Vehicle theft is a real problem for their owners. In 2020, the volume of vehicles stolen was up 12% from around 720,000 in 2019. Anytime there is something valuable, there are going to people that want it.
What is A Catalytic Converter and Why Do People Want to Steal Them?
In addition to stealing the vehicles themselves, criminals might spend a little more time looking underneath your vehicle. Some vehicle parts are worth more in more ways than one and are sold fast with not a single question asked.
One such part is your catalytic converter. This post is going to examine its functionality, value, and what agencies are doing to help hinder their theft and offer protection.
What Is A Catalytic Converter?
Catalytic converters initially appeared in the mid-70’s and quickly began to be used universally. It is a component of your vehicle’s exhaust system that converts dangerous engine-exhaust contaminants into something less dangerous for the environment via chemical reactions. Many hydrocarbons, CO, and nitrogen oxides turn into the “less bad” CO2, water vapor, and nitrogen.
Driving without one would be very harmful to the environment. Tragically, thieves are not interested in that and would gladly steal it from your vehicle for its monetary amount.
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What Is the Value of a Catalytic Converter?
They do have value. But what they are valued at is subject to the type of vehicle and its age.
Converter scraps can be sold just about anywhere, from somewhat small amounts of money (around $100) to, in some instances, $540 plus. The part is produced from specific precious metals that lately have increased in value. In late 2020, rhodium was valued at around $14,500 for each ounce, platinum was worth around $1,060 for each ounce, and palladium at about $2,340 per ounce.
The bad news is that if you become a victim of theft, getting one replaced is going to hit your bank account. Many catalytic converters are valued between $800 to $1,200. In many cases, you’re going to have to fork out somewhere around $1,000 to $3,000 to repair your vehicle. They used to be around $350, but the spread of COVID-19 created shortages, impacting the pricing.
How To Stop Your Catalytic Converter from Getting Stolen
There are a couple of actions you could personally carry out to fend off thieves. At the end of the day, stolen converters cost a good amount of money. You can do the below to reduce the risks:
- Etch your VIN or license plate number or install an anti-theft device
- Use a garage for parking, close to entrances or well-lit places and have a vehicle alarm installed
- Maybe think about having a motion sensor light installed
- Attempt to park so that it restricts thief’s access underneath your vehicle (close to a wall or other vehicles)
- Purchase a converter lock and have it installed by a professional
How The Government Is Helping To Hinder Theft
Given the increase in thefts recently, many states are trying to settle this issue. In Ohio, lawmakers presented a bill to prohibit the selling of catalytic converters without documentation of ownership. Simultaneously, Arizona commenced an initiative known as “Operation Heavy Metal” in response to the degree of occurrences.
Agencies are working alongside communities and launching anti-theft agendas. A lot propose etching their license plate number onto the converter to make it identifiable, helping police catch the thieves.
Every state in the US has collectively passed laws geared towards stopping converter thefts. Eventually, these crimes are going to go down in frequency. Nevertheless, you should be cautious and careful in helping its hinderance.
Summary
The strategies listed above are going to guarantee a certain level of protection and peace of mind. Nevertheless, it is not a deciding factor. Always be heedful of your vehicle and exercise caution when required. If you notice that your vehicle is louder than usual and something’s “just not right”, it could be that thieves have taken your converter. In this instance, you should contact your insurance agency and verify if catalytic converters are covered by your policy.
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