Evanston Offers Free Catalytic Converter Marking For Residents

EVANSTON, IL — The Evanston Police Department will be hosting a free catalytic converter marking event next Saturday to help resident prevent theft.

The event will take place from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. at Jiffy Lube at 1941 Dempster Street on Oct. 11.

At the event, officers and Jiffy Lube staff will use spray paint to mark catalytic converters under vehicles. The paint will only be visible from the bottom of the car and does not affect the performance.

Markings on catalytic converters make investigations easier for law enforcement when they are reported stolen. It also makes it harder for thieves to sell the stolen part, authorities said.

Catalytic converters are commonly targeted by thieves because they contain precious metals. Due to elevated risk of theft, this event is limited to Honda, Toyota and Hyundai vehicles.

The event is free and open to Evanston residents, but pre-registration is required. Participants must provide proof of residency within Evanston at check-in.