A catalytic converter is a tool present in automobiles’ exhaust programs that converts environmentally hazardous exhaust into much less dangerous gasses. Though catalytic converters have been put in in each new car since 1975, theft of those units has skyrocketed in recent times as a result of extremely precious valuable metals they comprise. This article discusses why catalytic converters get stolen and the way car homeowners can stop their theft.
Why Catalytic Converters Get Stolen
The National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) discovered that the variety of reported catalytic converter thefts elevated from roughly 1,300 in 2018 to greater than 52,000 in 2021. Several causes thieves goal these units embrace:
- They’re straightforward to steal. It solely takes a couple of minutes to steal a catalytic converter utilizing a noticed or wrench, and most automobiles don’t must be jacked up for thieves to entry the system. Taller automobiles could also be focused extra often since they’re simpler for thieves to get beneath.
- They’re extremely precious. In latest years, the uncommon earth metals— akin to platinum, palladium and rhodium—used to fabricate these units have significantly elevated in worth. In 2021, platinum offered for $1,100 per ounce, palladium for $2,400 and rhodium for $18,000.
- Catalytic converters are usually not made equally. Hybrid automobiles, for instance, are extremely focused since their catalytic converters comprise extra valuable metals.
- They’re arduous to hint. Catalytic converters don’t carry an identification quantity, so it’s practically inconceivable to establish them as stolen property.
How to Prevent Catalytic Converter Theft
Some states, akin to Indiana and Texas, have handed legal guidelines to assist cut back the frequency of catalytic converter theft. These embrace requiring scrap metallic sellers to ask for car titles or different documentation earlier than shopping for used units. However, since changing a stolen catalytic converter can price upwards of $1,500, it’s nonetheless essential for car homeowners to take preventive motion to scale back the potential of theft. The following are methods to attenuate catalytic converter theft:
- Install an anti-theft system. Many producers have developed anti-theft units, akin to metal plates that defend the underside of a car or metal cable cages that make elimination harder. Installing an alarm or a brilliant movement sensor gentle may deter a thief.
- Park in safe areas. If out there, automobiles ought to be parked in a single day in a locked storage or in a well-lit, enclosed lot. When parking on the road, choose a well-lit space with loads of site visitors.
- Paint the catalytic converter. Using a high-temperature, fluorescent automotive exhaust spray paint on the auto half can create a visual deterrent to alert thieves to maneuver on. Paint may sign legislation enforcement and recyclers to search for etched numbers or identification marks.
- Get the system etched. Some police departments and muffler outlets will etch a car’s identification quantity or license plate quantity onto the catalytic converter without cost, making it more durable for thieves to promote the half. Vehicle homeowners may buy an engraver’s machine for a minimal price at a {hardware}/do-it-yourself retailer.
- Purchase complete auto insurance coverage protection. While having protection in place gained’t stop catalytic converter theft, it’s going to assist cowl bills if the half will get stolen. Keep in thoughts that buying solely auto legal responsibility protection is not going to cowl theft.
Even with the right insurance coverage protection, victims of catalytic converter theft should still have to attend for repairs as a result of elements supply delays and restore store backups. With such thefts on the rise, taking preventive motion is one of the simplest ways to keep away from turning into a goal. Contact us at the moment for extra threat administration steering.
For extra recommendations on learn how to stop car theft, contact INSURICA at the moment.
