Catalytic converter theft will be over soon, thieves now want your radar sensors – Jalopnik

As more electric vehicles hit the streets every day, the chances of encountering a catalytic converter you can steal become less likely. So what’s a thief to do? They also have bills to pay, so they turn to a new and exciting piece of technology: the simple, unsuspecting radar sensor. As someone who once had his Honda CR-V’s catalytic converter stolen, I’m especially annoyed to announce that Honda CR-Vs seem to be the main target for these radar thieves. Owners of sixth-generation CR-Vs should be especially aware of this issue, as 2023 and newer cars seem to be the most targeted.

Radar sensors are used in many modern cars for their adaptive cruise control and automated emergency braking technologies, the latter of which is a required safety system by the U.S. Department of Transportation, so millions of vehicles have them. The radar sensors are usually integrated into the emblem on the front of the vehicle, as in the case of the sixth-generation Honda CR-V, or may be located elsewhere in the front grille or bumper. What can you do to protect your car against this new theft trend? Unfortunately not much.

Radar sensors are usually easily accessible and easy to remove with basic tools. Replacing a stolen or damaged one can ultimately cost thousands of dollars to replace and properly install at a dealer. CBS News Baltimore reported on the new trend and focused entirely on CR-Vs, reporting eight radar sensors stolen from CR-Vs in the past 28 days. Baltimore police advised CBS that residents with Hondas should park in well-lit areas, in a garage or in a manner that limits frontal access, and install anti-theft bars designed to cover the sensor.

Sensor covers are available online, but these brackets are attached to the grille with screws, which would not significantly slow down would-be thieves. There are tamper-resistant screw designs, but these are often sold with a compatible removal device that is readily available, or thieves can simply cut through the grille, which would lead to even higher repair costs. For now, short of parking in a locked garage, using tamper-resistant screws to secure a protective bar is the best defense against radar sensor theft.