Vehicle Catalytic Converter "Black Gold" Theft
Unfortunately, most cars/vehicles don't have catalytic converters. 😞
They've either been stollen (mostly) in parking spots/garages or knowingly and willingly removed (rare) to enhance performance among other reasons.
It's located along the vehicle's exhaust pipe system. You'll need to physically check if your car still has the converter.
The catalytic converter helps to reduce airborne pollutants that could harm people as well as the environment, turning 90% of harmful emissions into less harmful gasses.
A "well-maintained" catalytic converter improves the efficiency of your car, directly affecting its overall health and performance.
Functions of Catalytic Converters.
1. Reduction of nitrogen oxides into elemental nitrogen and oxygen: NOx→Nx+Ox.
2. Oxidation of carbon monoxide to carbon dioxide: CO+O2→CO2.
3. Oxidation of hydrocarbons into carbon dioxide and water: CxH4x+2xO2→xCO2+2xH2O.
You can technically drive without a catalytic converter, but doing so would be ILLEGAL.
If your converter has been stolen, you'll probably notice because your engine will be much louder while idling.
Driving without a catalytic converter WON'T COMPROMISE your SAFETY, but you will be at RISK of being FINED.
Why Remove Catalytic Converters
The catalytic converter forces the air and gases emitted by the engine to pass through tiny ducts.
By removing it, the engine breathes more and develops more power.
The sound is also enhanced and fuel consumption can be reduced by up to 10%, depending on the car model.
Catalytic Converter Theft
They are often targeted by thieves as they contain valuable metals and can be removed in less than a minute.
Catalytic converter theft most frequently occurs in car parks, but they can happen anywhere.
Precious Metal Value: - Catalytic converters contain valuable metals, including platinum, palladium, and rhodium.
The black market demand for these precious metals has surged, leading thieves to target catalytic converters as a lucrative source of quick income.
*To prevent Catalytic Converter theft;*
1. Install a shield for your vehicle
2. Always park in safe spots
Regards
Jeremiah Mauti
