Back in 2019 we reported that there had been 13,000 thefts of catalytic converters which represented a 550 per cent increase from the previous year.
Skip forward to 2023, and reports reveal that more than 100,000 catalytic converters were stolen over the last three years alone.
So what has led to this unprecedented surge in thefts?
The huge spike in these thefts is perceived to be as a result of the value of the precious metals that are contained within catalytic converter.
Reports within the media suggest that scrap dealers believe the sale of these stolen items are taking place on the black market of the scrap world.
Catalytic converters contain expensive metals including platinum, palladium and rhodium, which over the years, has seen the value shoot up making them a lucrative item to sell on the black market and for scrap.
While usually found on cars with combustion engines, they also play an integral part within hybrid vehicles. Due to the nature of hybrid engines, the catalytic converters in these modern cars are often in better condition so by default have a higher value which has led to the huge surge in thefts.
So, if you have a one of these vehicles – a plug-in or self-charging hybrid car – please make sure you protect your car and reduce the chance of falling victim to this crime.
Here are some top tips to keep your car, and catalytic converter safe:
*Where possible, keep your vehicle locked in a garage, safely parked on your drive, or in front of your house close to the kerb
*Get your catalytic converter ‘marked’ so can be more easily identified if stolen and then found
*Consider getting a catalytic converter clamp to restrict the accessibility for thieves
*If your catalytic converter is attached by bolts – take your car to the garage and get them welded to make it even more difficult to be stolen
