I’ve armored both of my IC engine vehicles due to the local theft issues which spiked after the pandemic started. Cost about $400 per vehicle (both happen to be the top targets for thieves). I’m hoping it’s saved me the annoyance of having the part stolen, but I’m rather sad to see things degenerate to this level. Glad to see the feds really go after the crooks.
For mine, I used stainless steel wire rope woven all across the underside of the vehicle in a manner that would make it impossible to remove a catalytic converter if they cut it off without also having to cut most of the wire rope. This method prevents heat buildup that could occur if you use a steel or aluminum plate to conceal it while adding enough complexity to the removal that you make it more likely that they are discovered in the process. Most of these thieves are trying to get in and out ASAP.
So far it has worked. That is either because the vehicle has not been targeted (most likely case) or because the thieves saw who may have targeted it realized that there were easier vehicles to hit parked nearby (not unlikely but certainly less likely).
