Theft of Catalytic Converters is Still on the Rise

By, Ben

Your Catalytic Converter is a valuable commodity these days. Not only in the sense of environmental protection but also your "Cat" may be worth up to $1,000 on the black market. Precious metals like Platinum, Palladium, and Rhodium are deposited on a honeycomb-shaped filter that converts dangerous chemicals into inert gases as part of your exhaust system. Shortages in the supply chain for these metals have created opportunity for thieves to make a lot of money!

Luckily Boise Muffler Shop is on the case!

Here are some tips to prevent or reduce the chances you will be the next victim.

Safe Practices

Park in well-lit areas and/or in secured parking structures when available.
Thieves target parking lots where there are many vehicles to harvest. Back your car into a space that is blocked on 3 sides.
Install a vehicle alarm that can detect under carriage activity or motion on the car frame.
Get Boise Muffler to install a Catalytic Converter Shield that prevents access to the Catalytic Converter
If you are out on the town for an evening, park next a high foot-traffic area, such as a sidewalk.

Catalytic Converter Protection Shields

"Cat" shields are custom made devices that are specific to your make and model. The Catalytic Converter Shield is exactly what is sounds like - a durable metal plate that denies access to the converter itself. While a would-be thief may eventually gain access to the converter, the amount of time required, and the number of tools needed provides a steep deterrent. Thieves are generally armed with only a hacksaw and plan to harvest as many converters as possible from the same location, so chances are excellent that they will simply move on to a different vehicle.

This is a smart investment if you plan on traveling to unfamiliar and populated cities, or leave your vehicle for long periods of time, Larger vehicles are a bigger target because they have larger Catalytic Converters, but Hybrids are also highly valued. Call us and let Boise Muffler secure your Catalytic Converter today!