Heater Control Valve 1975-1987 Audi 4000 & Volkswagen Jetta Rabbit Scirocco on 2040-parts.com

Catalytic converter thefts double in three years

Associated Press Thefts of catalytic converters from cars have more than doubled in less than three years, according to an investigation by the BBC. Data compiled from 40 police regions across the UK reveal that in 2012 a total of 8,947 catalytic converters thefts were reported, compared to 3,957 similar cases recorded in 2010. On Bing: see pictures of catalytic convertersStreet sweepers to mine UK roads for precious metals A car’s catalytic converter reduces its harmful exhaust gas emissions by initiating a chemical process to neutralise many toxic substances emitted from the engine.

Stylish 4 Series Convertible announced by BMW

BMW revealed its new 4 Series Convertible that will cost from £36,675 when it reaches UK showrooms in March 2014. With styling closely related to the 4 Series Coupe’s, the Convertible has a folding metal roof that can be raised or lowered in 20 seconds while driving at speeds of up to 8mph. BMW has also introduced a new Air Collar to keep front seat passengers’ necks toasty by blowing warm air on to them from vents in the headrest.

Spy photog Brenda Priddy gets a turn in front of the camera lens

Why would anyone be willing to spend more than two months every summer crisscrossing the desert in the Southwest? Well, if you're spy photographer Brenda Priddy, it's because you're hunting Rabbits, and sports cars, and SUVs and occassionally minivans. Priddy, whose work appears here at autoweek.com and in AutoWeek magazine as well as in our sister publication Automotive News and other outlets, took a turn in front of the lens recently.