Thefts from cars in West Philly have been on the rise since last spring, including theft of catalytic converters, according to reports. In a recent report, the 18th Police District alerted residents that thieves citywide are especially interested in catalytic converters from Toyota Priuses (see video below). Several thefts have been reported recently in the 18th District, according to the report. One neighbor had his converter stolen twice in the last month, according to a West Philly Local reader. 

How to recognize that your catalytic converter has been stolen? If you start your car and hear a loud rumbling sound, you probably have been a victim of catalytic converter theft. Catalytic converters are sold for precious metals and can cost up to $3,000 to replace. Catalytic converters from Priuses are particularly popular because they are made of high-quality metals.

There is a citywide trend regarding Toyota Prius catalytic converters being stolen in the city. We have had several incidents in the 18th District. @PhillyPolice @PPDMGillespie @FOX29philly @CBSPhilly @Toyota @WestPhillyLocal @PPDDerrickWood @ucdphl @6abc @NBCPhiladelphia pic.twitter.com/6QS4YCHQ7l

— PPD 18th District (@PPD18Dist) January 28, 2020