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What's the one thing you would expect car burglars to steal when they break into your car? The car stereo, a cell phone, or that loose change you keep in the ashtray? All these things perhaps, but would you expect they would steal your catalytic converter?

Catalytic converter thefts are on the rise because the converters contain several types of recyclable materials that can be easily “scrapped” for a quick profit. Catalytic converter thefts increase each time the cost of scrap metal, particularly platinum, increases. Corte Madera, Larkspur, San Anselmo, and Greenbrae have seen an increase in the number of reported catalytic converter thefts this year. The rest of Marin County has also seen an increase.

Your vehicle's catalytic converter is designed to reduce the toxicity of emissions from an internal combustion engine. Catalytic converters have been required by law on every motor vehicle operated in the United States since 1975. It’s attached to your exhaust system and located underneath your car. Catalytic converters contain expensive precious metals like platinum, palladium and rhodium.

Catalytic converter thieves generally target high profile vehicles like trucks or SUV’s because the higher ground clearance allows for easier access underneath the vehicle. However, sports cars and sedans are not immune. Recently we have seen that the Toyota Prius and Honda Element have been targeted.
So, what can you do to protect your vehicle? Here are five prevention tips that can reduce your risk:

• Park in areas where your vehicle will most easily be seen by passers-by. For example, park under lights after dark or near windows at a business. Park near security cameras, if possible.

• Park defensively. Park high profile vehicles so they are surrounded by low ground clearance vehicles. This may deter thieves by making it harder for them to access the most vulnerable targets.

• If your catalytic converter is a “bolt on” model, you can have the bolts welded shut and have extra metal welded to the exhaust system. Another option is to install a catalytic converter protection device that will clamp around the converter.

• Etch your converter with your vehicle’s license plate number in several different locations. This will help police track your property if it is stolen. If your converter is stolen, file a police report immediately after the theft is discovered.

• Consider adding perimeter motion activated lighting to the driveway or locations that your vehicle is parked in. Security cameras are also recommended, not only for this type of crime but for overall home security and deterrence of other crimes. These cameras should be positioned in such a way that any areas of concern are covered, such entry/exit points, driveways, side doors, etc.

Our patrol teams and investigators are working with our law enforcement partners to help prevent these thefts and apprehend the criminals involved. If you notice suspicious activity, please call 9-1-1.