Wilmington Police Warn Of Catalytic Converter Thefts!
Thefts of catalytic converter are approaching epidemic levels here in Wilmington Delaware.
The problem is widespread; across the region and the nation.
This week Wilmington Police told WJBR they continue to receive reports of catalytic converter thefts.
You may of heard people talk about this for a few years now, but do you know what they do? Well yes, it’s a car part! According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau;
“A catalytic converter is a device that looks like a small muffler along the exhaust system. It is designed to convert the environmentally hazardous exhaust emitted by the engine and convert them into less harmful gasses. To do this, they use platinum, palladium, or rhodium. In recent years, however, the values of these precious metals have skyrocketed.
Removing a catalytic converter takes only minutes using some basic, readily available battery-operated tools from a local hardware store. For the vehicle owner, it’s costly due to the loss of work, finding and paying for alternate transportation and then paying anywhere from $1,000 to $3,000 to get your car fixed.”
Wilmington Police warn of catalytic converter thefts from all over the city.
CARFAX, a leading source of vehicle data, has identified the following vehicles as most likely to have their catalytic converters stolen nationwide:
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1985-2021 Ford F-Series
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1989-2020 Honda Accord
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2007-2017 Jeep Patriot
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1990-2022 Ford Econoline
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1999-2021 Chevrolet Silverado
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2005-2021 Chevrolet Equinox
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1997-2020 Honda CR-V
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1987-2019 Toyota Camry
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2011-2017 Chrysler 200
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2001-2021 Toyota Prius
Additionally, the National Crime Bureau offer the following tips;
- Park vehicles, if possible, in a garage. If not possible, park in well-illuminated areas when possible. Fleet trucks and vehicles should be parked in an enclosed area that is secured, well-illuminated and locked if possible.
- Consider installing a catalytic converter anti-theft device. These are available from various manufacturers and can provide a level of security from theft. If your car has a security system, ensure the sensitivity is high. This ensures that the alarm will activate if a thief tries to cut off your converter.
- Installing video surveillance or motion sensor lighting around your garage or driveway is also helpful.
Wilmington Police say report thefts as soon as possible. Anyone with information about catalytic converter theft incidents can also contact Detective Joran Merced at (302) 576-3637 or Joran.Merced@cj.state.de.us .
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