Catalytic Converter Update 

Did you hear about another catalytic converter theft while waiting in line at the coffee cart? The problem has been growing for about a decade, but California lawmakers are finally doing something about it.

What is a catalytic converter?

The catalytic converter is a section of your vehicle’s exhaust system. The fumes created by the combustion in your engine flow through an exhaust manifold to the converter. Inside, precious metals interact with the smog. They trap nitrogen and other toxins and break the chemical bond from oxygen, which travels out the tailpipe as cleaner air.

Every gas-powered vehicle in California must have a functioning catalytic converter in order to pass a smog test and travel on the roads.

Why do thieves steal catalytic converters?

The precious metals found inside this part include palladium, platinum, and rhodium. All are very expensive to mine and process and are used in many different applications around the world. This means that the converters earn top dollar on the black market.

Also, it takes less than a minute for a well-equipped thief to chop the part out of your car. They simply slice through the exhaust pipes on either side of the unit using a battery-powered saw and then walk away.

Finally, until recently, once the piece was removed from a vehicle, there were no identifying marks to indicate where it came from–so there was no way to track the part back to its rightful owner. The police could not decide if it was even stolen.

What is California doing about catalytic converter thefts?

In 2023, the California legislature passed 3 new bills to help combat this epidemic.

First, Senate Bill 55 declared that any new or used car sold by a dealership in the state must have the vehicle identification number etched on the catalytic converter.

Next, Assembly Bill 1519 made it illegal to remove the VIN from a catalytic converter. Also, it limits the number of catalytic converters that a person can possess that have had the number removed.

Finally, Assembly Bill 641 changed the description of an automobile dismantler to include people who illegally remove catalytic converters from vehicles. This allows the thief to be brought up on criminal charges previously reserved for people who worked in black market chop shops.

Is my catalytic converter safe on my new or pre-owned SUV?

With the new laws, thieves will be looking for the VIN on any catalytic converters they want to steal. So, you should be covered if you bought any vehicle from a reputable dealer after January 1, 2024.

How do I protect my older ride?

If you are worried about your current car, you can bring it into one of our Service Centers at the Beach Boulevard of Cars to have the VIN etched onto your existing converter. Give your shop a click or call to schedule it today.