Top 15 cars targeted for catalytic converter theft in Minnesota
(FOX 9) - As part of a catalytic converter theft prevention program approved by the Minnesota State Legislature last year, state officials have released a list of the top 15 cars most targeted by catalytic converter thieves.
According to the state’s catalytic converter pilot webpage, these are the 15 cars most targeted by thieves who steal catalytic converters:
- Chevrolet Express
- Ford Econoline
- Ford F250
- Honda Accord
- Honda CRV
- Honda Element
- Honda Odyssey
- Hyundai Santa Fe
- Hyundai Tucson
- Kia Sportage
- Mitsubishi Eclipse
- Mitsubishi Lancer
- Mitsubishi Outlander
- Toyota Prius
- Toyota Tundra
To try and curb the increase in these kinds of thefts, the state is offering free CATGAURD labels to vehicle owners. The CATGAURD label goes on to a catalytic converter and a fluid painted over the label creates a permanent etching on the converter once the car is turned on.
Minnesota program marks catalytic converters to prevent rising thefts
As catalytic converter thefts continue at high rates, the Minnesota Department of Commerce is partnering with local police departments and auto shops -- marking catalytic converters in hopes of catching more of the thieves responsible for the crime.
The labels on the converters can be traced back to specific vehicles. The hope is that the labels will deter thefts and help law enforcement identify who’s stealing the converters.
The labels are available at more than 90 locations across the metro ranging from police stations to car repair shops. Under state law, the labels must be installed at no cost to owners, but businesses can require another service, like an oil change, before they agree to install the label.
Click here to find locations where you can get a CATGUARD label.