Key Takeaways
- 5.0L Coyote V8: 4 catalytic converters (2 close-coupled + 2 underbody)
- 3.5L and 2.7L EcoBoost: 2 catalytic converters
- Dealership replacement for all 4 converters: $3,000-$6,000. Salvage yard OEM: $600-$1,200 total
- F-150s are the #1 target for catalytic converter theft due to high ground clearance
F-150 Catalytic Converter Count by Engine
The Ford F-150 has been offered with several engines over the years, and each one uses a different number of catalytic converters. Here's the full breakdown:
| Engine | Years | Number of Cats | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5.0L Coyote V8 | 2011-present | 4 | 2 close-coupled + 2 underbody |
| 3.5L EcoBoost V6 | 2011-present | 2 | Close-coupled to turbo downpipes |
| 2.7L EcoBoost V6 | 2015-present | 2 | Close-coupled to turbo downpipes |
| 5.4L Triton V8 | 1997-2010 | 2-4 | Varies by year |
| 4.6L V8 | 1997-2010 | 2 | Underbody |
| 3.3L V6 | 2018-present | 1 | Underbody |
| 3.5L PowerBoost Hybrid | 2021-present | 2 | Close-coupled |
Where Are They Located?
On the 5.0L Coyote V8, the two close-coupled converters are bolted directly to the exhaust manifolds on each side of the engine. They're tight against the engine block and hard to access — which is why thieves usually leave them alone.
The two underbody converters sit further back under the truck, about halfway between the cab and the rear axle. These are the ones that get stolen. They're exposed, easy to reach, and can be cut off with a battery-powered saw in under 90 seconds per side.
On EcoBoost engines, the converters are integrated into the turbo downpipes near the engine. They're much harder to steal because they're packed tight in the engine bay.
F-150 Converter Replacement Costs
| Scenario | Dealership | Indie Shop + Aftermarket | Indie Shop + Salvage OEM |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 underbody converter | $800-$1,500 | $400-$700 | $250-$500 |
| 2 underbody converters | $1,500-$2,800 | $700-$1,200 | $450-$900 |
| All 4 converters (5.0L) | $3,000-$6,000 | $1,200-$2,200 | $600-$1,200 |
| 2 converters (EcoBoost) | $1,800-$3,500 | $600-$1,200 | $400-$800 |
Protecting Your F-150 From Converter Theft
The National Insurance Crime Bureau reported that catalytic converter thefts increased 1,215% from 2019 to 2022. F-150s are one of the top targets because of their high ground clearance.
Options that actually work:
- Catalytic converter shield/cage ($150-$400 installed) — Steel plates that bolt around the converters. Takes a thief from a 90-second job to a 10-15 minute job, which is usually enough deterrence.
- Etch your VIN on the converter (free-$25) — Makes it traceable. Some police departments offer free etching events.
- Park in well-lit areas — Simple but effective. Thieves prefer dark, quiet spots.
- Motion-activated camera/alarm ($50-$200) — Aftermarket options that trigger when vibration is detected under the vehicle.
Read our full guide on catalytic converter values and replacement costs, or search our inventory for F-150 parts at salvage yards near you.