BANGOR, Maine (WABI) – The National Automobile Dealers Association says across the country, catalytic converter thefts rose 900% between 2019 and 2022.
Aiming to curb these numbers, the public was invited to Eastern Maine Community College (EMCC) in Bangor Tuesday to get their catalytic converter marked for free.
This is the third year EMCC has partnered with the Bureau of Motor Vehicles and the Department of the Secretary of State to offer this program.
Catalytic converters are known targets of theft due as they are easy to access and are valuable due to the small amounts of precious metals found in them.
It is reported that while thieves can get $20 to $350 for selling a stolen catalytic converter on the black market, it costs car owners more than $2,500 to replace.
To help deter thieves, marking converters with a car’s VIN number makes it identifiable if the part is turned in for scrap metal.
Organizers say not only do these events help keep drivers safe at no cost, it also provides hands-on experience to automotive students.
“Each student that is part of the automotive program here partner with law enforcement. We work together, teaching them how to utilize equipment to mark the catalytic converters,” explains Ron McGowen, Senior Detective in the Enforcement Services Division of the Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles. “Most of the students here are working at dealerships, and as part of the law change, they are required prior to sale to mark the catalytic converter. So, it gives them real hands-on experience for their job, as well as offering a service to the community.“
McGowen says they hold these free marking events twice a year at Eastern and Southern Maine Community College campuses.
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