Santa Cruz Dealer Takes Stand Against Auto Thieves

A growing problem of theft from certain Toyota vehicle models has been plaguing the Santa Cruz area over the past few months. Thieves have been cutting catalytic converters from many of these vehicles and selling them to recycle dealers for cash. Recently, a local Toyota dealer has taken a stand against this problem by offering a free fix.

The models that have been targeted in particular — Toyota Tacomas, Tundras, Highlanders and Land Cruisers — sit higher off the ground and are easier for thieves to access the parts from underneath the vehicles. Thieves are particularly interested in the palladium and platinum found in the catalytic converters, which can fetch a price of $600 to $1,600 from recycle dealers.

Steve Vollers, the service manager from Toyota of Santa Cruz, says that even though a vehicle can still run without a catalytic converter, the engine will roar like a loud truck according to a news story from the Santa Cruz Sentinel. He also notes that any repairs of a catalytic converter can run from $1,000 to $2,000. The vehicle will also likely require a new muffler.

Toyota of Santa Cruz is working to combat the problem of the thefts by welding the catalytic converter on to the vehicle, making it much more difficult for thieves to swipe. Mechanics will also have the license plate number engraved on the part so that it is traceable in case it is stolen. They are doing all this for free.

A quick fix to an expensive solution to be sure. While this story has been reported on in California, it could happen in your area. Check with your local Toyota dealer to see if they can help weld your catalytic converter on. Making life harder on thieves is always a good goal to have.

Related Posts:

• News Alert: Thieves Targeting Toyota Tacoma in Southern California
• Are Truck Owners Worried About Gas Theft?
• Tundra Targeted By Catalytic Converter Thieves