Thefts Of Catalytic Converters On Rise

The high cost of precious metals is fueling a rise in thefts of catalytic converters in the metro area.

The converters were stolen from more than a dozen vehicles parked at an auto parts warehouse on East Front Street.

Police and auto mechanics have both spotted an increase in thefts of catalytic converter, which usually contain several ounces of platinum.

"Recently, we've had a couple of other shops bring cars in where the catalytic converters were cut off," said Chuong Nguyen with RevLine Motors in Kansas City. "Catalytic converters are a very easy target for thieves."

Nguyen said it can cost between $80 to several hundred dollars to replace a catalytic converter, which sits underneath a car and is part of the exhaust system.

"Its primary function is to burn any unburned fuels to help with emissions," Nguyen told KMBC's Marcus Moore.

Nguyen said some cars have as many as four catalytic converters.

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