Catalytic Converters

Catalytic converter theft is on the rise

Catalytic converters can be removed in less than two minutes and may require only one wrench.

If yours is stolen, you won't notice it's gone until you start your car. You'll hear a very loud exhaust noise since the exhaust will no longer go through the vehicle's muffler.

Preventing thieves from stealing your car’s catalytic converter is worth the effort. New catalytic converters may cost between $400 and $1,500 and the cost to repair the vehicle could be as high as $1,000 to $3,000.

Catalytic converters have been required by law on every motor vehicle operated in the United States since 1975 and are located underneath the car. They contain expensive precious metals like platinum, palladium and rhodium.

Tips to protect your car from theft

• Try to park in a safe and secure place, where a stranger underneath the vehicle would be instantly suspicious.
• When possible, park in the garage instead of on the driveway or in the street.
• Check into installing an additional sensor to converters that set off the vehicle’s alarm when the thieves attempt to steal it. 
• Ask your repair shop to tack weld the nut and bolt; it helps prevent most thieves from easily unbolting the assembly. 
• Engrave your driver's license number (NOT your Social Security Number) on the converter. It helps law enforcement officials return it to you if recovered, as well as helps in the prosecution of the offender.

Residents are advised to call 911 if they see someone underneath a parked vehicle, especially late at night or other times when there are little to no other people around.