This free Bangor event can help you protect your catalytic converter from thieves

You can reduce the risk of losing your car’s catalytic converter to theft for free next week.

Catalytic converters contain valuable precious metals and are fairly simple to remove from cars, making them a popular target for thieves in recent years.

Engraving the converter with identifying vehicle information, however, could deter thieves and help you recover the converter if it is stolen.

A 2022 state law designed to reduce catalytic converter theft requires car dealers to engrave vehicle identification numbers on vehicles and requires recyclers to add the identification number or a license and stock number to converters.

Converter etching will be available for free at Eastern Maine Community College in Bangor from 8 a.m. to noon next Tuesday, with help from students in the college’s criminal justice and automotive technology programs. Registration is required by emailing investigations.bmv@maine.gov.