Catalytic Converter Thefts Up, How To Protect Your Car In Shaker

SHAKER HEIGHTS, OH — Catalytic converter thefts are up nationwide and in Ohio, according to travel organization AAA. Shaker Heights police have tips to protect your vehicles from criminals.

Catalytic converters control vehicle emissions, converting pollutants into less toxic gasses, AAA said. Thieves target these devices because they usually contain valuable metals, like platinum, palladium or rhodium.

In 2018, there was an average of 108 catalytic converter thefts per month, according to the National Insurance Crime Bureau. The crime became more common in 2019 and 2020 before peaking in Dec. 2020, when there were 2,347 thefts.

“Thieves can remove a catalytic converter in a matter of minutes, and leave the vehicle owner with a hefty repair bill,” said Steve Miller, ASE certified technician and manager of the Grandview AAA Car Care Plus. “It can cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars to replace a catalytic converter, depending on the vehicle. Plus, you’ll often have additional damage that needs to be repaired when thieves hastily remove catalytic converters from cars.”

Tips to protect your car, from Commander John Cole of Shaker Heights police:

• Keep vehicle locked;
• Park inside your garage at home;
• Park vehicles near building entrances and well-lit areas when indoor parking is not available;
• Install surveillance cameras where vehicles are kept;
• Adjust your vehicle alarm’s sensitivity;
• Consider additional security systems and procedures.