Catalytic Converter

A catalytic converter is a device that uses a catalyst to convert

three harmful compounds in car exhaust into harmless compounds.

In a catalytic converter, the catalyst (in the form of platinum and

palladium) is coated onto a ceramic honeycomb or ceramic beads that
are housed in a muffler-like package attached to the exhaust pipe. The
catalyst helps to convert carbon monoxide into carbon dioxide. It converts
the hydrocarbons into carbon dioxide and water. It also converts the
nitrogen oxides back into nitrogen and oxygen.

Its 8.30 am and you get into your car or van, turn the key, it certainly
Doesnt sound right, that familiar hum has been replaced by a gravelly
Roar. This is a sign your vehicles catalytic converter has been stolen.
Youre yet another stunned driver wondering how and why it
Happened.

Across the country, thousands of

drivers are experiencing the same
awful surprise. With the
price of precious metals
sky rocketing, thieves
are helping
themselves to
stolen

Catalytic Converters that contain enough platinum, palladium

or rhodium to make it work the risk to cut it from the underbelly
of your vehicle and then sell this onto scrap yards. Meanwhile
victims are then left to deal with the aftermath.
 Steps for preventing
catalytic converter theft

Preventing catalytic converter theft on your vehicle is a matter

of common sense and some research.
1. Always park in well-lighted areas.
2. At shopping centres and other similar parking areas, park
close the entrance of the building, or near the access road
where theres a lot of traffic.
3. If you own or work at a business or factory, park within a
fenced area thats busy during the day and secured at
night.
4. Engrave your license plate number on the converter to
make it traceable. This can act as a catalytic converter
theft deterrent and help with local police investigations.
5. Purchase a vehicle security system, and make sure its set
to triggered with just the slightest motion.
6. Visit a local muffler shop and have the converter secured
to the vehicles frame with a couple of pieces of hardened
steel welded to the frame.
Check out the different types of catalytic converter theft
deterrent systems at your local auto parts shop or on the
Internet.

Loddon Valley Police Station, Rushey Way, Lower Earley, RG6 4PS
101the single number for Thames Valley Police or 999 in an emergency