CATALYTIC CONVERTER THEFT
Tustin Police Department has noticed a rise in the theft of catalytic converters from vehicle exhaust systems. The most common vehicle types being targeted are Toyota Prius, Honda Element, and older model Honda Accords; trucks and SUV's have also been targeted due to the higher ground clearance, which allows for easier access underneath those vehicles.
WHY ARE CATALYTIC CONVERTERS TARGETED?
The metals used in the manufacturing of the catalytic converters are valuable. Catalytic converters contain platinum, rhodium, and palladium. Thieves will steal and sell the converters to scrap yards for several hundred dollars per piece, depending on the size of the converter and the current rate on the metals inside. Meanwhile, it can cost you, on average, up to $2000 to replace a catalytic converter. The lack of the catalytic converter results in poor vehicle function, and it is illegal to drive without one.
WHAT CAN YOU DO?
- Park defensively.
- Near brightly lit areas.
- Near windows at a business.
- Near security cameras.
- Research security devices for your vehicle type that you can attach to your catalytic converter, and get one installed.
- Etch your catalytic converter with your vehicle’s VIN number.
- This will help police identify your catalytic converter if it is stolen and then recovered.
- If your catalytic converter is stolen, file a police report immediately after you discover the theft.
ETCH YOUR CATALYTIC CONVERTER FOR FREE with our ETCH & CATCH program.
SEE below document for etch locations.
Catalytic Converter Theft Prevention Flyer
For questions or more information, contact Police Services Officer Jennifer Jones at 714-573-3391 or jjones@tustinca.org