Several different raw materials go into the construction of a car’s various parts and components. Cars are made up of many different parts, but some are more important than others.
One of the most important parts is the catalytic converter. How important is a car’s catalytic converter? Why are catalytic converters being stolen?
In order to better understand the purpose of thieves who target parked cars at night or in remote locations seeking catalytic converters, let’s look at why catalytic converters are such a common target.
The Consequences of Stealing Catalytic Converters
Theft or removal of catalytic converters from cars has the following drawbacks:
A violation of the law, as defined by the courts
Owners of autos in the United States are not allowed to remove or replace their catalytic converters unless through a precise procedure authorized by the Environmental Protection Agency.
If the necessary information is not obtained from the relevant governmental agency, this might result in severe legal consequences.
Emissions are an issue
Catalytic converters are designed to extract carbon monoxide from the exhaust gases so that they can be replaced by carbon dioxide.
In addition to polluting the environment, driving without a catalytic converter also contributes to global warming by releasing direct emissions into the atmosphere.
Noise pollution
The sound emitted by a vehicle while being driven can be reduced thanks to the catalytic converter as well. If you remove it, you’ll hear the car’s engine growl as soon as you touch the gas pedal. This is not beneficial for the human ear’s well-being.
Excessive fuel consumption
The catalytic converter not only helps the combustion process to be less toxic; it also assures fuel consumption efficiency. By default, driving without a catalytic converter reverts this function, resulting in higher fuel consumption for your car.
Why is Catalytic Converter a Popular target for Thieves?
Catalytic converters are stolen because they are extremely valuable components in any car, especially high-end models. Rhodium, platinum, and palladium are some of the most expensive metals used to make catalytic converters.
Catalytic converters for cars employ precious metals that are more valuable than gold. Catalytic converters are one of the most expensive parts of a vehicle because of their high cost at the source.
Criminals would do everything to get their hands on a catalytic converter valued between $100 and $1,000 on the illegal market.
How to Protect your Car’s Catalytic Converter
Keeping your car’s catalytic converter safe is a simple matter. It is critical to implement both of these approaches in order to keep catalytic converters safe from theft.
Park in an area that is both secure and accessible
Parking your vehicle in a public area where people are constantly passing by is preferable. When parking at night, aim for well-lit spaces where you can see your car quickly.
Protect your car by installing an anti-theft system
Installing a catalytic converter anti-theft device is another option for keeping your car’s catalytic converter safe. Installing an anti-theft system that rings whenever someone tries to touch any vehicle element is another option. As a result, you’ll constantly be on the watch.
Have you ever been in a situation where you discovered that your car is missing the catalytic converter? And how did this happen? Please share with us your thoughts.
