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Catalytic converter theft now accounts for three-in-ten of all theft claims

06 May 2021

Data from car insurance company Ageas shows that catalytic converter theft now accounts for three-in-ten of all theft claims, a significant rise from around one-in-five before the UK’s first lockdown of March 2020. 

You may already know that a catalytic converter is the part of a vehicle’s exhaust system which reduces toxic emissions and pollutants by catalysing a redox reaction – a chemical reaction which changes the oxidation state of atoms. 

However, thieves aren’t targeting catalytic converters for their functional purpose, but rather for the metals which they contain. The RAC says that the rate of thefts tends to increase in line with the value of these metals. The recent incline in thefts is likely due to a rise in the value of rhodium, which “hit a record-highs earlier this year, up more than 200 per cent since March 2020”, according to the RAC. 

Claims Director at Ageas Robin Challand said, “While catalytic converters are just one component of a car, their theft can often result in a driver’s car being written off which is the last thing we want for our customers.

"We hope that by shining a spotlight on this type of crime, we can arm motorists with the information they need to protect their vehicles.”

Simon Williams of the RAC said, “Drivers are often oblivious of their vehicle’s catalytic converter being stolen. Our patrols are often called to attend cars that have suddenly become excessively noisy.

"On investigation it’s very often the case that the car’s catalytic converter has been stolen.

“We’d strongly recommend motorists get in the habit of taking extra precautions to guard against this type of crime. Generally speaking, most car crime takes place at night, so it makes sense to park a vehicle in a well-lit and residential location, or ideally in a garage if available.

"When away from home, look for car parks that have security patrols and are covered by CCTV. It’s also a good idea to look for the ParkMark logo at car parks as this shows they have met certain security standards.

“But unfortunately, as Ageas’ data shows, even taking sensible precautions may not necessarily make you immune to this type of crime. For this reason, having a strong, comprehensive insurance policy is a vital in case the worst happens.”

Thefts involving elements of motor vehicles are of significant interest to us at Marshall Leasing, and to people who are responsible for fleets. We trust that you find this information useful. If you would like to find out more about how we can assist with your fleet requirements, please get in touch with us at info@marshall-leasing.co.uk or by calling 01480 414541. 

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