The NYPD released eye-opening numbers on the volume of catalytic converter thefts in the Bronx, revealing just how common the crime is.

A total of 197 catalytic converters have been stolen from vehicles in the Bronx in 2024 so far. Local mechanic Nelson Rodriguez, of Mega Mufflers, says that he’s mostly seen original catalytic converters stolen instead of replacements because originals are more valuable.

"They’re looking for the cars original catalytic converter. It's very rare that a replacement one is stolen,” said Rodriguez. “There’s some type of material in the original that they’re interested in, and the replacement doesn’t have it."

Mega Mufflers has been in operation for over 20 years and Rodriguez says he sees at least 20 people per weekend that need a new converter – a new phenomenon for the veteran mechanic. He primarily sees Hondas and Toyotas, which can cost $2,000 to replace the converter.

Rodriguez says that a car’s computer system can be destroyed if it doesn’t have the catalytic converter, and that it can cause engine malfunctions and other expensive issues. Not only that, driving without a catalytic converter is illegal.

To prevent theft, you can add a grill to your converter to protect it or find a professional mechanic to engrave your VIN number onto the converter.