Catalytic converter theft is on the rise across the country so if you haven’t heard about it in your area yet, give it time! In fact, the National Insurance Crime Bureau reported a 325 percent increase in catalytic converter theft in the U.S. between 2019 and 2020. Even here in sunny Tempe, AZ we’ve seen a plethora of theft cases come through our local auto repair shop in recent weeks.

What do thieves want with this important exhaust system part? They’re after the precious metals inside – platinum, rhodium, and palladium. When taken to a scrap metal dealer, thieves can often rake in hundreds to thousands of dollars for these metals.

How Do Thieves Steal Catalytic Converters?

Since the process of stealing a catalytic converter is relatively simple, this is ‘easy money’ for some individuals. All they have to do is get under the vehicle, saw off or unbolt the catalytic converter, and make a clean getaway. The entire process can take a matter of minutes for experienced thieves, giving them plenty of time to disappear before being caught. It’s even quicker if they don’t have to jack up the vehicle to get underneath. That’s exactly why larger vehicles such as trucks are prime targets.

How Do You Know If Your Catalytic Converter Was Stolen and How Much Does Repair or Replacement Cost?

When you turn the key or push the button to start your vehicle, you’ll hear a loud rumbling sound if you’re a victim of catalytic converter theft. Unfortunately, not every thief is very careful with their robbery job, either. The saw they use to cut out the converter may also cut wires connecting to the car’s computer. You could be left with a very expensive repair – replacement of the catalytic converte AND replacement or reprogramming of the computer.

Depending on the extent of the damage as well as your vehicle’s make and model, repair costs can run anywhere from $1,800 to $4,000 or more! In addition, there has been a shortage of catalytic converters thanks to the uptick in theft. So, if your converter is stolen, you may not be able to get it replaced immediately.

How to Prevent Catalytic Converter Theft

Since no one enjoys an expensive auto repair bill, how about doing what you can to prevent catalytic converter theft from happening in the first place? While you may not be able to stop the most desperate of thieves, here are some things you can do to reduce your risk of being a victim:

1. Park in well-lit areas.
2. Park in enclosed, attended lots when possible.
3. Set your car alarm when parked.
4. Park in your garage with the door locked.
5. Have your catalytic converter painted bright orange with your vehicle’s identification number etched into it. This makes it traceable and may even prevent a thief from taking it in the first place.
6. Install an anti-theft device such as a metal shield over the converter.
7. When parking in public, park near security cameras on stores or other buildings.

Catalytic Converter Theft Deterrent Services In Tempe, AZ

While you do your best to park in safe places, we can help make your catalytic converter more difficult to steal. At our Tempe auto repair shop, we offer catalytic converter theft deterrent services to our valued customers. Schedule this service and we will:

• Paint your catalytic converter bright orange with heatproof paint.
• Etch your vehicle’s identification number into the paint.
• Install a specially-made catalytic converter anti-theft shield made of metal.

While the services and tips mentioned above may not prevent every case of catalytic converter theft, they can cause thieves to think twice before taking your vehicle’s converter. And, whenever they’re stopped in their tracks, you’re saved from the inconvenience and expense of a major auto repair bill.

Ready to protect your vehicle and your wallet? Schedule an appointment with us today!