Richmond RCMP invites drivers to have their catalytic converters etched free of charge

On September 20th, 2025, Richmond RCMP and community policing volunteers will be at Canadian Tire Ironwood in Richmond inviting drivers to have their vehicle’s catalytic converter etched free of charge, as part of their ongoing Richmond-wide initiative to help deter theft as well as aid in recovery and prosecution.

Unlike typical catalytic converter etchings offered as part of a regular service appointment, this event will allow the public to attend on a first-come, first-served basis, without the need to book an appointment.

Richmond RCMP and community policing volunteers will be in attendance, promoting theft-from-auto crime reduction strategies with a Spot the Target vehicle and a raffle to win a safety kit, sponsored by ICBC. In addition, community policing volunteers will be conducting a Lock Out Auto Crime audit in the neighbouring parking lots and promoting other crime prevention programs with free stickers and Safety Bear’s Safety Wheel for children in attendance.

The “You Etch It. We Catch It.” program was launched in Richmond in March 2024 by Richmond RCMP, in partnership with the City of Richmond and ICBC. Working with participating shops and garages in the City of Richmond, the program involves etching the last eight characters of a vehicle’s VIN onto the catalytic converter. The VIN can be used by police to identify and determine if the catalytic converter has been stolen.