Chicago Catalytic Converters Laws: What you should know

Around Chicago, more drivers are recently starting their mornings with an unwelcome roar. That’s probably because the catalytic converters on their cars were cut off and stolen overnight, creating an exhaust system hole that is loud and costly to fix. Are there any laws in Chicago regarding catalytic converters?

Since 1975, cars in the United States have been required to install catalytic converters as an emissions control technology. But, unfortunately, it is simple to steal them. In minutes, thieves may jack up a car, slide underneath, and cut out the converter.

Scrap dealers gladly buy these stolen catalytic converters. These scrap dealers will then harvest the precious metals inside. Rhodium, one of the metals, sells for $14,000 per troy ounce.

Thieves might only get $50 for the stolen converters. However, even though comprehensive auto insurance frequently covers thefts, car owners may pay up to $2,000 to repair the component.

Chicago Catalytic Converter Laws

The past year has been challenging for Chicago’s drivers. Carjackings and the theft of catalytic converters have increased significantly. However, there may soon be assistance available to safeguard your car. Lawmakers have introduced a new law in Chicago regarding catalytic converters’ thefts.

With a proposed rule mandating anybody selling a used catalytic converter to present two forms of identification, including a driver’s license or state ID, at the moment of sale, Chicago lawmakers hope to put a stop to catalytic converter thefts. First, of course, the buyer should document the information.

Undoubtedly, the proposal is a strong beginning. The bill ought to become law as soon as possible. But during the past two years, some states have even tighter their laws against catalytic converter theft.

What does the law mean?

The goal is to eliminate the demand for stolen components. Based on recently put-out state legislation, you would need to present a driver’s license or state ID if you were selling a catalytic converter. 

Customers would also be responsible. 

The spike in the thefts of catalytic converters has left car owners exasperated. Salvage yards and dealers pay a fortune to get their hands on these stolen catalytic converters.

The new rule demands that vendors of catalytic converters show purchasers a driver’s license or state identification card. Then, buyers would need to record that personal data. Buyers of catalytic converters who fail to maintain track of the sellers risk up to $5,000 in fines.

That’s just the beginning, but car owners prefer stricter rules. Catalytic converter thefts have been particularly damaging to Chicago.

Statistics of Chicago for Catalytic Converter thefts

In the first half of 2021, car insurance companies paid approximately $30 million for catalytic converter thefts. Among the states with the highest claims, Illinois is ranked fifth. Chicago is in the first place. 

The primary motivation for the theft of catalytic converters is the high market value they provide to scrap metal merchants. Platinum, palladium, and rhodium are the main components

How to prevent Catalytic Converter thefts in Chicago

The police department in Chicago suggested one method: paint your catalytic converter. A painted catalytic converter does not easily get buyers. This would deter theft and prevent the device from being sold.

Junkyards won’t often buy a painted catalytic converter.

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