Car theft has recently risen across the country
If possible, avoid parking on streets and instead try to park in a well-lit area.
If you have to park on a street, it’s best to choose one with high traffic. Thieves are targeting streets that don’t get a lot of foot traffic and that don’t have good lighting.
Unsurprisingly, certain types of cars were particularly vulnerable to theft. These tended to be older cars with less theft prevention technology.
Catalytic converters are gold for thieves
The rising theft of catalytic converters comes down to one simple factor: money. David Glawe, president and CEO of the NICB, has explained this trend as follows: "As the value of the precious metals contained within the catalytic converters continues to increase, so do the number of thefts of these devices. There is a clear connection between times of crisis, limited resources, and disruption of the supply chain that drives investors towards these precious metals."
Tips to avoid being the next car theft victim
Though it's impossible to completely eliminate the threat of vehicle theft, there are some things you can do to lower the risk. First and foremost, try to park in well-lit and well-trafficked areas. Don't let thieves lurking in the shadows nab your ride.
Finally, if you're particularly concerned about protecting your catalytic converter, there are various devices that can assist. Best Life explains, for example, that you can buy steel shields that fit over the converter to thwart thieves or delay their work.
There are also high-strength steel cages to go around the part, as well as stainless steel cables that can be welded from the catalytic converter to your car frame.
Prices for these devices can run anywhere from $250 to $800, depending on what you choose. While that may seem steep, the alternative of replacing a stolen catalytic converter will cost significantly more: likely from $1,000 to $3,000.
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