehicles do not come with an engine that produces exhaust.

What Does the Catalyst Converter Look Like?

Now that you know where to find the catalytic converter in an RV, you may be wondering what a catalyst converter looks like.

An RV catalyst converter looks like a muffler, but its width is noticeably bigger than your RV’s exhaust pipes. It’s made from metal and can be flat, cylindrical, or in a honeycomb shape.

How to Protect Your RV’s Catalytic Converter From Theft

As mentioned, catalyst converters are made from metal. Some are even made from expensive metals, such as rhodium, palladium, and platinum. Thus, these RV components are usually one of the parts thieves target.

In fact, the US alone had over 64,000 thefts of catalytic converters in 2022, with Texas and California leading in these numbers. To avoid this, here are some precautionary measures to prevent catalytic converter theft.

1. Install a Metal Skid Plate

A metal skid plate is an additional piece of metal that you could attach with bolts underneath your vehicle. This acts as a buffer that makes it harder for thieves to wander and cut anything underneath your RV.

2. Have an Anti-theft Alarm and a Security Camera

Like how you would put an alarm for your cars and houses, an anti-theft alarm for your RV is also a good idea. Place one near your rig and have it trigger when someone touches your rig. The loud sounds can drive thieves away.

Other than that, you may also want to install a CCTV camera to spot any suspicious person going near your RV.

3. Always Leave Your RV in a Well-lit Parking Lot

This may be the most obvious safety precaution that you have to take note of, but it’s also the most important one. Do not park your RV in shady areas, especially if you’re not familiar with the place.

If possible, find a parking space that’s well-lit near streetlights. A secure and locked-in campsite is also a good place to park your recreational vehicle. As always, when you’re in doubt, don’t park there.

Conclusion

The RV catalytic converter location is always underneath the recreational vehicle, within the exhaust line. It may vary depending on some factors, but it will always be there.

It’s relatively easy to find because of its distinct shape, but you must also be cautious because thieves can effortlessly locate it.

Once you are able to locate it, we suggest you take the proper safety precautions as well for stress-free travel. Happy RVing!