ORANGE COUNTY, CALIFORNIA
Due to recent and frequent thefts of catalytic converters, Tustin Toyota, at the request of local police, has teamed together with Toyota of Glendale to promote a new operation. “CAT TAGS” is expected to launch in mid-September.
Tustin Toyota and Glendale Toyota will be providing a new service, “CAT TAGS”, free of charge, to anyone with a Toyota vehicle, regardless of whether it was purchased at either of the dealerships. The process involves technicians in the service department etching the Vehicle Identification Number onto the catalytic converter. A non-removable marking will ensure that all catalytic converters are easily identifiable and traceable while simultaneously deterring the thefts.
Catalytic converters, which are essential for controlling emissions and maintaining clean air standards, can sell for over two hundred dollars per unit on the automotive black market. Thieves have seen the vulnerability of these units, and using battery saws, can easily harvest catalytic converters from underneath vehicles. To owners, the replacement cost can be as high as two thousand dollars.
Both dealerships hope that their complimentary service will encourage vehicle owners to take preventative action while discouraging thieves and deterring future thefts of catalytic converters.
