SCOTS drivers are being warned to protect their cars from thieves stealing catalytic converters.
There’s been a surge across the UK of crooks pinching the exhaust emissions filter because it is made from precious metals. As the device is connected to the vehicle’s exhaust, it isn’t something motorists would think to check daily.
But you might mistake a missing converter for other problems – and its absence can cause further vehicle issues. Now online retailer Parts For All Cars has offered tips to help prevent theft and spot if it has been stolen.
It says getting your local garage to weld bolts on to the exhaust makes it much more difficult for the converter to be removed, while some car makes have their own locking systems for these concerns.
An easy solution is to block access to the exhaust system by parking close to fences or backing on to a driveway close to a wall as it makes things increasingly difficult for criminals and can prevent theft.
Installing a car alarm is a great way to keep your vehicle safe, especially when parked in busy public spaces such as supermarkets, which are increasingly being targeted.
Parking in well-lit streets and even installing CCTV cameras at home provide added reassurance.
If you fear your converter is missing, keep an eye out for black smoke exiting the muffler and listen to your exhaust as another job of the device is to minimise sound.
And, finally, check your exhaust – if you still have the filter then it should appear as a bulge between the exhaust and muffler.
● Toyota and Lexus are spending more than £1million in a bid to invisibly mark the converters on older cars owned by customers in the UK to help police fight the organised gangs responsible for the thefts.
