Due to a combination of low car inventories at auto dealerships as well as the skyrocketing value of catalytic converters, car vandalism, and car theft are on the rise. Consequently, anyone who owns a vehicle should be aware of the increasing threat of theft. Read on to find out what you can do to avoid becoming the victim of catalytic convertor theft:
What is a Catalytic Converter?
First things first, it’s important to understand why this part is being stolen. It is a vital element in your car’s exhaust system, as it reduces emissions and harmful compounds in your exhaust. The catalytic converter is situated underneath your car, right next to the exhaust pipe. It is often bolted on and easy enough to remove with the right tools. The part is made of precious metals that are then sold for profit. The entire process of removing the part is fast and can be done in around 5 to 10 minutes. Replacing the part is expensive, costing on average between $945 and $2,250.
How to Prevent Catalytic Converter Theft
While the following actions will not prevent catalytic converter theft in all instances, it will at least make your vehicle a less desirable target for such theft. Remember to do the following to decrease your chances of being victimized by this crime:
- Park in well-lit areas: Obviously, if a person is aiming to steal a part from your car, they don’t want the area to be well-lit where what they are doing might be recognized by passersby or security cameras.
- Park in your garage: If you have the means to do so, make sure you are parking your car inside your locked garage, especially at night.
- Have your neighborhood on alert: Stay up to date with area crimes and communicate any theft trends that might be happening in your area to your neighborhood. Consider maybe forming a neighborhood watch group to further create a safe area.
- Weld your converter to your frame: If you don’t think you can avoid someone targeting your car, perhaps because you don’t have a garage to park in, or you simply live in a high crime area, weld your converter onto the frame of your car, so it’s not easily removed by backing out a few bolts. You can also install a steel shield that will prevent criminals from accessing the area at all.
How to Tell if Your Catalytic Converter Has Been Stolen
Your car will make sputtering sounds, and may smell and run rough if the catalytic converter is removed. Thankfully, if this happens to you, comprehensive car insurance helps cover damage to your car caused by situations out of your control and not the result of other drivers’ actions, such as catalytic converter theft. Keep in mind that liability-only coverage will not provide the kind of coverage that will protect you from theft, vandalism or damage. Here’s what your next step should be if you realize your car’s catalytic converter has been stolen, and you have comprehensive coverage:
- Call the Police: Although police involvement will very unlikely help you find your lost catalytic converter, letting them know what happened is important. This helps police in your area build a case against the criminals and helps them add to their charges once they find them. You might be able to obtain a payout from the guilty party eventually if they are caught. However, even if you never see a dime, it’s important to alert police about what took place.
- Call Your Insurance Provider or Agent: Call your insurance agent or provider and let them know what has taken place.
- File a Claim: File a claim proving damage has been done to your car through the removal of a catalytic converter.
- Repair Your Car: Have your car repaired, and the catalytic converter replaced when you receive your compensation.
Bottom Line: You Need to Protect Your Car
Ready to protect your vehicle from this ever-increasing kind of theft? Reach out to our team today, and we would be happy to help.
