Catalytic converter theft is on the rise because they have a huge value in the black market. Thieves are on the loose, stealing them from vehicles and making a lot of money selling them. As a car owner, that should worry you a lot. You need to take certain steps to ensure that your car is secured and avoid falling victim.
A catalytic converter is a device that is installed in the exhaust system of a vehicle. It is responsible for converting harmful emissions from the vehicle's engine into less harmful substances, such as carbon dioxide and water. The converters contain precious metals, such as platinum, palladium, and rhodium, which make them valuable to thieves.
In this article, we will look at several steps you should take to protect your car from catalytic converter theft.
How to recognize if your catalytic converter has been stolen
If your catalytic converter has been stolen, you may notice that your vehicle is louder than usual, or having trouble accelerating. You may also see scratches or other damage around the area where the converter was attached to the exhaust system.
Tips for protecting your vehicle from catalytic converter theft
Below are the steps you should take to avoid falling victim to catalytic converter theft:
- Park your car in secure areas, such as a parking garage or an area with plenty of lights. This will make it more difficult for thieves to steal your catalytic converter without being seen.
- Consider installing a security system, such as an alarm or surveillance camera, on your vehicle. This will deter thieves and make them think twice before targeting your vehicle.
- Engrave your vehicle's license plate number and VIN onto the catalytic converter. This will make it more difficult for thieves to sell it on the black market.
- Be aware of your surroundings and pay attention to any suspicious activity near your vehicle. If you notice someone underneath your vehicle or trying to access your catalytic converter, call the police immediately.
- If you have to park your vehicle on the street, try to park it near other vehicles or in a location where it can be easily seen by passersby. This will make it more difficult for thieves to access your catalytic converter without being noticed.
- If you have a trailer hitch, you can install a trailer hitch lock to prevent thieves from easily removing your catalytic converter.
- Be aware of your surroundings and pay attention to any suspicious activity when parking your vehicle.
Conclusion
By following the steps above, you can protect your vehicle from catalytic converter theft. These steps can help deter thieves and make it more difficult for them to steal your catalytic converter.