You might have heard about the catalytic converter in your car, but did you know that those are a hot part for car thieves? Interstate Automotive wants you to know what catalytic converter theft is all about and why you should be aware of this huge problem.
Every Vehicle Is Vulnerable to Catalytic Converter Theft
You might tell yourself that your car isn’t a target for catalytic converter theft, but the reality is that if there’s a catalytic converter on your car at all, it’s vulnerable. This type of theft can happen very quickly and without a lot of fanfare. This is an expensive part, and it’s necessary for your car to have one in place.
Your Catalytic Converter Is Necessary
The reason your catalytic converter is so necessary is because of what it does. Exhaust fumes straight from the engine are extremely toxic. The beginning of the exhaust system funnels those fumes out of the engine and into the catalytic converter, which converts harmful fumes to slightly less harmful fumes that then work their way through the rest of the exhaust system.
Replacing the Catalytic Converter Is Expensive
Catalytic converters are an expensive part, which is part of why they get stolen. There are precious metals, specifically platinum, palladium, and rhodium, in the catalytic converter, which is why thieves are after these parts. But it’s also expensive for you to replace a stolen converter, not to mention repairing the damage that careless thieves leave behind.
You Have to Replace the Catalytic Converter
In case you think you can just hold off and replace a stolen catalytic converter whenever you can, that’s not an option. First of all, the car is going to be incredibly loud, which is your first sign someone has walked off with your catalytic converter. Second, your exhaust fumes would never pass an emissions test, and that’s a problem. It’s also possible that the missing catalytic converter created damage that lets exhaust fumes into the passenger compartment, which is incredibly dangerous for you and for anyone that rides with you.
If your catalytic converter gets stolen, contact the police and your insurance company right away. You’ll also need to line up repairs as soon as possible. Call us today at Interstate Automotive in Eau Claire, WI and we’ll help you to get your catalytic converter properly replaced right away so that your car and your passengers are both safe.