Catalytic Converter Theft

Catalytic Converter Theft

There has been a slight rise in this type of crime recently in the local area, due to this here is an advice guide to what this type of crime is and also how to protect yourself from becoming a victim of this. 

Catalytic Converter Theft

Your car has something that’s in demand for thieves. It isn’t your stereo system or anything you’ve hidden in the glove box. Some thieves target the car's tyres or machinery underneath the car. Thieves want your car’s catalytic converter, which takes seconds to remove and is required for your car to run properly. Catalytic converters have been fitted to the exhaust systems of most petrol cars built since the early 90s. Thieves have been targeting catalytic converters because of the precious metals they contain- with high clearance vehicles like vans and 4x4’s being particularly vulnerable.

This link is for a recent BBC article on this type of theft: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-46882497

The Appeal of Catalytic Converters

The reason is platinum. Catalytic converters contain platinum, rhodium, and palladium. The metals are expensive, and thieves sell the converters to scrap yards. It is illegal to drive your car without one. The resulting gap in your exhaust system also makes the car run poorly until it is fixed.

The rate of catalytic converter theft varies depending on the current prices of the metals inside it. Price increases typically result in an increase in thefts. Thieves look for easy targets when it comes to catalytic converter theft. A thief just needs a saw to remove the converter. Some thieves also use a sliding board to get under the vehicle more efficiently. A jack is sometimes used to lift the car for easier access, but this is rare because of the added time the jack adds to the process. Taller vehicles such as 4x4’s, vans or pickup trucks are often more attractive to thieves because of the easier access to the undercarriage. Once under the vehicle, the thief uses a saw to slice through the piping on both sides of the converter. The converter is then pulled off.

To avoid becoming a victim of this kind of theft, follow this advice:

• Fitting perimeter security fencing can help deter opportunist thieves and slow down more organised thieves.
• Good security lighting makes vehicles more visible and can act as a deterrent.
• If you can, park your vehicle in a locked garage when it is unattended.
• CCTV can be an effective deterrent.
• Where possible park a vehicle against a kerb, with the catalytic converter being closest to the kerb.
• If there is a fleet of vehicles, park the low clearance vehicles to block the high-clearance vehicles. This will obstruct access underneath.
• If a catalytic converter is a bolt on type it is possible to have the bolts welded shut.
• Fit protective coverings on catalytic converters, these can make it much more difficult for thieves.
• Have your catalytic converter etched or forensically marked and put stickers in the windscreen to say this has been done.
• Consider installing a Thatcham approved alarm to your vehicle. Ones that activate if your vehicle is lifted or tilted are particularly effective.