There has been a jump stolen catalytic converters over the last few years across the country.
FOX 5 San Diego says the number of reported catalytic converter thefts rose from 1,300 in 2018 to more than 52,000 in 2021, an increase of 1,215%, according to Carfax, and the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) says catalytic converter thefts have seen a significant increase since the start of the pandemic.
All vehicles manufactured after 1974 contain a catalytic converter, a device essential to a vehicle’s exhaust system.
Its purpose is to convert toxic exhaust emitted by an engine into more environmentally friendly gases.
Hoping to sell high-in-demand metals, criminals often use a jack and a grinder to steal catalytic converters in minutes to turn a quick profit.
The crime comes at a high cost for vehicle owners.
Many miss work and pay $1,000 to $3,000 out of pocket to fix their car.
Law enforcement officials say people should Park in areas where your vehicle will be seen, in secure and well-lit areas.
According to CARFAX, thieves target these vehicles most in California:
- 2001-21 Toyota Prius
- 1985-2021 Ford F-Series
- 1989-2020 Honda Accord
- 1990-2022 Ford Econoline
- 1999-2021 Chevrolet Silverado
- 2007-20 Subaru Outback
- 2007-17 Jeep Patriot
- 2003-11 Honda Element
- 1998-2020 Subaru Forester
- 1995-2021 Toyota Tacoma