Thefts of scrap metal are on the rise.
Law enforcement in the east say thieves are targeting cars, more than ever.
The worst part, mechanics say most alarm systems will do very little to protect your car from being stripped.
But it's the value of what's under you're car that's got crooks digging for treasure.
An easily accessible device attached to the exhaust system of every car. The catalytic converter helps clean engine exhaust---now it's a quick money maker for thieves.
"You're talking five minutes or less,” said Alex Harding, a Fulcher Tire & Auto rep.
Police say vehicles parked at malls and even auto body shops are becoming targets.
They're taking catalytic converters to sell for scrap. Why? Because it also contains platinum.
“I've actually been hit the least of all the areas that have cars in their parking lots,” Harding said.
He also says exposed converters found on domestic cars are easy targets but the real money lies in the foreign imports.
A Mercedes has four converters--which can go for 400-bucks each.
When better security wasn't enough, auto lots like Teel's Enterprise are forced to work harder at making sales.
“We buy anywhere from 250 to 300 a year--that’s a lot of cars,” Harry Teel, owner of Teel Enterprise said. “Well you got to protect them. You take them off today, you try to sell them tomorrow. Because if they find them in here they'll come and get them."
But for drivers who aren't looking to get rid of their vehicles mechanics like Harding say beware, “There really isn't anything you can do to protect your vehicle…most alarm systems are only geared toward your door and ignition system."
The only deterrent mechanics recommend, is to make sure you park in a well lit area.
But stealing converters is a trend that is also hitting college campuses in the east, police tell Nine On Your Side four cars parked on campus at East Carolina University were targeted last week alone.
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