Car theft and break-ins are not new phenomena, yet thieves’ inventiveness seems to have reached new bounds. Over the last year and a half catalytic converter theft has soared massively. While it might seem strange, there is a reason why it is occurring. Today we’ll cover why catalytic converters have become the new ‘car radio’ regarding theft.

What is a Catalytic Converter?

A catalytic converter is a device fitted to car exhausts to reduce pollution. Since 1993 it has been mandatory for combustion engine cars to have one fitted. Catalytic converters reduce harmful emissions by using reduction and oxidation. While this may sound pretty scientific, they remove harmful emissions (such as nitrogen oxides).

If you have bought a car that was made after 1993, then it will definitely have a catalytic converter.

The way a catalytic converter works can get a little complex. However, it is the interior of the catalytic converter that is of most interest to thieves…

Why are Catalytic Converters Being Stolen?

Once you understand the basics behind how a catalytic converter works, you will have a better reason why thieves have set their beady eyes on them.

Without getting too much into the physics, the name of the device gives us a clue… Catalytic converter… Specifically, the ‘catalytic’…

Let us explain.

You might remember from GCSE science that a ‘catalyst’ is any element or action that speeds up a chemical reaction. It should be pretty obvious, but the quicker and more efficiently those harmful emissions are converted, the better it is for us all.

So far, so good, right?

The catalysts inside of a catalytic converter are actually precious metals. Ever heard of the term ‘white gold’… Or platinum? You’ll often find this precious metal inside a catalytic converter along with other precious metals such as Rhodium and Palladium… All of which are actually valued higher in price per ounce than gold!

Thieves aren’t interested in your exhaust, but they are after the precious metals held within your catalytic converter.

Because a catalytic converter is mounted on the outside of the vehicle (exhaust inside aren’t the best, don’t you know?), they are quite easy to access. 

With the right tools, they are also pretty easy to remove!

There are certain types of vehicles that are more susceptible too!

Why?

Over years of use, these catalysts within the catalytic converter can become pretty corroded and dirty. It stands to reason that the less corroded the precious metals, the greater their value. Certain cars produce fewer emissions than others...

Such as?

We are talking about hybrids. They only use the ‘petrol’ side of the engine half of the time. Therefore it is less likely that the precious metals held within the catalytic converter will be corroded.

With an increase of electrically powered vehicles soaring by 140% in 2020, this represents rich pickings for light (and dirty) fingered catalytic converter thieves. 

What Can I do to Stop my Catalytic Converter from Being Stolen?

Ok, so car thefts are not a new problem, but there are some common-sense measures you can take to ensure that your catalytic converter doesn’t end up in some dodgy jeweller’s ring counter…

Secure your Vehicle

Prevention is the best step. If a thief can’t get to your vehicle, they can’t steal from it.

Simple, right?

The easiest way to do this is by locking your vehicle in the garage when it is not being used, particularly overnight. 

Watch your Parking

No, we haven’t witnessed you trying to reverse parallel park in Waitrose. We are talking about how you position your vehicle. If you haven’t got the luxury of a garage, the next best thing is to make it difficult for would-be thieves. Reverse into your space and try and get the rear of the car as close as you can to a fence or wall. 

Don’t Make it Easy!

If you have to park on the street, here’s a top tip. Don’t park with two wheels up on a curb. This gives thieves a ‘street jack’, allowing them to easily access the underbelly of your vehicle.

Get it Registered

Even if the worst happens, you might still be able to recover your catalytic converter…

Provided the police can tell who it belongs to. Just as with bicycles, many vehicle traders are offering the option of having your catalytic converter marked and registered, allowing recovery if the police happen to intercept a haul of catalytic converters.

Contact the Police!

This is the most important tip we can offer, especially if you witness someone in the act. 

While you might fancy your chances, let us offer you a tip… Most people would rather fight a man in his dressing gown than go to prison. Be sensible, don’t put yourself at risk. It is far better to contact the police and let them deal with the situation (the thieves, not your choice of dressing gown). 

Conclusion

Catalytic converter theft is bound to increase as the number of hybrids on our roads increases. Thieves are enterprising (and annoying). Do your best to thwart their efforts with our tips above. For the latest car news and other tips on how to care for your vehicle, check out our blog here.