Police say etching helps them track stolen catalytic converters and makes it harder for thieves to sell one.....Yes, because the chop shops and mechanics that buy these stolen catalytic converters really care about a number etched on.
In addition to the catalytic converter kit, Boulder Police also handed out steering wheel club locks to owners of cars that are at high risk for theft...Are they the same steering wheel clubs that thieves just cut the steering wheel and then remove the club? I remember watching a car thief demonstrate how long it took him to bypass one of them for a news crew. It was ridiculous.
I had the same thought. It is illegal almost everywhere to sell a used catalytic converter unless you fill out tons of paperwork.
The chop shops don’t care about that paperwork. So why should they care about a VIN etching?