Catalytic converter thefts are on the rise in SC. Here are tips to protect your car
Catalytic converter theft is on the rise, according to law enforcement agencies in the Midlands.
Thieves are targeting the part of a vehicle’s exhaust system that turns toxic gases from engines into water and carbon dioxide. Inside, the catalytic converters can contain platinum, palladium, and rhodium — valuable metals as precious as gold.
In recent months, dozens of catalytic converters have been stolen in Richland, Lexington, Kershaw and Orangeburg counties and other places around South Carolina.
“Catalytic converter thefts are out of control,” Richland County Sheriff Leon Lott recently told The State. “It’s not a sexy crime that gets a lot of attention, but it’s very damaging to those who get one stolen. It can cost thousands of dollars to get your car repaired.”
While law enforcement agencies have reported several arrests of people accused of stealing catalytic converters, authorities are also offering tips to help reduce the chances of having a catalytic converter stolen.
“We recommend parking in visible, lighted areas as a first step in protecting yourself,” Capt. Adam Myrick of the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department told The State. “Parking near windows and security cameras is also helpful.”
Going one step further, the Columbia Police Department recommended parking in an enclosed garage at home, if possible.
Parking in an area with surveillance cameras is also recommended.
One thing to avoid is parking a car on uneven ground, including on a curb, Columbia police said. Having all four wheels on the same level makes it harder for thieves to gain access to underneath a vehicle.
Another preventative measure is making adjustments to your vehicle to further protect the catalytic converter.
“Ask your mechanic if your catalytic converter is a ‘bolt-on’ model. If so, check to see if the shop can can weld the bolts,” Myrick said. “There are also anti-theft devices that can be installed on catalytic converters.”
Anti-theft devices include metal cages that cover the converter, in addition to a clamp, and sensors that can activate an alarm, according to Columbia police.
In a similar move, it’s recommended to personalize a catalytic converter to make it easier to identify.
“Another extra step some can handle at home is etching some sort of identifying numbers or letters onto the catalytic converter,” Myrick said. “Choose your vehicle identification number, license plate number or other characters you can easily remember.”
If the catalytic converter is stolen and a scrap dealer spots the VIN or other information, the dealer can determine it was stolen and help investigators trace what happened and who owns the converter, the Columbia police said.
One other tip is reporting suspicious cars in your neighborhood and the theft to your local law enforcement.
Without getting under a car, there are some signs that would indicate the catalytic converter is missing.
Listen for a loud roaring sound when the engine is started, and a sputtering sound when changing speed, according to the Columbia police. Also take note if the vehicle doesn’t drive smoothly.
“You’ll know that a catalytic converter was stolen from your vehicle right after you start the engine,” police said.
This story was originally published May 11, 2021 at 10:10 AM.
