Berkeley Auto Repair

There are thieves everywhere… in terms of vehicle theft, there are many reports that happen every day. Most people assume vehicular theft will consist of windows being broken and items are stolen from inside. However, there are instances where a part of the car is taken as well.

The catalytic converter is quickly becoming one of the most popular parts of a car that is stolen. It has increased dramatically just in the last year and is becoming an issue for many in the Berkeley area. This may be since it is easily accessible to thieves, and it's a part that will be profitable for them.

The catalytic converter of your vehicle is what turns dangerous pollutants into harmless gases. It aids with the exhaust system and can be found near your engine's exhaust manifold. Usually, it's very easy for you to see the catalytic converter from underneath your vehicle. Knowing that catalytic converters are a part that thieves go for all the time, there are things that you can do to make sure that your catalytic converter is prevented from being stolen.

There are some things that you can to do help prevent catalytic converter theft that is known to happen.

• Park in Well-Lit Areas: When you can park your vehicle in a well-lit area. It will make it so people don't have an opportunity to get underneath and take your catalytic converter.
   
• Park in Popular Areas: It can be near an entryway, or an area that is heavily populated. If more people are prone to be around, there's far less opportunity for theft of your catalytic converter.
   
• Keep Your Car Put Away: If you can and are able to, make sure you park your car in the garage and keep the garage closed if you can.
   
• Special Device: There are security devices specifically designed for the catalytic converter that you can have in place or you can even have your catalytic converter welded to the frame of your car. Often referred to as a Cat Shield, these devices are extremely successful in preventing the theft of a catalytic converter and can be installed. 

You want to do all you can to make sure that access to your vehicle's catalytic converter is extremely inconvenient and difficult. If you need a catalytic converter replacement or cat shield installation, give our auto repair shop a call today!