Catalytic Converters Stolen In Manassas: Police

MANASSAS, VA — Authorities are looking whoever stole catalytic converters overnight Wednesday at Swift Auto Recycling & Salvage, 14823 Dumfries Road in Manassas, according to Prince William County Police. They found no signs of force entry.

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 $1,000. 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, for example, 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).

Image via Prince William County Police