Catalytic Converter: How the device helps reduce emissions
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Thefts of the exhaust emission control device peaked in March 2021, with 3,245 recorded in the UK, but have steadily declined since. Less than 1,400 thefts were recorded in July, which came after a surge in price of precious metals saw theft booming at the start of the year.
A joint effort between the police and risk management company Smartwater Group, resulted in a strong decrease in thefts.
They utilised forensic technology, which is invisible to the naked eye, but glows yellow under UV light, unlike the etching of serial numbers, which can be clearly seen by the criminals and removed easily by simply scraping with a screwdriver.
Experts from heycar have compiled a list of other methods that can be used to help prevent thefts of catalytic converters.
One of the best tips is for drivers to always park cars close to fences, walls or kerbs, to make the thefts more difficult.
This is because to be able to steal the parts, criminals need to slide under the vehicle and use cutting tools to detach the box from the pipes around it.
Drivers are also advised to park their vehicle in a garage, or if they do not have one, next to another car, such as in car parks or multi-storeys.
As with any kind of car theft prevention, motorists are advised to park in well-lit areas, the chances of thieves being brave enough to attempt to steal the converter are incredibly low.
As previously mentioned, Smartwater technology can also be used, with the company starting to roll the technology out to garages around the country.
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It is set to cost a few pounds and can be applied when the car is taken for an MOT.
Whilst at the garage, if the catalytic converter is bolted on, drivers can ask to weld the belts to make it more difficult to remove.
Road users can also install security systems to help cut down on the chances of having their possessions stolen.
When parking on their own driveway, security cameras or doorbell cameras could be used, or even wildlife trail cameras.
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