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Catalytic converter thefts |
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Dear Resident,
3 incidents of Catalytic converter thefts occurred in your area between TUESDAY 21st APRIL evening and WEDNESDAY 22nd APRIL early morning. The vehicles affected were HONDA JAZZ, TOYOTA PRIUS and BMW 1 SERIES parked on the following roads: We urge the residents to be extra vigilant. You can find further information on our website.
Catalytic converter theft has risen sharply due to the high scrap value of precious metals inside, such as platinum, palladium, and rhodium. These devices can be removed from under a vehicle in as little as 30 to 60 seconds.
High-Risk Vehicles Hybrids: Vehicles like the Toyota Prius and Honda Jazz are primary targets because their engines run less frequently, leaving the metals in the converter less corroded and more valuable. High-Clearance Vehicles: SUVs, vans, and pickup trucks like the Ford F-150 are vulnerable because thieves can easily crawl underneath without jacking the car up. Targeted Brands: Police data highlights Lexus, Honda, and Toyota as the most targeted manufacturers. Prevention and Anti-Theft Products To deter thieves, consider installing physical barriers or marking the device: Shields and Cages: These metal plates or steel cages, such as the Catloc (approx. £186) or Pop & Lock CAT-RAP (approx. £180), make the converter significantly more time-consuming to remove. Forensic Marking: Etching your VIN number onto the converter or using a SmartWater pen makes the part traceable and much harder for thieves to sell to reputable scrap dealers. Tilt Sensors: Installing an alarm with a tilt sensor will trigger if a thief attempts to jack up the vehicle. Signs of Theft and Next Steps Immediate Signs: If your converter is gone, your car will produce an incredibly loud engine noise upon starting. You may also notice a loss of power or an engine warning light. What to Do: Do not drive the car, as it is illegal and potentially hazardous. Report the theft to the police to obtain a crime reference number and then contact your insurer. Cost: Replacing a stolen unit typically costs between £750 and £3,500 depending on the damage and vehicle model.
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