What Is a Catalytic Converter?
A catalytic converter breaks apart pollutant gases into less harmful substances before the gases exit your vehicle. The converter is a metal cylinder that can be found on the underside of your car and has two metal pipes coming out of it. One of the pipes is connected to your vehicle's engine and brings in pollutants from the engine's cylinders. As these gases pass through the catalytic converter, they are broken apart and converted into safer gases that are then released safely out of the exhaust in the rear of your vehicle.
Why Are Catalytic Converters Being Stolen?
Not only are catalytic converters great at reducing pollution, but they also contain precious metals such as palladium, rhodium, and platinum. These metals can be sold for a hefty sum on the black market, making catalytic converters targets for theft. Unfortunately, catalytic converters are also in a place on your vehicle that is easy to access. There are, however, ways to prevent your catalytic converter from getting stolen.
How Can I Keep My Catalytic Converter From Getting Stolen?
We at Brach's Auto Center in Cook County know that you want what's best for your vehicle. We are knowledgeable about the different ways to protect your catalytic converter and can provide installation for any of the following methods:
Catalytic converter cages: While replacing a catalytic converter can cost well over $2,400, installing a catalytic converter cage is only $250-$800. Our Reliable technicians have installed many of these cages in vehicles from Chevrolet, Ford, and more.
Catalytic converter shields: This anti-theft device completely covers the catalytic converter and is relatively affordable to install.
Cables attached to catalytic converters: These stainless-steel cables can be installed to connect your catalytic converter to your vehicle's frame, making the catalytic converter much more difficult to steal.
VIN etching: Another option is to etch your license plate number or your vehicle's VIN number onto the catalytic converter. This makes the catalytic converter traceable for law enforcement.
Other preventative actions that you can take are:
- Park your car inside a garage if you can.
- Park in a well-lit area, preferably with cameras around.
What Should I Do If My Catalytic Converter Is Stolen?
If you start your car and hear a loud noise from the exhaust, it may mean that your catalytic converter has been stolen. Here are some steps you can take if this happens (in addition to calling Brach's Auto Center at 773-238-0606:
- Ask your local auto repair shop if it is safe to drive without your catalytic converter. If it is unsafe, drive only to the auto repair shop.
- File a police report.
- Call your insurance company
- Take pictures of the damaged exhaust pipe where your catalytic converter used to be and contact your insurance company.
- While your new catalytic converter is being installed, consider adding anti-theft protection (options outlined above) to it to prevent future theft.
Chicago's top source for auto repair - Your Expert Shop for Catalytic Theft Protection
Whether you drive a car from BMW, Chevrolet, Dodge, Ford, or any other make, protecting your catalytic converter is essential for peace of mind and safety. At Brach's Auto Center, we specialize in auto repair, brake repair, and catalytic theft protection. Our Quality service technicians can advise you on how to protect your catalytic converter and what steps you can take to prevent it from getting stolen. We have been taking care of vehicles since 1984, and our owner Tom Beaulieu and staff have a dedication to customer service. We have excellent ratings based on reviews from 814 satisfied customers. Our technicians are ASE Certified. Our services come with a 2/24,000 warranty.
Reasons You Should Do Business With Us:
If you notice something wrong with your vehicle, bring it to Brach's Auto Center in Chicago, where our technicians will do their best to service the vehicle. If you are in the 60643 area or nearby, feel free to arrange an appointment with us online or give us a phone call at 773-238-0606. Brach's Auto Center - Quality you Can Trust, at a Fair Price!.