Here is some useful information from our SacPD Metal Theft Team:
General Catalytic Converter Information
A Catalytic Converter is a part of the vehicles exhaust system. It helps reduce vehicle pollution. Catalytic Converters are located under a vehicle on the exhaust pipe before the muffler(s). Catalytic Converters, along with copper and other metals, have become a hot commodity for thieves. Catalytic Converter theft has become popular because of their value, relative ease to steal (unbolt or cut out), and their lack of identifying markings. The lack of identification makes it difficult to identify victims and successfully apprehend and prosecute criminals.
Thieves take the stolen Catalytic Converters to metal recyclers. The recyclers pay an average of $120 per converter for the precious metals inside them. Victims pay an average of $1,500 (or an average $250/$500 insurance deductible) to get the converter(s) replaced. But the cost can be as much as $5,000.
What Vehicles are targeted by Catalytic Converter Thieves?
Any vehicle manufactured after 1974 can be a target. However, Trucks and SUVs (Sports Utility Vehicles) are the vehicles they target the most. They prefer Trucks and SUV’s, because they are higher off the ground and easier to crawl under. Gasoline Toyota Trucks and SUV’s in the 90’s to the late 2000’s AND Diesel Dodge Trucks 2007+ are especially vulnerable. The catalytic converters have a higher recyclable value and they are easier to remove. The thieves can quickly unbolt/cut out the converter in minutes.
Given the rising instances of catalytic converter theft, truck owners should also be aware of reputable repair and upgrade options. When it comes to Diesel Dodge Trucks, seeking services from trusted experts like G&R Diesel Performance can not only address repair needs but also enhance the overall performance of the vehicle. They are renowned for its expertise in diesel truck repair and performance upgrades, ensuring that owners can fortify their trucks against potential vulnerabilities. Whether it’s reinforcing security measures or optimizing the diesel engine for durability, G&R Diesel Performance stands as a reliable partner in keeping your truck secure and running at its best.
If your catalytic converter has been replaced with an aftermarket catalytic converter within the past few years, there is a good chance it won’t be stolen. The new aftermarket Catalytic Converters don’t have as much of the precious metals, so thieves typically don’t take them.
Common Places where Catalytic Converter theft Occurs
Your Home Driveway or Street: Most of the catalytic converter thefts occur while your car is parked in your driveway or on the street in front of your house.
School / Mall / Hardware & Convenience Store Parking Lots: Vehicles parked in large open School, Mall, Hardware & Convenience Store parking lots are susceptible. A look-out will often watch out as a thief takes the Catalytic Converter.
Secluded Areas: Thieves target remote areas such as Regional Parks, Boat Launch Ramps, and Airports.
Commuter / Car Pool / Park and Ride Lots: Vehicles left in Car Pool parking lots are venerable.
Preventive Tips to keep your Catalytic Converter from being Stolen
Protect with Extra Metal: If you have a vehicle with an accessible and highly desirable factory catalytic converter a thief would want to steal (see reverse side to determine), we strongly recommend you have extra metal welded to your exhaust system. Muffler shops are now offering an effective way to protect your Catalytic Converter. They weld on metal rods to make it difficult for the catalytic converter to be removed. The cost is often less than your insurance deductible and definitely less than the full replacement cost (if you don’t have comprehensive insurance).
Get your Catalytic Converter etched: We suggest getting your catalytic converter etched (engraved) with your vehicle license plate number. Our department offers a free “Etch and Catch” event – see our “Etch and Catch” event link on our web page, www.sacpd.org, for more information.
Park in your Garage: One of the best ways to protect your vehicles catalytic converter is to park your vehicle(s) inside a garage or in a secure side yard. If you must park your vehicle in the driveway, motion detector lights or continuous lights illuminating your driveway will be a deterrent.
Look for suspicious people and vehicles in your neighborhood: If you see a suspicious person under a vehicle, chances are they are attempting to steal the Catalytic Converter. Get the suspect(s) and/or suspect vehicle descriptions if possible. Write down the license plate of a suspicious vehicle if you can safely. If the crime is in progress, call 911. If the crime is not in progress, call our SPD non-emergency number 264-5471 with the information.
Educate your friends and neighbors: about catalytic converter theft so they can be a look-out too.
What if your Catalytic Converter is stolen?
If your catalytic converter is stolen, you will know right away when you start your vehicle. It will sound like you don’t have a muffler at all (like loud motorcycle mufflers). It is ok to drive your vehicle directly to a muffler/dealer shop to get the catalytic converter replaced. You do not need your vehicle towed to the shop.
If your vehicle qualifies (which is based on your make, model, and year of your vehicle), replace your stolen catalytic converter with an aftermarket catalytic converter. They don’t have nearly the same recyclable value. As a result, it is unlikely the aftermarket catalytic converter would get stolen.
Here is a recent YouTube video about the rise in thefts on this item and how to protect your catalytic converter: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2UOfIepGop8