Iowa Vehicle Owners Warned After Increase In Catalytic Converter Thefts

If you own an RV, bus, box truck, work truck, or any other large vehicle, and it's been parked in storage for a while, you may want to look under it before starting it next time.

Get our free mobile app

The Dubuque Police Department has recently warned residents about an increase in catalytic converter thefts in the area, particularly involving larger vehicles. While the recent reports are coming from eastern Iowa, crime knows no borders and this same theft is likely being done elsewhere in the state. Let this warning serve as a good reminder for vehicle owners. I'll fill you in on the why and how of these catalytic converter thefts.

According to police, larger vehicles can be especially attractive targets because they are often stored for long periods of time, making it easier for thieves to access. Unlike many passenger cars, vehicles like RVs, buses, and commercial trucks sit higher off the ground, allowing criminals to quickly slide underneath and remove the catalytic converter without needing special equipment. Some removals take minutes and thieves will even use a reciprocating saw to cut the part free from your vehicle. If you thought your big ride was loud before, just wait until you start it without that converter hooked up.

These thefts are actually driven by the value of the metals found inside catalytic converters. The devices contain small amounts of platinum, palladium, and rhodium, all of which are valuable precious metals. While the converter itself may not look like much more than a hunk of metal to most, thieves can make a profit by selling the stolen parts. All they leave you with is a costly repair bill.

Credit: Unsplash / Tahamie Farooqui

Seriously, it's not a cheap fix. Depending on the vehicle, replacing a catalytic converter can cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Beyond the expense, owners can find themselves without a working vehicle while waiting for parts or repairs. The warning is especially relevant during the summer months when many RVs and busses are parked between trips. A vehicle that isn't checked or used regularly can become an easy target for thieves.

Owners hoping to prevent thefts should routinely check on stored vehicles and equipment, park in well-lit areas whenever possible, and use security cameras to monitor parking lots and storage locations. Owners who have access to enclosed, secured facilities should consider moving vehicles indoors when they won't be used for an extended period of time. In many cases, a theft doesn't take long; thieves can remove a converter in just a few minutes. That means any suspicious activity around parked vehicles should be reported. If you see people crawling underneath vehicles, lingering around storage lots, or acting suspicious near parked equipment, contact local law enforcement.

While the latest warning comes from Dubuque, the message applies to vehicle owners throughout Iowa. Taking a few extra precautions now could prevent a costly, very loud surprise the next time you start your vehicle.