Stop it before it Starts!

Every year, over $1billion in auto parts are stolen across the U.S.!
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Parts stripping typically involves the targeted removal of high-value components from vehicles—either illegally by thieves or systematically in salvage operations. In theft scenarios, criminals often target easily accessible and high-demand parts such as catalytic converters, wheels, airbags, and infotainment systems. These components are removed quickly using portable tools, often in under a minute, and resold through underground channels or online marketplaces. The rise of organized theft rings has made this process more efficient and widespread, with some groups using lookouts, decoys, and even fake service uniforms to avoid detection. On the legitimate side, auto recyclers and dismantlers strip vehicles for resaleable parts, following VIN-based tracking and environmental protocols. However, the line between legal dismantling and illicit stripping can blur when stolen vehicles are funneled into unregulated yards.

The prevalence of parts stripping has surged in recent years, driven by rising replacement costs, supply chain disruptions, and the increasing value of rare components. Catalytic converter theft alone has grown by over 400% in some regions since 2020, prompting legislative responses and insurance policy changes. The aftermarket protection industry is responding with rapid innovation: asset-specific labeling, VIN-linked deterrents, and dealership-integrated surveillance systems are becoming standard. Meanwhile, the broader automotive stripping market—including legitimate paint and coating removal—is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.5%, reaching over $2.4 billion by 2030. Sustainability and automation are key drivers, with eco-friendly stripping agents and robotic systems gaining traction. As electric vehicles become more common, new stripping techniques are emerging to handle lightweight materials and battery components, reshaping both the threat landscape and the protective strategies dealerships must adopt.

DotGuard offers scalable, dealership-ready solutions that address these risks head-on.