Minnesota Laws on Reselling Catalytic Converters

In recent years and months, catalytic converter thefts have been on the rise across the country. This is especially true in Minnesota, along with California and Texas, who round out the top three states for this particular crime. Drivers now are anxious that they’ll start their car in the morning to the roar that comes with a missing catalytic converter. Luckily, the Minnesota government are working on protecting car owners from catalytic converter thieves. As always, you can also give your nearest AAMCO Minnesota location a call if you have questions about your catalytic converter or have experienced catalytic converter theft.

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What Does Your Catalytic Converter Do?

Without a catalytic converter, your car would sound much louder than normal and all of the toxic fumes from your exhaust system would be sent out into the environment. That’s because your catalytic converter helps both muffle the sound of your car running, as well as converting exhaust fumes into less-harmful gasses. Technically, your car will run without a catalytic converter, but it’s hard on your car and sends harmful emissions into the air, so it’s not advised.

Catalytic Converter Theft is On the Rise – Especially in Minnesota

Recently, especially given the economic situation from the past year, criminals have increasingly targeted catalytic converters. Most states have seen a rise in these crimes but Minnesota is has one of the highest rates of catalytic converter theft in the United States. It’s even reached a point where it’s hard for victims of catalytic converter theft to get a replacement because they’re on back order for even weeks at a time.

Why Are They Such a Target for Theft?

They’re hard to come by, so they can be sold for a decent amount of money. Some thieves see this car part as a great way to make some quick money, since catalytic converters cannot be directly traced back to a specific car. There are no serial codes or anything that distinguishes one from another, so another method of protection from this type of theft, besides tracking serial numbers or linking directly to a previous owner, is necessary.

How Can You Protect Your Car Against Catalytic Converter Theft?

The best way to keep your car safe from any sort of theft, as well as protection from the elements, is by parking in a garage. However, that’s not always an option. If you aren’t able to park in a garage regularly, parking in areas with security cameras may decrease your chances of being targeted. In any case, the best way you can be prepared is to find a trusted mechanic, like the expert mechanics at AAMCO Minnesota, who will be able to help in the event your catalytic converter does get stolen.