It used to be car stereos. But today Thieves changed purpose. Cars are being attacked more and more often catalysts, rich in rare materials…

Thefts of catalytic converters are increasing

According to a recent estimate German association ADAC (association for the protection of the interests of drivers), v theft of catalytic converters have grown steadily in recent years. Between 2017 and 2022 this number multiplied by 27 by the Rhine And it can be assumed that there are many more unregistered cases.

If criminals are increasingly attacking exhaust gas purifiers, it is mainly for one reason. The raw materials they contain can be resold at very favorable prices. If the old catalyst is recycled, the precious metals obtained in this way can be resold to car manufacturers. With Fr five grams of platinum and a few more grams palladium and with rhodium, thieves can get several hundred euros for a catalytic converter in landfills!

#BellesAffaires 🚨 Dismantling of a network specializing in the theft of SR Rennes and BR Chatolain catalytic converters #Brittany
➡️ Seizure of 89 catalytic converters on the scrap trade, 13 pans and cutting equipment from the thieves’ homes;
➡️ 7 arrests. pic.twitter.com/K8L7sHAKHO

– National Gendarmerie (@Gendarmerie) July 6, 2022

Prices for goods are skyrocketing

Diesel vehicles are largely exempt from catalytic converter theft. In both 2021 and 2022, the proportion of catalytic converter theft was only 3%, according to ADAC’s estimate. This mainly applies to cars with gasoline engines.

The study highlights that even old catalytic converters are a lucrative business for thieves. The precious metals they contain remain unchanged even after decades. And to get access to it, unfortunately, there is nothing easier. Often it does not take even a minute to commit such a theft, as evidenced by numerous surveillance videos of such acts. As soon as you start, the unusual noise at the level of the exhaust line allows you to immediately determine whether you have become a victim of theft or not.

In addition, since the catalytic converter does not clean the exhaust gases, the car loses its roadworthiness and can no longer be used on public roads. If the catalyst is stolen, the car must be transported to the garage on a trailer or tow truck. Then we have to count from several hundred to several thousand euros per replacement !