Cases of stolen catalytic converters peaked at 3,245 in March but fell to 1,378 reported instances in July. Stings on gangs behind the thefts and tracking of parts by police had seen cases drop.
As thefts of a costly car part double in just twelve months, our reporter Toby Walne stole a catalytic converter in 56 seconds - but you can keep yours safe
The catalytic converters are part of a vehicle s exhaust and are designed to filter out harmful emissions
Thieves target them because they contain precious metals
Thefts are running at more than 10,000 a year nationwide - with, on average, 30 converters hacked off exhaust systems every day
Our reporter Toby Walne stole a catalytic converter in 56 seconds thisismoney.co.uk - get the latest breaking news, showbiz & celebrity photos, sport news & rumours, viral videos and top stories from thisismoney.co.uk Daily Mail and Mail on Sunday newspapers.
Catalytic converter thefts are at an all-time high, according to insurers
Gangs hack them from the underside of cars to get their hands on precious metals inside the devices
Toyota s older hybrid cars are often targeted for their higher concentration of valuable materials that and are generally less corroded
Toyota GB will fit 100,000 invisible watermarks to owners older models
Marking will not cost drivers a penny and be used to help police make arrests