Recently in California, catalytic converter theft has skyrocketed. To help combat this problem, the Livermore Police Department is once again teaming up with Las Positas College to host a free catalytic converter etching event on September 17 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Catalytic converters are an essential emission control part that is inspected during smog checks. They are made with rare metals that are responsible for converting smog-causing pollutants that pass through a vehicle’s exhaust system into less harmful substances, and because of their high recycle value, theft of these converters has become increasingly common.
The Livermore Police Department and Las Positas College will inscribe your license plate numbers onto your catalytic converter, which will help the Livermore Police be able to identify your vehicle’s catalytic converter if it does end up stolen, and will also help to deter theft. They will be hosting this event at the Las Positas College Automotive Department on Loop Road, behind building 3500. There are no appointments available, it is a first come, first served event. The last vehicle in line at 3 p.m. will be the last serviced, as waits may take up to an hour. This event is open to everyone, regardless of your residency.
Between 1 to 2 minutes, using basic tools, experienced thieves can remove a catalytic converter with ease. Simple replacements, if you have a universal fit converter, a muffler might be able to weld one for only about $300. Having a new catalytic converter installed can average between $2,224 and $2,309, depending on your vehicle’s age, the fit of your converter, and where you get one placed in your vehicle. Due to supply chain shortages during the COVID-19 pandemic and the market value of these precious metals commonly found in converters, the value of them has increased drastically over the last few years. Marketing up to $20,000 per ounce Rhodium, which reduces nitrogen oxide in the exhaust gas, is especially valuable and is why thieves often steal catalytic converters. Come to this local event if you want to help make your community a safer place to live, and assist the Livermore Police Department in deterring theft of catalytic converters.
–https://patch.com/california/livermore/livermore-catalytic-converter-etching-event-set-february
–https://www.bar.ca.gov/consumer/smog-check-program/catalytic-converter-theft
–https://www.marketwatch.com/guides/car-warranty/how-much-does-a-catalytic-converter-cost/
–https://www.recordnet.com/story/news/crime/2020/03/03/don-8217-t-be-easy/1599830007/
