Crime Warning: Coronado Catalytic Converter Thefts on the Rise

Catalytic converter thefts have gone up recently in Coronado, according to the Coronado Police Department. 

Six have been stolen since May, three from July 13-15, according to the most recent police blotter. Catalytic converter thefts are on the rise in other parts of San Diego and the country as well.

"Toyota trucks, specifically 1990 models, have been the focus of thefts in Coronado, likely because the height of the trucks allows thieves easy access to the undercarriage of the vehicle," the police department said in a statement Friday. 

"Thieves take the catalytic converters to recyclers and can be paid more than $100 for used catalytic converters. The precious metals inside the converters can be worth up to $500 for those who can melt the precious metals down."

In a few second thieves can unbolt a catalytic converters or use a battery powered metal saw to cut the pipe on either side of the device, the statement said. 

You will know your catalytic converter is gone if you try to turn on your car and it sounds like you don't have a muffler.

Here are a few tips to keep your car intact:

• If your catalytic converter is the bolt-attached type, any muffler shop or mechanic can weld the bolts, making the theft more difficult. 
• Some mechanics will weld a metal plate under the catalytic converter to make access to the bolts or cutting the pipes on either side more difficult.
• Park your vehicles in a secure place, if possible. 
• Park your vehicle in a well-lit area, where vehicle and pedestrian traffic are moderate to heavy. 
• When out on the street in your neighborhood, look for persons loitering around, beside or under vehicles, and report any suspicious behavior to the police.