AMID a rise in reports of catalytic converter theft across Dorset some key advice has been issued in a bid to better deter thieves from targeting your vehicles.

A guide on things people can do to try to prevent their catalytic converters being taken has been compiled by used vehicle dealer heycar, which includes parking to prevent access underneath your motor and having a serial number installed on the part.

Advice also includes asking a garage to weld the bolts on the converter shut, parking in well-lit areas and using cat clamps, which attach to the exhaust pipe.

Dan Powell, senior editor at heycar said: “Catalytic converter theft can be quite common, especially with hybrid cars.

“This is because hybrids produce less pollution and the valuable metals in the catalytic converter is in a better condition than that of a petrol or diesel vehicle, which means it has a higher scrap value.

“However, there are a number of methods that can be used to deter criminals, from third-party devices to even how you park your car. These tips will be helpful to everyone concerned about these thefts.”

Further information on how to prevent catalytic converter theft can be found via the heycar website.