How to Prevent Catalytic Converter Theft

You probably have never heard of it, but catalytic converters are designed to act as a line of defense against harmful exhaust emissions by turning pollutants into harmless gasses. But why are people stealing catalytic converters? The technology used in these emission control devices includes many precious metals, like platinum, palladium or rhodium, making them a valuable item to steal and resell. This makes Murrieta and Lake Elsinore drivers especially susceptible.

Fuel-powered vehicles that were produced after 1974 most likely have catalytic converters, so there are a lot of cars on the road that might appeal to catalytic converter theft. However, taller vehicles, like pickup trucks or SUVs, are most often the target of catalytic converter theft because thieves can easily fit under the vehicle to access the catalytic converter. Find out more about how to prevent catalytic converter theft below and some signs that you might have already been the target of this.

Why Do Thieves Target Catalytic Converters?

According to Edmunds, experienced thieves can remove a catalytic converter in minutes, especially with modern power tools with advanced models containing more precious metals, which make them a larger target. But why do people steal catalytic converters? Catalytic converters are increasingly a target for thieves due to a number of factors, but the most common include:

• The current market value of a catalytic converter’s precious metals
• The ease of removing a catalytic converter for an experienced thief
• The inability to track catalytic converters

In the current market, catalytic converters can be resold to recyclers for as little as $50 or to precious metal dealers for as much as thousands of dollars per ounce, reports the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB). And because there is no tracking on converters like serial codes or branding stamps, once they’re taken, they’re gone.

How to Tell If Your Catalytic Converter Was Stolen

It can be hard to be able to tell your catalytic converter was stolen just by looking at your car, but you’ll know just as soon as you start the engine. When the catalytic converter has been removed, your vehicle will make a loud roaring sound that’ll get louder as you push the gas pedal. This, combined with a sputtering sound as you change speeds and an increase in exhaust, can be telltale signs.

In summary, here are the key ways to tell that your catalytic converter has been removed without your knowledge:

• Loud roar when you start the car, louder as you accelerate
• Increase in exhaust fumes or unusual exhaust smells
• Missing parts under vehicle leading to muffler
• Uneven or sputtering acceleration due to lack of exhaust regulation
• Check engine light or inspection failures

How to Protect Against Catalytic Converter Theft

The following key points are important so you know about how to protect yourself from catalytic converter theft:

1. Park in well-lit areas close to public entrances, regularly move your car’s spot, or use a closed garage if possible.
2. Know if your car is a likely target: hybrids, SUVs, and trucks have valuable or easily removable catalytic converters.
3. If you want to take your protection a step further, etch your license plate number or VIN onto your catalytic converter (this may help alert a scrap dealer that it was stolen and make it easier to identify the owner).
4. Install an anti-theft device such as the MILLERCAT V2 Cat Shield.
5. Install motion-sensitive lights and cameras in your parking area.
6. Paint your catalytic converter to deter buyers. You can reach out to your local police departments to see if they offer free programs for painting.

The MILLERCAT V2 CAT SHIELD

One of our favorite options of protection is the MILLERCAT V2 Cat Shield. While there are variations of shields out there, every corner, hole, and louver is designed with specific intentions on this model. For example, even their holes in the Gen 2 were marked to fit perfectly into the dimples of the subframe. Why? Because by doing this their shield will sit flush with the vehicle and not create uneven gaps between the shield and car. Their shields also use tamper-proof screws to hold your shield in place and allow you to take it off when you need to. What does tamper-proof mean? It means no one will have the security bit to take off the shield and you won’t find it at any hardware store. But for anyone needing to take it to the next level, they offer their own proprietary screw and key for the ultimate protection. The best part, we can install this for you! Book an appointment today!

Find More Service Tips at Temecula Valley Toyota

No one wants to be subject to theft, no matter how small it is, but the team at Temecula Valley Toyota is here to help Menifee drivers make sure they’re keeping their vehicle running smoothly. Our service department and parts departments have all of the information you need about catalytic converters, and we can even help you replace one if you have been the subject of theft. Schedule service online today, so you can have peace of mind.