Their idea: put some paint on customers catalytic converters as they come through for service. Since the start of the year, Evanston has had more than 160. You could also check with your local police department to see if they have a catalytic convert theft and catch program to see if they offer a free etching during special theft prevention weeks. What makes this one of the best catalytic converter cleaners is that it offers all these functions at minimum prices. Catalytic converters, in addition to serving as vital components of many vehicles, play an important role. With time, these carbon deposits build up on catalytic converters, motors, and engines, increasing your car emissions. Even if one part does not function well, the entire operation can get ruined. And if you can find a catalytic converter shield for your vehicle you should highly consider that as well. The value of all three metals has increased in recent years. It is more common in lower-emission cars such as Toyota Priuses, Subaru Foresters, and Honda Elements because their valuable metals concentrations are higher in converters. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Best Bass Clip On Tuner Tested by Expert, Best Bass Fishing Spinning Reel Tested by Expert, Best Bats For 12 Year Olds Tested by Expert, Best Battery Powered Pool Vacuum Tested by Expert, Best Beach Tote For Moms Tested by Expert, Best Bee Trap Carpenter Bee Trap Tested by Expert, Best Brush For Painting Cabinets Tested by Expert. Each one uses a different design to protect your catalytic converter, and ranges anywhere from $130 all the way to $270+ depending on what you choose. 4 subscribers Subscribe Share 3.5K views 1 year ago I got my catalytic converter spray painted for free in under 5 minutes total at Victory Auto. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); TheHandyWood.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising & linking to amazon.com. Bruce Bekkerus, owner of A-1 Automotive and Transmission Service in Moorhead, Minn. said this past winter was the worst. Not too distinctive. With Cataclean by your side, you can enjoy improved engine performance, fuel efficiency, and reduced harmful emissions. What are common catalytic converter problems? You may find catalytic converter bottles of different sizes and capacities. With regular use of the OXICAT oxygen sensor and catalytic converter, you can keep the exhaust system of your vehicle clean. Passenger vehicle makes like Toyota, Lexus, and Honda models are highest on the list of vehicles most likely to be targeted, but any make and model of vehicle could be targeted. However, compare the prices and features while purchasing. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Due to a rise in catalytic converter thefts, on Saturday, November 20, the Evanston Police Department sponsored a free catalytic converter marking event in the Morton Civic Center parking lot. Then take the car for a drive to see if it improves. What are common catalytic converter problems? Matrix Contamination Different kinds of situations can lead to contamination of the catalytic converter, where the elements inside are no longer able to effectively trap carbon emissions. COVER 4X MORE AREA & GET A BIGGER BANG FOR YOUR BUCK! The Cat Clamp is a unique device that uses a combination of clamps and cables to create a type of catalytic converter cage.Miller CatShield or CCM Cat Security Catalytic Converter Shield. One recommended way to. In case you opt for replacing this converter, it will cost you about $2000 at the least. Be sure to follow the directions on the bottle carefully. Even if you own a car with modern engines, this will work perfectly well. PREMIUM QUALITY: Compatible with the 2012-2017 Prius V. Featured in Toyotas associated parts catalog as the one and only highly recommended Prius catalytic converter anti-theft device solution, available at dealerships nationwide. That's a tough question. The CRC Guaranteed to Pass cleaner is engineered to minimize carbon oxide, hydrocarbon, and nitrogen oxide emissions. Step #2 Engrave your VIN into the catalytic converter housing. 2023 Endeavor Business Media, LLC. Attach this to an area near your catalytic converter so that anyone jacking up your vehicle or simply messing around underneath it will set it off. It not only helps reduce emissions by cleaning up your fuel system but also stabilizes the fuel. You can install motion-sensitive lighting and cameras in your parking lot. . Be sure to follow the specific instructions for your etcher.Instead of etching the entire VIN, we recommend etching the last 8 characters of the VIN, along with the plate number. Make sure your car is always parked in well-lit areas and near entrances to buildings; also, make sure it is always moving. The rest of the VIN contains information about the make and model of the code, plus where it was built. It may also be on the dashboard on the drivers side as you look down from outside the car. Catalytic converter theft has shot up more than 3,800% in Seattle and King County over the past year. Your VIN number may also be obtained from your insurance card or insurance policy paperwork, vehicle title, or registration. There is no surefire way to prevent catalytic converter theft, but there are a few things you can do to deter thieves. 01 Add TO CART MagnaFlow California CARB Compliant Manifold Catalytic Converter 5531284 A catalytic converter is a device that converts toxic exhaust gasses from an internal combustion engine into less-toxic pollutants. ), the age of the car, and the location of the car. Police in some communities have joined with local repair shops to sponsor etching events. The goal: deter thieves from taking the converters and selling them. Their idea: put some paint on customers catalytic converters as they come through for service. Another clever solution is to check out the ultra-destruct label system by Retainagroup. Jan 31, 2022. It is often used by your police department should they find a vehicle that contains etching.While we have not personally used this product, it seems like an easy way to mark your catalytic converter and register it. Required fields are marked *. The catalytic converters on electric cars are worth the most because they never get used and are therefore in the best shape 8 PersianExcurzion 1 yr. ago Fully Electric cars have no emissions that need converting, so they don't have a catalytic converter. Your email address will not be published. Closings. Already lost 1 catalytic converter to theft, trying to not lose another. Bruce Bekkerus, owner of A-1 Automotive and Transmission Service, stated that this winter was the worst he had ever seen. Because the underside of the vehicle is easier to access when a truck or SUV is raised higher off the ground, catalytic converter theft is a common target. However, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. Steel shield catalytic converter anti-theft device Steel Shields are not very expensive, and it is a shield that protects their converter and adds another layer of complexity to the thief. Owners frequently avoid reporting thefts due to the financial difficulty of covering the $1,500-$5,000 in costs. Clogged Cat Situations, Catalytic converter thieves move across jurisdictional lines and in many cases are committing other crimes such as auto theft, he said. Strategy 2: Install a catalytic converter anti theft deviceThe CatClamp. Some Pros and Cons of AUTOSAVER88 2.5 Inlet/Outlet Universal Catalytic Converter. The cleaner will mix with the gas and run through the catalytic converter as you drive the car. VHT SP123 Engine Enamel Chevy Orange Can - 11 oz. On Friday, RS Automotive on Carroll Avenue began providing free etching and painting of catalytic converters for the launch of Takoma Park police's "Etch & Catch" program. The brazen attempt happened Oct. 4 . The washcoat should be used for the dispersion of catalytic metals, as well as to prevent unwanted reactions between components of a complex catalytic system. The paint will probably stick for a while to the pipes, but it will most likely burn off the catalytic converter pretty fast. That number skyrocketed to 14,000 thefts in 2020. Catalytic converter protector provides a strong barrier against catalytic converter theft. However, there is still a significant amount of theft of converters, and the prices they fetch are rising. Sgt. If your converter is stolen and reported, we can track it back to the owner and help solve the crime if the catalytic converter is recovered . So, what is the best catalytic converter anti theft device? Lowers soot forming particulate emissions, LESS SOOT BUILD-UP. They also reduce the amount of toxic compounds emitted by automobiles. There is no definitive answer to this question as there are a number of factors that can contribute to why a particular car might be targeted for catalytic converter theft. Experts often recommend marking your car's catalytic converter to deter thieves. It is often used by your police department should they find a vehicle that contains etching. Because the precious metals contained in these converter are safe, they can be recovered and sold if they are stolen. Choosing a cleaning solution that covers the whole exhaust system will ensure the perfect working of your vehicle engine. In order to help deter theft of catalytic converters, the Roseville Police Department has partnered with local automotive businesses to provide free engraving and painting of catalytic converters. Yes. https://www.facebook.com/RatchetAndWrench, https://www.instagram.com/ratchetandwrench/, https://www.linkedin.com/groups/4447458/profile. In addition, it is important to follow the manufacturers instructions for proper application and drying times. Another significant factor that you must consider while buying a catalytic converter cleaner is its price. According to a recent report, the theft of catalytic converters in the United States has increased. The ceramic element in a catalytic converter is usually covered in precious metals. Consult your states aftermarket converter regulations for details. If you just keep driving your car with a bad catalytic converter, it will probably stop running after a while because the exhaust needs somewhere to go. The catalytic converters are engraved with either the vehicle's license plate number or last five digits of the VIN, which make it identifiable if recovered. It felt like every day another vehicle was rolling in, in need of a catalytic converter replacement as the city of Moorhead, like many throughout the country, was hit hard by the rampant theft of the valuable auto part. Reduces soot build-up inside of catalytic converter, LESS REGENE CYCLES. Heat up to 500 degrees. They are reasonable, effective in minimizing emissions and also improve the overall performance of your vehicle. In announcing the arrests, police shared a photo of a large amount of catalytic converters piled in the middle of a living room. What are you waiting for? Thieves target catalytic converters because of the precious metals contained within the devices are worth more than gold ounce for ounce. You need to empty the 16 oz bottle into the 16-gallon tan and use-up the fuel and cleaner. You are looking for a cleaner to treat your catalytic converter. They clean the entire exhaust system, including carburetors, oxygen sensors, valves, passageways, and more. The City said the results of a Catalytic Converter Crackdown involving spray-painting the car parts to deter theft have revealed hopeful news for car owners afraid of a costly bill associated with So you need paint designed for really hot surfaces. You still have options. Don't bother.it wouldn't last 5 minutes in combat. NOISE/VIBRATION/THERMAL TESTING: Multiple design upgrades were made to ensure 1) reduction in rattling/noise/vibrations and 2) proper airflow for optimal heat extraction using stamped louvers to damage your catalytic converter. Why do catalytic converter turn red? A ceramic honeycomb is found in a metal casing. Therefore, choosing a catalytic converter cleaner is the optimum solution. With a saw or a piece of metal, you can quickly and easily remove catalytic converters. Thieves hope to make a big payday by melting down the precious metals found in the anti-pollution devices - namely, platinum, palladium, and rhodium. Having your vehicles catalytic converter etched (or marked) is a theft prevention method that makes it harder for a thief to resale the catalytic converter to legitimate scrap metal, or parts dealers.When a catalytic converter is etched with your vehicles identification number (known as its VIN number) and/or license plate number in a highly visible spot, it is believed to help deter thieves and reduce the chance of your catalytic converter being stolen.You can buy a commercial catalytic converter etching kit, or follow our DIY solution below which just involves a can of high-temperature paint and a cheap engraving tool. Then spray paint a warning on the heat shield. Make your catalytic converter standout. If you clearly mark your catalytic converter, it will be more difficult for the thieves to steal it. Oil change company, IM3 Oil & Lube, painted catalytic converters and carved VIN numbers into the metal to help prevent theft. Theoretically with the marking, auto parts stores and , In this video, see how to find your catalytic converter and how to paint and etch your catalytic converter with our DIY steps.We recently had our catalytic c, I got my catalytic converter spray painted for free in under 5 minutes total at Victory Auto Service and Glass (I went to the location in Wyoming, MN) using , You will need the following:Replacement catalytic converterRatchet and socket setOxygen sensor socketPenetrating oilJack stands, What Is the Catalytic Converter?Overheating One of the most common issues with the catalytic converter is overheating. Fite recommends spraying your whole catalytic converter, end to end, with bright, high-temperature paint. Catlock. People Also Searches why paint your catalytic converter, Police Look To Spray Paint To Curb Catalytic Converter Thefts Video Answer, catalytic converter high temperature paint, does painting catalytic converter stop theft, Why is water leaking from my catalytic converter, Would you know if your catalytic converter is bad, Would there be a problem removing catalytic converter, Would the fuel injectors cause the catalytic converter to fail, Would the catalytic converter make 2002 buick regal hesitates, Would replacing my catalytic converter also fix my faulty transmission. Proper preparation ensures that the paint will adhere properly and your etching will stick out. Honda. These compounds transform hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide, and nitrogen oxides the bad stuff into oxygen, nitrogen, and carbon dioxide in the process. The whole idea is to make it more trouble than its worth to steal and resale catalytic converters. Thieves Prefer Late Model Trucks and SUVs. Categories: If your catalytic converter has signs of rust, wear, or is oily, you can use a little bit of sandpaper and cleaner to clean it up a bit, especially if you plan on spray painting your converter with high heat paint before etching. Another fantastic thing about Cataclean is that it is legal in over 50 states. The best catalytic converter cleaners will not require you to add a lot of this solution to clean the fuel system.