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The San Jose Police Department has come up with an idea that, the hope, will thwart the rising cases of catalytic converter thefts.
It’s called “Etch and Protect”. Auto mechanics have been enlisted to engrave license plate numbers on converters for free when cars are in for repairs or maintenance. Hopefully that action will deter thieves.
The precious metals in the converters can fetch several hundred dollars from recyclers. Replacing a converter can cost over $1000.
Here are some tips to prevent converter thefts:
- “Park your vehicle inside your garage or in a secure side yard,
- If you have to park outside, leave on exterior lights or install motion detector lights.
- Get your catalytic converter etched with your license plate number. San Jose and Catch Department’s Etch and Protect Program partners will provide free etching of your license plate number on your catalytic converter while they are doing other maintenance work on your vehicle and have the car on a lift.
- Install a cage around your catalytic converter or have additional metal welded to your exhaust system. This makes it more difficult for thieves to remove the catalytic converter.
Jack & Carolyn talked about this on the Morning Breeze. Listen here: