Authorities Work Together To Combat Catalytic Converter Theft

Thieves have wreaked havoc across the state over a widespread target on cars for catalytic converter.

With catalytic converter thefts on the rise, authorities are taking action and trying to help protect the highly coveted precious metals inside your car.

This Sunday, in a joint effort, the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office (MCAO) and Tempe Police Department will start engraving drivers’ vehicle identification numbers and license plate numbers into the catalytic converter.


It is the hope with the identifying mark that it will start to deter thieves as well as if the car part is found, it can be traced back to the rightful owner.  If the thief tries to scratch off the identifying number, it will be a red flag that the part has been stolen and it will hopefully deter the sale of the car part.

Catalytic converter thefts have risen steeply in the last few years. In 2019, 67 catalytic converter were reported stolen. In 2021, that number has soared to 4,700.

Car owners can have their converter engraved for free this Sunday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Midas located at 7710 S. Autoplex Loop in Tempe.

Walk-ins are accepted, however your vehicle must be cooled off before the etching can be completed.