Catalytic converter theft protection advice

Most vehicles have catalytic converters, which can be stolen for the value of the precious metals or illegally re-sold.

We’ve seen a recent spate in catalytic converter thefts across the county.

Thieves tend to target hybrid cars – including models such as the Toyota Prius, Auris, Honda Jazz and Lexus – as the value of their converter is higher and they can be accessed more easily with a jack.

The simplest way to prevent catalytic converter theft is to put your vehicle in a garage or secured area if you have one. Alarms, lighting and CCTV can also help to deter thieves.

Other ways to protect your vehicle include:

• buying and fitting a protection device specifically to cover the catalytic converter
• installing motion-activated lighting if you park your vehicle on a driveway, but if this isn’t possible, park it in a well-lit, busy area
• using your vehicle's alarm or installing a Thatcham approved alarm, which should activate if the vehicle is tilted or lifted
• ensuring your dashcam is set to detect movement
• looking out for anyone ‘working’ or acting suspiciously under vehicles (particularly in busy car parks)
• avoid parking half on and half off the pavement as this makes it easier for thieves to access underneath the vehicle

In addition, if you are going to be visiting somewhere for a long period of time (e.g. a supermarket), we would advise you to park so it is difficult for thieves to lift your vehicle.

Marking kits can also be purchased, which alls/immovable objects makes it harder for the thieves to lift the vehicle. Also, marking kits are available. Marking can assist police investigations as converters can be tracked back to the vehicle they came from if located.  

Please call 101 to report any  incident and always dial 999 if you see a crime in action.