What is a catalytic converter and what can you do as a car owner to protect this valuable part from theft?
What Is A Catalytic Converter?
Catalytic converters initially made their appearance in the middle of the seventies and fast began to be used globally. It is a part of a vehicle’s exhaust system that turns bad engine-exhaust contaminants into a less damaging exhaust to the atmosphere using a chemical reaction. A lot of nitrogen oxides, CO, and hydrocarbons, turn into the “less harmful” nitrogen, CO, and water vapors.
Driving around devoid of one would be very detrimental to the environment. Regrettably, thieves don’t care about that and would happily steal it off your vehicle for its monetary value.
How Much Are Catalytic Converters Worth?
Catalytic converters do have value. But how much they are worth is subject to the kind of vehicle and it’s age.
The horrible news is that should you become a victim of theft, replacing one is going to hit your pockets. A lot of catalytic converters cost around $800 to $1,200. In some cases, you are going to have to pay anywhere from $1,000 to $3,000 to repair your car. They used to cost about $350, but the recent COVID pandemic created shortages, impacting the costs.
How To Prevent Theft Of Catalytic Converter
Use as many of these tips as possible in order to prevent the theft of your catalytic converter.
Park Your Car Strategically
If possible, try to park your car in a secure garage with the exhaust pipe side of your car closest to a wall. This makes it much harder for a potential thief to reach the converter. If you have multiple cars, park the ones with the lower ground clearance outside of the cars with higher ground clearance, such as an SUV.
Add Your VIN Or A Label System
Have your converter engraved with your car’s VIN. This will make it easier to track down if it is stolen and ultimately sold. You can purchase a catalytic converter label system to place on the part. These labels will display a website that authorities or resellers can access to find a stolen converter’s registered owner.
Paint The Converter
It’s recommended to use bright, high-heat car spray on the part to deter theft. The unique coloring can also be used to alert resellers and authorities.
Set Your Car Alarm
Set your car alarm to react to vibration. Typically, converters are stolen by the use of a saw. This can activate your car alarm.
Weld The Converter In Place
Bolted-in converters are easier to steal than welded-in parts. Ask a mechanic to weld this piece into the vehicle. Some converters do come welded on, depending on the auto brand.
Add A Lock Or Shield
Some vehicles can be fitted with metal panels that act as a shield between the road and converter. There are also converter locks that make it difficult or even impossible to steal. You may need the help of a mechanic to properly install these safety devices.
What To Do If Your Catalytic Converter Is Stolen
If your catalytic converter is ultimately stolen, your car will become louder and likely emit a foul smell. Report the theft to the authorities, tow your car to a mechanic, and file a claim with your insurer if you have comprehensive auto insurance.
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