The primary function of a catalytic converter is to transform harmful pollutants into harmless gasses so that it may serve as a first line of defense against hazardous exhaust emissions. Because the technology that is employed in these emission control devices contains several precious metals, such as platinum, palladium, or rhodium, these devices are a valuable object that might be stolen and resold.
Can you drive without a catalytic converter?
The answer to the question “can you drive without a catalytic converter” is that it is possible to operate a vehicle without a catalytic converter. The next inquiry that you need to make of yourself is, “Is it against the law to drive a vehicle that does not have a catalytic converter?” Do you reside in a region where it is against the law to operate a vehicle that does not have a catalytic converter? If you don’t have one, you won’t be able to pass an emissions test.
The catalytic converter, which is a component of the exhaust system of a vehicle, plays an important role in lowering levels of air pollution. Driving your vehicle without a catalytic converter installed will not in any way damage the engine or the vehicle itself. Even if your car works well without it, it is not always a smart idea to go about driving without one.
Driving a vehicle without a catalytic converter is not a major issue in most cases. There are several compelling arguments in favor of operating a vehicle without a catalytic converter, even if you just need to do so for a limited amount of time. It is not uncommon for automakers to construct catalytic converters to be able to outlive the vehicle they are installed in.
Why Catalytic Converters Get Stolen?
According to a study by the National Insurance Crime Bureau, catalytic converters may be sold to recyclers for as low as fifty dollars, or they can be sold to metal dealers for thousands of dollars per ounce. Both of these prices reflect the current market.
The chance for thieves to obtain easy money is becoming more alluring as newer kinds of catalytic converters feature even more valuable metals than their predecessors did.
A seasoned thief can steal a catalytic converter in a matter of minutes, particularly if they have access to contemporary power tools. In addition, a catalytic converter does not have any tracking systems installed.
What Cars Are Targeted For Catalytic Converters?
Since catalytic converters were required to be installed in all fuel-powered vehicles made after 1974, there are a large number of automobiles now on the road that might be of interest to criminals looking to steal catalytic converters. However, thieves often target higher cars, such as pickup trucks or SUVs, since it is relatively simple for them to get under the vehicle and gain access to the catalytic converter.
According to Forbes, criminals find hybrid vehicles to be another appealing target for the theft of catalytic converters. Catalytic converters in hybrid vehicles produce a larger amount of precious metals than those in gas-powered vehicles due to the lower operating temperatures of hybrid vehicles.
How to Know if a Catalytic Converter Has been Stolen?
If you take a quick glance at your vehicle, you might not be able to tell that the catalytic converter was taken, but as you start the engine, you will know for sure. When the catalytic converter is removed from your car, the engine will emit a loud roaring sound that will get much louder when you press the gas pedal.
When you adjust the speed of your vehicle, it may create a sputtering sound, and you may also notice that the vehicle is not going smoothly.
There is a good chance that the catalytic converter has been stolen if there is an increase in the emissions or if the exhaust smells differently.
5 Ways to Protect Catalytic Converter From Theft
Take into consideration the following suggestions to assist you in preventing the theft of the catalytic converter from your vehicle:
- Find out whether the vehicle you drive is likely to be targeted: hybrids, SUVs, and trucks often feature catalytic converters that are either valuable or readily removed. If you engrave your vehicle identification number (VIN) or license plate number into your catalytic converter, you may increase the likelihood that a scrap dealer would realize it was stolen and get it returned to its rightful owner.
- You should park in places that are well-lit and near to public exits; you should also shift your vehicle’s position often or utilize a garage.
- Put in a gadget that will prevent theft.
- Place cameras and lights that turn on when motion is detected in your parking lot.
- Painting your catalytic converter will make it less appealing to potential purchasers.
The first step in protecting your vehicle from having its catalytic converter stolen is to become aware of the situations in which such a theft may occur. If you take all of these preventative steps, Please Also Read What Is Car Accident Lawyer Baltimore Rafaellaw.com you will lessen the likelihood that thieves will target your vehicle.
You now have a fair idea about “can you drive without a catalytic converter” and the relevant measures you can take to protect your car from a converter theft. The five ways mentioned above will surely help you in this regard.
