Protect Your Vehicle’s Catalytic Converter

The rise in catalytic converter theft.

 

Between 2019-2020 The National Insurance Crime Bureau reported a 325 percent increase in theft of Catalytic Converters, and numbers have continued to climb.  Because of the metals it contains, this valuable part is one thieves covet, and every car and truck is a target.

If your fleet consists of big rigs, they are also vulnerable and a uniquely hot commodity in this ring of theft.

It is the size of a truck’s catalytic converter that makes it appealing to thieves. And unfortunately, because trucks are raised off the ground, they are unusually susceptible. In just a minute or two, a thief can slip under quickly and remove the bolts that hold the part in place.  The driver never realizes it happened until he hears the painful roar of the engine and is alerted by the “check engine” light.

Because a catalytic converter is valuable, easy to steal, and hard to trace, protective steps need to be taken to guard you from becoming the next victim:

  • Install an anti-theft device. Use a heavy-duty cable or weld the part to the base of your truck with durable steel. Or consider one of the many protective devices available at local auto parts stores (CatStrap and CatClamp are two with excellent reviews). These will slow down a thief tremendously, and time is something no thief can afford.
  • Set an alarm and motion-detection lights. If your vehicle is typically parked for long periods of time, consider installing a camera on your vehicle. Thieves often target parking lots where multiple trucks and/or vehicles are stored, so lighting and alarms are a MUST in these situations. The padlocked gate is simply no match for how well-organized this crime has become.
  • Engrave your VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) on your catalytic converter, just in case theft ever occurs; the part will be easier to trace and possibly recover. At the very least, authorities will perhaps get an advantage on these criminals and help save fleets substantial losses.

A small investment today may give you the critical peace of mind you need. Protect your fleet and fight the theft that is affecting the critical profits in our industry. 

 

Is Your Fleet Ready for Roadside Inspections?

Is your fleet ready for the 2021 International Roadcheck?

Be Roadcheck Ready

The next annual Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) International Roadcheck is scheduled for May 4-6, 2021. February is the perfect time to connect with us and let us help you get your fleet prepared for this upcoming inspection. Our fleet management experts will handle all the details that keep your vehicles compliant and their wheels in motion.

According to CVSA, the International Roadcheck is the largest targeted enforcement program on commercial motor vehicles in the world, with nearly 15 trucks or buses inspected, on average, every minute across North America during a 72-hour period.

Here are a few tips to help you prepare for a roadside inspection:

Understand Level-1 Inspections

This is the most thorough of all roadside inspections. Our ABS Tag & Title fleet management experts can help guide you through everything you need to know to remain complaint during this type of inspection.

Examine Your Cargo

Be sure to check out your safe load assessment, tail board, and end gate security, cargo shifting/falling safeguards, blocking and bracing for visible cargo, and tie-town anchor points.

Check Tires Closely

Tread depth and pressure will be measured. Be sure to check for any items lodged between dual tires and deep cuts or bulges in sidewalls.

Prepare Your Drivers

All drivers must be able to provide valid licenses, medical cards and current hours-of-service records upon inspection.

Inspect Your Vehicles

Check out your brakes, fuel, exhaust, coupling, frames and safety items such as windshield wipers and lights to ensure everything is in working order.

We have time to prepare for the upcoming 2021 CVSA International Roadcheck together. Save yourself the time and hassle by filling out a request today for a free quote to keep your fleet of vehicles compliant and on the road. A member of our team will be in touch with you promptly to see how we can help you get CVSA International Roadcheck ready this year!