the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Ridgewood NJ, NJ Transit Police Report Catalytic Converter Thefts are on the Rise.
𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗶𝘀 𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗮𝗹𝘆𝘁𝗶𝗰 𝗰𝗼𝗻𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗳𝘁? 𝗜𝗺𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗮𝗻𝘁 𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗽𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝘁𝗲𝗰𝘁 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝘃𝗲𝗵𝗶𝗰𝗹𝗲!
Throughout the country, catalytic converter thefts are on the rise. Victims face costly repairs and a major inconvenience. In addition to our patrols of NJ Transit parking lots, we want your vehicle protected abroad as well. Please review these tips to help protect your vehicle. Share with friends and family to raise awareness.
𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗶𝘀 𝗮 𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗮𝗹𝘆𝘁𝗶𝗰 𝗰𝗼𝗻𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘁𝗲𝗿?
A vehicle’s catalytic converter helps to reduce harmful exhaust emissions by means of chemical reactions. Thieves are targeting catalytic converters (Cats) because they contain precious metals. The Cats are often removed relatively quickly.
𝗛𝗼𝘄 𝗰𝗮𝗻 𝗜 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝘁𝗲𝗰𝘁 𝗺𝘆 𝘃𝗲𝗵𝗶𝗰𝗹𝗲?
If you are parked at an NJ Transit station or facility, you may notice NJTPD officers on patrol and on the lookout. (STILL) REMAIN ALERT when leaving or returning to your vehicle. If you notice suspicious activity contact NJTPD 24/7 via text: 65873 or phone: 1-888-TIPS-NJT.
Park in well-lit areas that are close to building entrances whenever possible.
Install a vehicle alarm that is equipped with a tilt and vibration sensor. If the vehicle is already equipped with a security system, check to ensure that tilt and vibration sensors are activated and calibrated.
Install a catalytic converter protection shield or lock. These devices take extra time to be defeated making your vehicle a less desirable target.
When possible at home, park in a garage and lock your garage door.
No garage? install motion sensor lights and or cameras to monitor your parked vehicle.
Consider having your VIN number etched on the catalytic converter. This can aid in recovery.
𝗗𝗼𝗲𝘀 𝗶𝗻𝘀𝘂𝗿𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗰𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝗶𝘁?
Comprehensive coverage can help to cover the damage and replacement. A liability-only policy offers no protection for theft or related damages. Check with your insurance company to confirm you are covered.
The above information does not concern electric vehicles as they do not have catalytic converters.
Where are the catalytic converters being fenced?
Stop that and you stop the thefts.
It’s not that simple. Close on shop and another opens. Like playing whack-a-mole.
You’re never going to stop these thieves, stealing parts cars supply and demand. If there’s money to be made this is what happens, he keeps the police working