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Message: [QUOTE="Improviser, post: 4037930, member: 10683"] This came a moment ago in an email from my insurance carrier on catalytic converter theft, with some preventative tips. I know it is an after the fact thing. Sorry for your loss. [I]What is the Catalytic Converter? The catalytic converter is a device that helps control your vehicle’s emissions, by converting hazardous exhaust to less harmful gasses. It’s part of your exhaust system, and usually located between the engine and your muffler. Catalytic converters contain precious metals, which thieves can sell to scrap metal recyclers. Are some types of vehicles more susceptible to catalytic converter theft? Hybrid vehicles, trucks and SUVs are popular targets. Because a hybrid car doesn’t use the gas engine as often, the catalytic converter retains more of its precious metals. Trucks and SUVs can also be targets as it’s easier for thieves to slide underneath the vehicle where the converter is located. What can I do to help prevent the theft of my catalytic converter? • If you have a home garage, park your car inside and keep the garage door shut. If you can’t park inside, install motion sensing lights in your driveway. • No home garage? Consider a parking garage or other type of secured parking area. When garages are not an option, park in locations that are well-lit, highly visible and/or have security cameras, all of which may help dissuade would-be thieves. • If you have a high-riding vehicle (truck, SUV) back into parking spaces near lower profile cars, fences, bushes or other obstacles to make it more difficult to access underneath. • If you have a car alarm, set it to respond to vibrations. • Several specialized clamps and shields are now on the market to protect catalytic converters. Talk with a trusted mechanic or dealership to determine if one is right for your vehicle(s) • Talk to your local body shop about etching your vehicle’s VIN on the catalytic converter. VIN etching can help police identify the owner, aid in a criminal investigation, and alert metal recyclers that the catalytic converter may have been stolen. [/I] [/QUOTE]

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