You walk out to your car and it's gone. Not your car itself, the navigation system or even your cell phone. The "it" is your catalytic converter. If you don't happen to notice it right away, the moment you start your car, you will. The sound has been described as "a deep loud noise," "an unmistakable roar," and even like "a Harley Davidson."
Dan McColl of Upland, California, remembers when it happened to him.
"When I got out of the gym, I started up my truck and it sounded like there was a hot rod in the parking lot," said McColl. "In fact, I didn't even think it was my truck at first. But when I cut the engine and it stopped, I knew that it was me. I was able to drive it, but it was like the gas wasn't really engaging. I drove it to the mechanic and he was able to tell me right away that the catalytic converter had been stolen."