Why Do Catalytic Converters Get Stolen?

 Vehicles are made up of a variety of components derived from various basic materials. Every component of a vehicle contributes to its overall functionality; nevertheless, certain elements are more significant than others.

One of the most important components is the catalytic converter. How valuable is a car's catalytic converter? People steal catalytic converters for a variety of reasons 

Let's look at why thieves have acquired an interest in stealing catalytic converters from parked cars, particularly at night or in regions where the theft process is difficult to detect.

Catalytic converters are stolen because they are extremely important components in any vehicle, especially the more expensive ones. Catalytic converters are constructed from extremely rare metals such as rhodium, platinum, and palladium.

Vehicle catalytic converters are made from precious metals that are more valuable than gold. They are incredibly costly both at the source and in any components they may be found in, one of which is the catalytic converter.

The catalytic converter in a car is valued between £100 and £1,000, therefore thieves will go to any length to remove the component and sell it on the black market. The catalytic converter's value remains constant until it is scrapped.

Theft of a catalytic converter has a number of consequences

The following are some of the drawbacks of catalytic converters being stolen or removed from vehicles:

1 - Offense under the law

Car owners are not allowed to remove catalytic converters from their vehicles unless they follow a specified procedure, according to the US Environmental Protection Agency 

If the necessary information is not acquired from the relevant governmental agency, this act may result in severe legal consequences.

2 - Concerns about emissions

The catalytic converter assists in removing excessive quantities of carbon monoxide generated during combustion and replacing it with carbon dioxide.

Driving without a catalytic converter emits direct emissions into the atmosphere, which contributes to pollution and contributes to global warming.

3 - A disruption in the environment (noise pollution)

The catalytic converter also helps to reduce the amount of noise generated by a vehicle while it is being driven. Taking it out would instantly shatter the covering, resulting in a deafening roar as the accelerator pedal is depressed. This is not healthy for human ears.

4 - Fuel usage is high

The catalytic converter not only helps to make combustion less hazardous, but it also helps to save money on fuel. When you drive without a catalytic converter, this process is automatically reversed, and your car consumes more fuel.

What can I do to avoid having my catalytic converter stolen?

It is rather simple to avoid the theft of your vehicle's catalytic converter. The following are two significant measures for preventing catalytic converter theft:

1 - Park in a well-lit, well-secured area

It is preferable to park your automobile in an open area with many passers-by. At night, try to park in well-lit places where you can see your car through the windows.

2 - Install an anti-theft device into your vehicle

Installing a catalytic converter anti-theft device is another approach to keep your car's catalytic converter safe. You may also install a general security/anti-theft device that sounds an alarm if someone goes too far to touch any portion of the vehicle. This will ensure that you are constantly alerted.