Catalytic Converter Theft
It was a beautiful sunny Calgary morning. As Bill headed to his car parked in the driveway, he noticed a cute little bunny sitting on the neighbour’s lawn. Spring was here and life was good. He slid into the seat of his Toyota Prius and started the engine. Suddenly and to his utter shock, the car was making a VERY LOUD noise! Then the engine light came on. Oh no! To confirm his suspicions, Bill turned off the ignition and looked under his car. It was obvious something was missing - it was the catalytic converter.
Catalytic converters are a part of your vehicle’s exhaust system to filter the emissions and reduce vehicle pollution. They can be seen on the underside of a vehicle, usually underneath the passenger seat.
In the past few years, this expensive part has produced a massive crime wave incentivized by a booming market for precious metals. Thieves know that contained within converters are three of such metals: Palladium, Platinum and Radium. On today's market, Palladium is the most expensive component and with a shortage of this commodity over the years, the price has surpassed that of gold. Therefore, it comes as no surprise that according to Calgary Police, thefts of these catalytic converters more than tripled in 2021.
Gone in 60 seconds!
These coveted components are vulnerable because they are quick and easy to steal. The popularity of SUVs and trucks that have plenty of ground clearance, makes it easy for someone equipped with a battery-operated power saw or impact wrench to slide under the vehicle and remove the converter. One to two minutes, that’s all it takes. To see how quickly this theft occurs, take a look at this video
How do I know my catalytic converter is missing?
Like Bill, you’ll notice how loud your vehicle is when you start it. With the converter removed from the exhaust system, your engine is running with an open pipe thus the noise. Besides the loud noise, you need to be aware that this open pipe can create a danger from the carbon monoxide which can easily enter the vehicle through openings in the body of the vehicle. You may also see your Check Engine light come on. When the catalytic converter is removed by thieves, at least one sensor may be cut or removed as well. Finally, look under your vehicle, it will be obvious that components are missing.
Knowing What to Do
In the event that your catalytic converter does get stolen, these are the steps you should take:
File a police report so that your local police department can track the theft.
Contact your insurance company and send them pictures of the damage.
Call your mechanic to have a new catalytic converter installed.
Before driving your vehicle to the repair shop, you may consider having it towed. Without the converter in place, the rest of the exhaust system may not be secure and you run the risk of doing more damage if a loose exhaust pipe digs into the road.
Discouraging the Thief
It’s never a fun time when your vehicle gets vandalized, however, there are a few steps to prevent it from happening.
Park in a closed, secured garage when possible
Park in well-lit areas
Install CCTV/home security alarm
Installation of a bright motion sensor light pointed at your vehicle to dissuade potential thieves.
Be sure to set your alarm. If possible, calibrate your car's alarm to go off when it detects vibration.
Engrave your licence plate or VIN number on the converter and spray paint it end to end with a High Temp bright coloured paint. The hope is the would-be thief will become discouraged and move on when he sees the identifiable markings.
Consider having a catalytic converter anti-theft device installed.
Lastly, remember to stay vigilant and do what you can to protect your vehicle and its catalytic converter. Should you witness a crime in progress, immediately call 9-1-1. If you see or hear suspicious activity, it’s important to report it to police by calling 403-266-1234. Provide as much descriptive information as you can and always remember, together we are keeping Kingsland safe.
