Why You Need a Car Security System

Picture your busiest day. You’re running around town checking off all of the items on your to-do list. You have several places to go and only so much time in the day, but you’re making decent progress.

You spend an hour in the grocery store picking out food for your family and then load it into your vehicle quickly so you can make it home before the ice cream melts. But when you turn the key in your ignition, it sounds more like a Harley or a vintage hot rod than a late-model Ford. You’ll be able to make it home or to the mechanic, but with every mile, you’re damaging your engine. That’s because your catalytic converter has been stolen.

Unfortunately, catalytic converter thefts are on the rise across Minnesota, and it can cost you significantly if it happens to you. With a professionally installed car security system from Mobile Installation, you don’t have to worry about it happening to you.

What are Catalytic Converters?

Catalytic converters were first introduced in the 1970s. In 1975, they became mandatory in the United States for all vehicles. These emission-control devices are housed in a vehicle’s exhaust system and come standard on all vehicles today. Due to federal and state laws, removing, damaging, or modifying these devices deliberately is illegal.

A catalytic converter transforms common harmful pollutants including carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons into carbon dioxide and water, preventing toxins from entering the air. The device triggers a chemical reaction using precious metals like gold, palladium, rhodium, and platinum.

Catalytic Converter Theft

Thieves steal catalytic converters for the precious metals they contain. Depending on the type of metal inside a catalytic converter, these systems can be sold to recyclers for as much as $200. In turn, the metal recyclers extract the metal, selling it for up to thousands of dollars per ounce.

As metal prices have increased, so has catalytic converter theft. Thieves can remove a catalytic converter in as little as two minutes, and these thefts often happen in broad daylight in full parking lots. They most frequently hit vehicles that sit higher off the ground like late-model Toyotas, trucks, and SUVs.

While this quick crime may represent fast cash for criminals, it can cost car owners tremendously. Depending on the cost of parts and labor, an owner can end up having to pay $1000 or more. And because you’re legally required to have a catalytic converter in your vehicle, you won’t be able to put it off. 

You can take these steps to prevent catalytic converter theft:

●        Install an alarm system calibrated to respond to vibration.

●        Add front and rear cameras.

●        Park in well-lit areas.

●        Etch your VIN number into your catalytic converter.

Car Alarms for Minnesota Vehicles

Are you concerned about catalytic converter theft? Protect your vehicle from vandalism, theft, and hit-and-runs with a complete car alarm and security system from Mobile Installation in Brooklyn Park.

Stop by our online gallery to see why Minnesota drivers love Mobile Installation, and then call us at 612-986-3332 for installation delivery. Get your free quote today!