Vehicle owners in New York City are facing a growing concern as Car Part Theft surges, with recent data revealing a significant increase in incidents. Statistics from the New York City Police Department (NYPD) highlight a troubling trend: a more than 6% rise in grand larceny auto or vehicle thefts compared to last year. Alarmingly, over the past two years, this increase jumps to over 95%, signaling a serious issue for vehicle security in the city. This uptick mirrors a national trend in vehicle thefts, leaving many drivers worried about the safety of their vehicles and their components.
FILE – Tires stolen from parked car.
Experts attribute this spike in car part theft to several converging factors, primarily economic pressures. “It’s the economy. It’s inflation. Vehicles are relatively easy to steal,” explains Robert Sinclair Jr., senior manager of public affairs for AAA Northeast. The Council On Criminal Justice also reported a dramatic 59% increase in motor vehicle thefts between 2019 and 2022, reinforcing the severity of the situation.
According to the NYPD, certain vehicle models are disproportionately targeted by thieves. The top five vehicles frequently involved in these thefts include the Ford Econoline, Honda Accord, Honda CR—V, Honda Civic, and the Toyota Camry. However, thieves aren’t just after entire vehicles; car parts are also highly sought after. Catalytic converters, in particular, have become a prime target.
NYPD data reveals a staggering escalation in catalytic converter thefts. In 2022, a massive 8,591 catalytic converters were stolen in New York City, a dramatic leap from just 802 thefts in 2020. An NYPD spokesperson clarified that this surge is driven by the increased value of precious metals contained within these parts. The rising prices of these materials make catalytic converters a lucrative target for thieves.
This wave of car part theft is causing significant anxiety among New Yorkers. Maurizio Angione, a concerned New Yorker, expressed his worries: “You have to worry about where you park the car now.” His sentiment reflects the growing unease among vehicle owners who fear becoming the next victim of car part theft in the city. Drivers are urged to take extra precautions to protect their vehicles from these increasing criminal activities.
