Catalytic converters, devices that are installed in the exhaust systems of vehicles and designed to reduce emissions by converting pollutants into less harmful substances, are becoming a target for thieves in Dallas and Fort Worth, Texas.

The devices contain precious metals such as platinum, palladium, and rhodium, making them a desirable target for thieves looking to make a quick profit. The problem of catalytic converter theft has been on the rise in recent years, with Texas having the second-highest amount of catalytic converter thefts in the US. To protect your vehicle from catalytic converter theft, there are several precautions you can take such as installing a catalytic converter theft deterrent device, parking your vehicle in a well-lit area or in a secure garage, and engraving your vehicle’s license plate number on the converter.

Click here to watch a short video about what WFAA had to say about the matter.