Catalytic Converters Cut From Cars In Wheaton: Cops

WHEATON, IL — Thieves in Wheaton are targeting an easy source of income that can be cut from your car's exhaust system in seconds and cost you hundreds of dollars to replace: catalytic converters. The offenders use a saw to remove them and then later sell the parts for a profit. In late September, two separated incidents of catalytic converter theft were reported.

Police say the first catalytic converter theft took place some time between Sept. 21 and 25 in the 100 block of Bridge Street and the second theft took place on the 400 block of Howard Street between Sept. 25 and Sept. 26.

Thieves often steal catalytic converters —part of the car's exhaust system— because these parts often contain platinum, rhodium, or other precious metals that can turn a profit at scrapyards. Catalytic converter thieves are known to target vehicles late at night or early in the morning under the cover of darkness.

If a catalytic converter is stolen, your car will make a loud roar when it runs and you'll notice part of your exhaust system is missing when you look under your car.

To help prevent catalytic converter theft, mechanics recommend parking in a well-lit spot or in a garage or installing a security device on the catalytic converter itself. You can also etch your car's VIN into your catalytic converter to make it easier to track down at scrapyards in the event that it is stolen.

If you have any information about the recent catalytic converter thefts, contact Wheaton police at 630-260-2161.

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