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Catalytic Converter Crime Wave Grips the Country (How to Protect Yourself)

Rusty exhaust pipes in a residential outdoor setting with an orange car and dim lighting at night.

Catalytic converter thefts have been rising out of control across the country, and Inside Edition investigates this startling phenomenon.

Catalytic converter thefts are a growing problem in America, and Inside Edition investigates the sudden spike in crime – as well as what you can do to stay safe.

The catalytic converter has become a hot commodity for thieves looking for quick cash. They contain precious metals like palladium and rhodium, which sell for thousands of dollars an ounce.

Urban parking lot scene with two men engaged in car repair, one holding a power tool, blue and silver cars parked side by side, daytime lighting, urban setting.

With incredibly valuable metals there for the taking, brazen thieves operate during the day and night, quickly lifting a car and cutting off the catalytic converter before speeding away.

Crime has risen over 500% across the country, leaving nervous residents to wonder when they will be next. Fortunately, experts offer some tips to keep protect your car from thieves.

They suggest having your mechanic put a protective cover over your catalytic converter, or spray paint it bright colors, which makes it more difficult to sell. Overall, this is not a problem that will go away any time soon, so stay safe.