Catalytic Converter Thefts on Upswing in Fredericksburg: Police

FREDERICKSBURG, VA — A rash of catalytic converter thefts from vehicles, as well as the theft of a muffler, have been reported since Saturday, according to Fredericksburg Police.

Each vehicle was parked in an apartment complex lot.

The catalytic converter thefts occurred in the 2500 block of Carriage Lane, the 700 block of Cobblestone Boulevard and the 1100 block of Heritage Park Drive.

The muffler theft occurred in the 100 block of Heritage Park Drive.

Catalytic converters use precious metals to reduce the danger of vehicle emissions, and the metals can return thieves $100 to $150 each at scrap yards. Replacement costs can reach up to $1000.

Vehicles with high ground clearance, including SUVs and trucks, are especially vulnerable to thieves who crawl under these vehicles late at night and quickly cut the converters from a vehicle’s undercarriage with a battery-operated saw.

In early Jan. 2015, unknown burglars pulled catalytic converters off of eight cars in a Manassas parking lot.

To prevent your catalytic converter from being stolen, here are a few ideas:

• Always park in a well-lit, high traffic area.
• Many muffler shops can secure your converter to the vehicle’s frame by welding in some pieces of hardened steel.
• There are several catalytic converter theft deterrent systems available through your local auto parts store or online.
• Engrave your vehicle’s license number or Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on your catalytic converter to make it traceable (factory parts are marked only with the general part number).

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