Harris, Fort Bend counties top list for most catalytic converter thefts in Texas: AAA
AAA has released its list of top counties in Texas with the highest levels of catalytic converter thefts Monday.
Here are the top counties for catalytic converter theft:
No. 1 – Harris County
No. 2 – Fort Bend
No. 3 – Dallas
No. 4 – Bexar
Joshua Zuber, public affairs for AAA Texas, explains why there is a rise in this crime and ways to prevent it from happening to you or your family.
AAA Texas offers the following tips to prevent catalytic converter theft:
When possible, park in well-lit areas and close to building entrances.
If you have a garage at your house, park your car inside and keep the garage door shut.
If you own a high clearance vehicle like a truck or SUV, store it in a secure location.
Have the catalytic converter welded to your car’s frame, which may make it harder to steal.
Look into buying a converter-protection device that has been developed for the Prius and other vehicles targeted by thieves.
Consider engraving your vehicle identification number (VIN) on the catalytic converter – this may help alert a scrap dealer that it was stolen and make it easier to find the owner.
Security devices, such as locks, are available that attach to the converter, making it harder to steal.
Calibrate your car’s alarm to go off when it detects vibration.
Carry a good insurance policy. Most insurance companies cover replacement costs if the vehicle owner has the optional comprehensive coverage, which covers damage to a vehicle not caused by a crash.