To help fight a growing wave of catalytic converter thefts across the state — especially at car dealerships — the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles is introducing a new metal etching kit, according to state officials.

The new kit will enable dealerships to etch a traceable serial number onto the catalytic converters in their lots, which can be easily seen and traced back to the dealership from which it was stolen, officials said.

“New car dealers have been hit particularly hard by these thefts. In addition to the cost to replace the stolen parts, these thefts often result in thousands of dollars in additional damage to the vehicle, which means a dealer has to wait to sell the vehicle or a new car buyer has to wait significantly longer to receive their vehicle,” said DMV Commissioner Mark J.F. Schroeder. 

“We are happy to help get etching kits into the hands of dealers to help them fight the scourge of catalytic converter thefts.”

Attached to vehicle mufflers, a catalytic converter uses platinum, palladium, and rhodium to convert toxic engine exhaust to less harmful gasses. The value of those precious metals has skyrocketed in recent years, making catalytic converters a hot commodity, with a street value of $200 to $500.

Over the past three years, some areas of the state have seen increases up to 200% per year, officials said. One of the main targets has been new car dealerships. Criminals will enter dealer lots with hacksaws or other tools and cut the catalytic converters off vehicles.

The cost to the dealer for each catalytic converter is $2,000 to $3,000. The larger the vehicle, the more expensive the catalytic converter, and many newer vehicles have two. In addition to the loss of the catalytic converters, the thefts often result in the undercarriage of the vehicle, fuel line and electric lines being cut.

In response, the DMV is working with regional auto dealers’ associations to distribute etching kits to dealers. Dealers or consumers who have questions about the etching kits should contact their local auto dealer association, officials said.