How To Prevent Catalytic Converter Theft

Catalytic converter theft has seen a huge increase in the last few months. There seems to be an infinite number of cases and this is a particularly dangerous situation because almost all cars these days have a catalytic converter and hence a lot of people are at risk. 

Catalytic converters are very important for the environment. They are installed in cars to convert the harmful emissions from cars to unharmful gasses that do not damage the environment. The problem is, the cost of catalytic converters is high and if stolen, will cost you north of $1000 to replace. So what is the deal, why are people stealing these?

Why is Catalytic Converter theft a thing?

As the world is beginning to go green there have been stricter car emission rules. Places like China have a huge air pollution problem, and so the need for these converters has increased dramatically. Two of the most precious metals used to manufacture catalytic converters are palladium and rhodium. The price of palladium has gone from $500 per ounce five years ago, to more than $2000 today. The same is the case for rhodium. So as you can see, people can make a fortune out of stealing catalytic converters. 

How to prevent catalytic converter theft?

To save yourself from huge losses, you need to take all the right precautions. Here we have combined a list of steps you should take so that the likelihood of you losing a catalytic converter is reduced greatly. 

• Get motion-sensing lights
  

  Motion sensing lights are a great way to avoid petty theft. These will always scare the burglars away. These burglars thrive in the dark because they can’t be seen. Naturally, when a light will shine on them, they are bound to run away. These will not only save your catalytic converters but will also prevent home burglaries. 

• Park your car in well-lit areas
  

  In case you do not have a garage and do not want to get motion-sensing lights, it will probably be a good idea for you to park your car in well-lit areas. If you’re parking on the street, try to do it under a lamp post. Again, like mentioned earlier, thieves thrive in the dark. 

• Engrave your catalytic converter with your VIN
  

  It is also a good idea for you to engrave your catalytic converter with your vehicle identification number (VIN). What this will do is, if the thieves do manage to steal the converter, seeing the VIN on the converter will alert your scrap dealer and may prompt him to take action because he will know the converter is stolen. 

• Park close to other cars
  

  Let’s say you have two cars, a big SUV and a smaller one, try to park the smaller one right next to the SUV. What that does is, makes it extremely difficult for the thieves to get under your car and steal the converter. Even if you do not have two cars, parking close to other cars that blocks the thieves’ entry to get beneath your car is a good way to prevent catalytic converter theft. 

• Weld the heads off catalytic converter bolts
  

  Some mechanics suggest that you simply weld the heads of the catalytic converter bolts. This is an almost foolproof way and will make life hell for the thieves. 

• Use a catalytic converter anti-theft device
  

  With the increase in catalytic converter theft, many companies have come forward with new products that will help you prevent catalytic converter theft. Use a product like CatClamp, but note that you will likely need a mechanic to install it on your car. It is probably the best guard for your converter and you will certainly have that peace of mind. 

• Get Security Cameras
  

  With increasing crime in the US and all around the world, home security cameras are a must-have these days. They will not only prevent your catalytic converter theft but will save you from all sorts of trouble. With advanced home security systems, you can actually prevent crime from happening, because live guards and AI are constantly monitoring your house. You will never feel safer. 

What to do if my catalytic converter got stolen?

If your catalytic converter is stolen, contact the police immediately. If you have engraved your VIN number on the converter, tell that to the police and then contact local scrap dealers so that they can notify you if a catalytic converter of your VIN shows up. 

How will I know if my Catalytic Converter got stolen? 

You will know when you start your engine and you start hearing loud roaring noises. As you push the pedal, the sound will get louder. Your car will also not be driving smoothly. 

What vehicles are top targets for catalytic converter thefts?

Almost all cars have catalytic converters but most thieves will try to target higher cars. This is because it is very easy for them to slip underneath them and steal the converter. Typically, SUVs are the prime target for this reason.