In the past catalytic converter replacement was a hot topic – thieves were stealing catalytic converters in such numbers that manufacturers could not keep up with the demand for replacement units. Fortunately, things have gotten a bit better – not that catalytic converters do not get stolen, but between changes in the law, and catalytic converter shields, the number of vehicles requiring catalytic converter replacement has decreased.
Having said that, please keep in mind that the price of the precious metals that are used in catalytic converters remains high, so it is still necessary to take precautions:
- If you have not done so, call us to have a catalytic converter shield installed – it makes it difficult and time consuming for thieves to steal a catalytic converter, so they usually just go down the street looking for an easier target.
- Park you vehicle inside a garage, if possible.
- If the vehicle must be left outside overnight, park it near a street light, or if in a driveway, install motion-activated flood lights that will illuminate the car if someone approaches.
Should your vehicle’s catalytic converter be stolen, we offer catalytic converter replacement, along with remediation of any damage your car sustained during the theft (often the oxygen sensor gets damaged and will need to be replaced as well). Unfortunately we have extensive experience in catalytic converter replacement. Please be particularly cautious if you drive Toyota Prius or Honda Element, as they are the most popular targets of the thieves. Having said that, any vehicle may have its catalytic converter stolen – we even heard of a school that had its fleet of school buses stripped of catalytic converters overnight.
So just because the press and TV news no longer mention the topic, it does not mean your vehicle is safe. It is still important to take the precautions. And do keep us in mind for routine vehicle maintenance or repairs – Alvin’s Auto Center is a full service San Jose auto repair shop, and we have the depth and breadth of experience to work on most vehicles - domestic, Asian and European. You can call us to make an appointment, or if you find it more convenient, we offer appointments on our website.