Tuolumne County, CA… Catalytic converters contain valuable metals and can be relatively simple to steal. But, the cost on the victim is significant.

There are a few steps you can take to prevent your vehicles catalytic converter from being stolen. Thieves are criminals of opportunity. Follow these few directions and eliminate the opportunity.

• Park in well-lit and/or secure areas. Park in your garage, directly under street lights or have motion detector lights near your vehicle.
• Park in high traffic, publicly visible areas or near the entrance of the stores you are visiting.
• Purchase a highly sensitive vehicle alarm system so it activates at even slight movement.
• Speak with your mechanic about clearly marking your catalytic converter to make it traceable, and methods to secure it better.
• Talk with friends and family about these types of thefts and help everyone stay more aware.
• When you see suspicious activity, call law enforcement right away.
• Engrave your license plate number on the converter to make it traceable.

If your catalytic converter is stolen, you will know it as soon as you start your vehicle. Your vehicle will sound loud, similar to a motorcycle muffler.