A local autobody shop is hosting a free event on Saturday, engraving catalytic converters to make them less attractive to thieves. (RCMP)

By Alex Rawnsley

unique mark

Free engraving offered to curb catalytic converter thefts in Nanaimo

Jul 12, 2024 | 2:26 PM

NANAIMO — Even with a recent downtick in reported thefts of catalytic converters, Mounties and a local auto repair shop are trying to make the valued devices a little less enticing.

A free event is scheduled for Saturday, July 13 at Auto Check Automotive, at 605 Bowen Rd., run by Central Vancouver Island Crimestoppers, Nanaimo RCMP and ICBC, where mechanics will engrave a unique identifier on a vehicle’s catalytic converter for free.

Reserve Cst. Gary O’Brien told NanaimoNewsNOW reported thefts have dropped in recent years but it’s still a sizeable issue around the province.

“We know that engraving it is a significant way of reducing theft and we’re recommending we use the last eight digits so that catalytic converter can be tracked back to the owner.”

Auto Check Automotive on Bowen Rd. will have two techs on site Saturday, July 13 engraving vehicle numbers into catalytic converters. (Auto Check Automotive)

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The engraving process takes around 20 minutes with Auto Check Automotive staffing two bays to move vehicles through during the event from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

A free barbeque put on by volunteers will keep drivers occupied while their vehicles are worked on.

O’Brien said cars parked in isolated areas are often targeted by thieves, with Duke Point and VIU noted hotspots.

Thefts typically occur late at night and happen very quickly.

“To replace a catalytic converter can range anywhere from $800 to $4,000, so it is significant. Why they’re being stolen, there’s rare minerals inside that the criminals are looking for. They’ll take a reciprocating saw, go underneath your vehicle and cut it off within two minutes.”

Removal of the converter makes the vehicle effectively unusable, generating considerable noise and pollution.

Last month, Burnaby RCMP laid charges against a man who was in possession of over 400 catalytic converters, destined for shipment to the United States.

A majority were believed to have been stolen from vehicles in the Lower Mainland.

A selection of stolen catalytic converters during a recent bust in Burnaby. Each contain precious metals and other valuable elements. (RCMP)

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