According the the Elgin Police Department, Elgin has had 94 reported catalytic converter thefts in 2022. Additionally, 25 catalytic converter thefts have occurred since June 1, 2022. This number is twice as many as the previous two months combined.
According to auto website carbrain.com, the average cost of a catalytic converter repair is between $945 and $2475 including parts and labor. The catalytic converter cost itself can be up to $2250 of that.
Residential Areas Now Being Targeted
Before this month, industrial parks, auto dealerships, apartment complexes, and hotels accounted for 82% of all catalytic converter thefts. However, June’s trend shows that residential areas are now being targeted, accounting for 52% of all catalytic converter thefts in the month of June so far.
The Mitsubishi Outlander has been Elgin’s most targeted vehicle in 2022, making up 41% of all victim vehicles. The Honda CR-V is the second most targeted vehicle, contributing to another 8% of victim vehicles.
Tips
Here are some tips to reduce the risk of your vehicle being targeted:
• If you have access to a garage, park your vehicle inside.
• Park in well-lit areas.
• Install surveillance cameras
• Install a bright exterior motion sensor light near your vehicle.
• Install a catalytic converter anti-theft device
• If you see suspicious activity, contact 911
