How Many Catalytic Converters Are Stolen Each Year?
Catalytic converters have become a prime target for thieves in recent years. These valuable auto parts are in high demand due to their high concentration of precious metals, such as platinum, palladium, and rhodium. But just how many catalytic converters are stolen each year? The number is shockingly high, and it continues to rise as the value of these metals increases.
According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB), there were over 20,000 catalytic converter thefts reported in the United States in 2020. This figure is a significant increase from the previous year, with the NICB reporting that catalytic converter thefts had increased by 400% from 2019 to 2020.
The rise in catalytic converter thefts can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, the value of the precious metals within the converters has skyrocketed in recent years. For instance, the price of platinum has nearly doubled since 2016, making it an even more attractive target for thieves. Additionally, the demand for electric vehicles has increased, leading to a higher demand for palladium and rhodium, which are also found in catalytic converters.
Unfortunately, the problem of catalytic converter thefts is not limited to the United States. In the United Kingdom, for example, there were over 11,000 thefts reported in 2020, and the trend is expected to continue as the value of these metals continues to rise.
The impact of catalytic converter thefts is significant. Not only do drivers face the inconvenience of having their vehicles disabled due to the loss of their catalytic converter, but they also incur substantial costs for repairs and replacements. Moreover, the theft of these converters can lead to environmental damage, as they are often discarded in unauthorized areas, causing pollution.
Several measures can be taken to prevent catalytic converter thefts. For one, installing a catalytic converter collar or lock can deter thieves. Additionally, using a catalytic converter protection device, such as a tracking device or a GPS system, can help recover stolen converters and hold the thieves accountable.
In conclusion, the number of catalytic converters stolen each year is alarmingly high, and the trend is only expected to worsen as the value of precious metals continues to rise. It is crucial for drivers to take steps to protect their catalytic converters and for authorities to increase efforts to combat this growing problem. Only through a combination of prevention, education, and enforcement can we hope to reduce the number of catalytic converter thefts and protect both the environment and the wallets of drivers.
