Catalytic Converter Theft
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Catalytic converter theft is one of the most frequent types of auto loss that we see at Redwoods. Especially during tough economic times, these parts become more enticing.
Catalytic converters are made of platinum, palladium and rhodium. Those three metals are the catalysts used to convert toxic engine emissions to something less harmful. Platinum, palladium and rhodium are valuable on the secondary market. When stolen, finding a replacement can be challenging, expensive to fix and may interrupt your transportation and programming.
Below are some recommendations on how you can protect your vehicles from catalytic converter theft:
- Park vehicles and buses in secure lots
- Monitor the area or perimeter of the lots with burglar alarms as well as security cameras
- Select lots that are in highly visible locations
- Select fencing that allows individuals to still see in the lot
- Install bright lighting or motion sensor lights in the secure lot
- Place substantial gates at the entrance of the lot in order to prevent vehicular access
- Select an area that has high activity as it will increase the possibility of discovery
- Purchase clamp kits to protect the catalytic converter
While some of the efforts to protect your vehicles and buses can be expensive, not all are. Some lower-cost solutions include:
- Park on the street under lights
- Park in an area where police tend to patrol
- Patriciate in an active neighborhood watch program
- Make the converter identifiable to your organization by etching the name of your organization into the converter or by using a permanent marker
- Spray the converter with high-temperature paint
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