Criminals have targeted catalytic converters for as long as we can remember. However, rates of theft have drastically increased in the past couple of years in the US. The National Insurance Crime Bureau claimed that there were an average of 2,347 thefts in December 2020. You might be wondering, "why are they so special." Catalytic converters contain precious metals such as platinum, rhodium, and palladium. There was a slowdown in the mining industry due to the COVID pandemic. As a result, the value of these metals has significantly increased.
Catalytic converter theft is costly for both vehicle owners and businesses, but its most damaging effect is on the environment. Catalytic converters are in charge of controlling the emissions that come out of your exhaust. More specifically, the cat transforms toxic gases into less dangerous vapors to improve our air quality. Without this mechanism, carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, and nitrogen oxides would be released into the air, severely reducing air quality and damaging our health.
Tips on How to Prevent Catalytic Converter Theft
Gratefully, there are some ways to stop thieves from robbing your catalytic converter. One of the easiest ways is to park your car in a private area, like a garage. If that isn't an option, you can try these options:
- Park your vehicle with the exhaust side closest to fences, walls, or the curb. The closer you get, the better it is, as it makes it more difficult for someone else to reach underneath your car.
- For fleet vehicles, park low clearance vehicles so that they block the high clearance vehicles. This will make it harder for thieves to get underneath.
- When parking in public or car parks, try situating yourself alongside other cars and limit the space.
- Secure the cat by welding the bolts, using cage clamps, or installing security cameras
For all your automotive needs, including catalytic converter repairs or replacements, please consider Ripley's Total Car Care for the job. Give us a call at (281) 407-1330 if you have any questions or concerns.