Catalytic Converter Cut From Car In Downers Grove

Downers Grove IL

14 September, 2021

7:07 PM

Description

DOWNERS GROVE, IL — Downers Grove police are investigating a report that a catalytic converter was cut from a Honda Accord while the car was parked outside a home. The incident took place in the 5700 block of Walnut Avenue sometime between Sept. 9 and Sept. 11, police say. The car's owner told police they parked the vehicle around 6:45 p.m. on Sept. 9. When they returned to the car around 5:30 a.m. on Sept. 11, they noticed a loud sound coming from the exhaust system and saw that the exhaust pipe had been cut. A police officer who was called to the scene noted that it confirmed the catalytic converter had been cut from the car. Thieves often steal catalytic converters —part of the car's exhaust system— because these parts typically contain platinum, rhodium, or other precious metals that can turn a profit at scrapyards. Catalytic converter thieves are known to target vehicles late at night or early in the morning under the cover of darkness. If a catalytic converter is stolen, your car will make a loud roar when it runs, and you'll notice part of your exhaust system is missing when you look under your car. To help prevent catalytic converter theft, mechanics recommend parking in a well-lit spot or in a garage or installing a security device on the catalytic converter itself. You can also etch your car's VIN into your catalytic converter to make it easier to track down at scrapyards in the event that it is stolen. Anyone with information about this incident is urged to call Downers Grove police at 630-434-5600.