Full Notification

What is the one thing you would expect car burglars to steal when they break into your car? The car stereo, a cell phone, a laptop or gym bag, or that loose change you keep in the ashtray? All of these things maybe, but would you think they would steal your catalytic converter?

Catalytic converter thefts are taking place because the converters contain several types of expensive recyclable materials that can be easily scrapped for a quick profit. Thefts of catalytic converters increase each time the cost of scrap metal, particularly platinum, increases. The City of El Cerrito and other cities in the Bay Area have seen a rise in the number of reported catalytic converter thefts.

Your vehicle's catalytic converter is a device used to reduce the toxicity of emissions from an internal combustion engine. The converter is attached to your exhaust system and is 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 to converter theft. Currently, we are seeing Toyotas being targeted, specifically the Prius, as they contain more of the precious metals.

So what can you do to protect your vehicle? Below are five prevention tips that can reduce your risk.
• Park in areas where passers-by will easily see your vehicle. 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.
• Most muffler shops can weld bracing onto your vehicle’s catalytic converter to make its removal difficult and time-consuming for thieves.
• Install a catalytic converter protection device that will clamp around the converter or block it off completely.
• Etch your converter with your vehicle’s license plate number or VIN in several different locations. Serializing will help police track your property if it is stolen and recovered. If your converter is stolen, file a police report immediately after the theft is discovered.

The ECPD is actively investigating catalytic converter thefts and providing extra patrol to help combat them. However, should you see anyone underneath a vehicle or a vehicle being lifted with a floor jack, you are encouraged to report this activity to the ECPD at 510-233-1214 or 911

Check out a recent story on KRON 4 News regarding these thefts:
https://www.kron4.com/news/bay-area/el-cerrito-seeing-uptick-in-catalytic-converter-thefts/