Catalytic converter theft has become increasingly common in recent years, with thieves targeting vehicles that have these devices installed.
An emission control mechanism found in a car’s exhaust system is called a catalytic converter. Before the exhaust gases are discharged into the environment, it transforms dangerous contaminants in the exhaust gases into less dangerous ones. Catalytic converters are high-paying to criminals because they contain precious metals including platinum, palladium, and rhodium.
Insecure parking places including driveways, lots, and on-street parking are frequently the focus of thieves’ attention. The catalytic converter is swiftly removed from the car’s exhaust system using instruments like reciprocating saws or angle grinders. Following this, the stolen catalytic converters are sold to recyclers or scrap metal merchants who will separate the precious metals and resell them on the open market.
The Colorado Auto Theft Prevention Authority was given permission by the state legislature to offer financial assistance to catalytic converter theft victims. Theft of a catalytic converter frequently results in the temporary loss of a vehicle while repairs are done, incurs costs for replacement and installation, and may raise insurance costs.
In order to be eligible for catalytic converter aid program, candidates must:
Typically, catalytic converter aid programmes are made to help those who have had a catalytic converter stolen and are having trouble affording to replace the lost item. The following broad requirements may be utilized to meet the requirements for support under such a programme:
Proof of theft: If your catalytic converter was stolen, you might need to show proof, such a police record or an insurance claim.
Vehicle ownership: You must be the owner of a car with a title and registration from the Colorado Department of Revenue that had a catalytic converter stolen in Colorado and replaced either after February 7 or not at all.
Financial need: It could be necessary to provide proof that you are struggling financially and are unable to pay for a new catalytic converter.
Eligibility criteria: Possess insurance that will cover the theft of the catalytic converter from the car. The programme can have certain qualifying conditions, such residence requirements or income caps.
CatEtch label: In order to stop further theft, you have put or have agreed to affix a CatEtch sticker on the catalytic converter.
It’s crucial to remember that depending on the programme and the organization providing the assistance, the particular requirements for a catalytic converter aid programme may change. If you think you could be eligible for aid, you should look into the local programmes that are offered and go through the qualifying conditions.
Cost of Replacement
Depending on the make and model of the car, replacing a stolen catalytic converter may be expensive. Replacement prices can range from several hundred to several thousand dollars. Additionally, it may make a car fail its emissions test, which would incur fees or other consequences.
Assistance will be provided to vehicle owners who can finish the repairs by June 1. The awardees and prize amounts will be decided once a committee has reviewed the submissions at lockdownyourcar.org/catalytic-converter-assistance, which are open until March 31.
Conclusion
It is advised to park in well-lit, safe locations, set up an anti-theft device, or engrave the vehicle identifying number (VIN) on the catalytic converter to deter theft. To make the catalytic converter harder to steal, some individuals have additionally put security cages or shields around it.