What’s A Catalytic Converter and Why Do People Steal Them?

Car theft is a real issue for the owners. In 2020, the number of vehicles stolen was up 11.8 percent from 724,872 in 2019. Whenever there is something of value, there are always perpetrators.

But apart from stealing the vehicles themselves, criminals can spend a little more time looking under your car. Some parts are valuable in more ways than one and sell quickly with no questions asked.

One such component is a catalytic converter. This article will discuss its function, value, and what organizations are doing to help prevent theft and provide protection. 

What Is A Catalytic Converter?

Catalytic converters first appeared in the mid-1970s and quickly started to be used universally. It is a part of your car’s exhaust system that converts harmful engine-exhaust pollutants into something less harmful to the environment through chemical reactions. Most hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide, and nitrogen oxides convert into the “less bad” carbon dioxide, nitrogen, and water vapor. 

Driving around without one would be very damaging to the ecology. Unfortunately, thieves are not concerned about that and would gladly steal it off your car for its monetary value. 

What Is A Catalytic Converter Worth?

Catalytic converters do possess value. But just how much they are worth depends on the type of vehicle and how old it is. 

Converter scraps can be sold anywhere, from relatively small sums of money (about $100) to, in some cases, over $540. The part is manufactured from certain precious metals that recently increased in value. In December 2020, rhodium was priced at around $14,500 per ounce, palladium at approximately $2,336 per ounce, and platinum was worth about $1,061 per ounce. 

The sad news is that If you become a victim of theft, replacing one will hit your wallet. Most catalytic converters cost between $800 to $1,200. In some instances, you will have to pay anywhere from $1,000 to $3,000 to fix your car. They used to cost $350, but the pandemic created shortages, influencing the pricing. 

That creates a scenario where owners are always under the indirect risk of theft. But does the government do anything about it?

How To Prevent Catalytic Converter Theft

There are a few measures you could personally employ to stave off criminals. After all, a stolen converter costs a pretty penny. You can do the following to mitigate the risks:

• Etch your VIN or license plate number or install an anti-theft device
• Park in a garage, near entrances or well-lit areas and install a car alarm
• Perhaps consider installing a motion sensor light
• Try to park in a way that limits thief’s access under your car (close to a wall or other cars)
• Purchase a converter lock and have it installed by a professional

How The Government Is Helping To Prevent Theft

Given the rise in thefts in recent years, some states are trying to settle this matter. In Ohio, lawmakers introduced a bill to ban the sale of catalytic converters without proof of ownership. At the same time, Arizona launched an initiative called “Operation Heavy Metal” in response to the frequency of occurrences. 

Departments are working with communities and launching anti-theft programs. Many propose etching the license plate number onto the converter to make it traceable, helping law enforcement catch the perpetrator.

All 50 states have unanimously passed laws aimed at preventing converter thefts. Sooner or later, such crimes will go down in frequency. However, you should be precautious and diligent in helping its prevention. 

Summary

The tactics listed above will ensure a certain degree of protection and peace of mind. However, it is not an end-all-be-all. Always be mindful of your vehicle and exercise precaution when necessary. If you find that your car is too loud and something seems off, it is possible you have become a victim of theft. In this case, you should call your insurance company and check if catalytic converters are covered in your policy. 

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