Cars, trucks, vans, SUVs. They're used on a daily basis by most of us. They're an investment, they're our lifeline to get us to work, school, and different activities. It only makes sense that since they're in so many places thieves see an opportunity. Sure, there's the usual breaking of a window or door to get in and steal your valuables. But, bad guys also have their eyes on another piece of your car and it's getting some killed.

The catalytic converter.

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LOOK: WHY DO THIEVES TARGET CATALYTIC CONVERTERS ON YOUR VEHICLE?

Photo: Canva
Photo: Canva
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This part of your vehicle plays a big role, not only in smooth operation but to help protect the environment. A catalytic converter works off what's called a catalyst to help convert harmful emissions from your engine into safe gasses like steam.

So, why are these converters are so interesting to thieves? Money. Thieves know they can resell these converters for cash. You see the catalytic converter contains 3 different metals. Platinum, Palladium, and Rhodium. The price of these metals has risen greatly over the past few years. These metals are priced by the ounce. An ounce of platinum shot to $1,100 in 2021. An ounce of palladium climbed all the way to nearly $2,400 and rhodium increased the most at almost $18,000 in 2021. While that's some serious cash, it can also get you killed.

Recently a man was killed trying to steal a catalytic converter. According to Fox 11 in Los Angeles, a man in Palmdale, California was run over by a woman sleeping in her SUV. She was startled by the sound of the saw underneath. You can watch the news story from this incident below.

It's no wonder that junkyards actively search for catalytic converters to resell. There are even some companies that offer to buy your converter right out. While the value of specific ones varies, I've seen some listed anywhere from $150 to up to over $10,000.

Remember, if you see anything suspicious around your or someone else vehicle, you can report a tip to Abilene Crime Stoppers.

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