WARNING: Car thieves target precious metal in hybrid vehicles in Kilkenny

Gardai have urged Kilkenny motorists, particularly owners of hybrid vehicles, to be vigilant following an upsurge in thefts of valuable car parts in recent weeks.

There has been a significant rise in the theft of catalytic converters and the precious metal palladium from cars over the past year, especially in the case of of hybrid vehicles such as the Toyota Prius.

Three hybrid vehicles in Kilkenny have been targeted in recent weeks.

Gardai have issue the following advice to owners of these vehicles:
(1) To park in a well-lit and conspicuous manner;
(2) Speak to your garage about having a theft deterrent cover fitted. But don’t attempt to do this yourself unless you’re qualified to do so;
(3) Check with your insurance company if they require any certification for modifications carried out.

A Garda spokesperson added: “The most effective way however is for us all to be vigilant of any suspicious activity around parked vehicles. In general people will only jack up a car in a car park to change a wheel, if they’re doing more it is suspicious, so please ring us immediately. Be vigilant.”