How Much Is a Scrap Catalytic Converter Worth?

Most scrap catalytic converters sell for roughly $50–$300 in today’s market, with larger OEM units from trucks and SUVs commonly fetching $200–$700. Premium or specialty OEM converters (including some hybrids and certain European models) can bring $300–$1,200, while aftermarket “universal” units are usually worth just $5–$40. Actual offers vary widely by the converter’s code, condition, and current platinum-group metal prices.

What Catalytic Converter Scrap Prices Look Like Now

The value of a scrap catalytic converter is tied to the recoverable platinum, palladium, and rhodium inside. After record highs in 2021–2022, palladium and rhodium prices fell sharply through 2023–2024, pushing average buy prices down. As a result, many quotes today are lower than people remember from the theft-driven surge a few years ago. Even so, clean, original (OEM) converters with robust precious-metal loadings still command solid offers from licensed recyclers.

Typical Price Ranges by Converter Type

The figures below reflect common ballpark offers seen in North America under late-2024 market conditions. They are not guarantees; location, buyer, and day-to-day metal prices can shift payouts up or down.

• Aftermarket/universal gasoline converter: about $5–$40
• Small OEM gasoline converter (compact cars): about $50–$200
• Common OEM mid-size gasoline converter: about $150–$350
• Large OEM truck/SUV gasoline converter: about $250–$700
• Hybrid OEM converter (e.g., popular Toyota models): about $300–$900 (formerly higher during peak metal prices)
• European performance OEM converters (select BMW/Mercedes/VW/Audi): about $200–$800, depending on code
• Diesel converters:
  – Diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC): about $20–$300, depending on size and load
  – Diesel particulate filter (DPF): about $10–$150 (often lower precious-metal content)
• Industrial/off-road specialty converters: highly variable, roughly $100–$1,500+

These ranges underscore how much the unit type and original equipment status matter. Two visually similar converters can differ by hundreds of dollars based on internal composition and code.

What Drives the Value

Buyers price catalytic converters mainly by their coded identity and the embedded precious metals. Several practical factors determine what you’ll be offered.

• OEM vs. aftermarket: Factory (OEM) converters generally contain more platinum-group metals and bring far more than aftermarket units.
• Converter code and origin: The stamped or etched part/serial code helps buyers match your unit to known assay data. Popular models (by make/year/engine) have well-established values.
• Metal markets: Spot prices for rhodium, palladium, and platinum move daily. Quotes track those curves, sometimes changing within days.
• Condition: Melted, broken, or hollowed substrates can slash value. Complete, untampered units earn more.
• Buyer and region: Licensed recyclers with assay-backed price books usually pay better than general scrap yards; regional demand and compliance costs also play a role.
• Compliance and documentation: Many states require ID and proof of ownership; buyers discount or refuse suspicious units to avoid legal risk.
• Assembly completeness: Intact housings with the honeycomb substrate and attached pipes usually price better than loose material.

In short, identity plus integrity equals value: a traceable OEM code on a complete, unaltered unit commands the strongest offers, especially when precious-metal markets are favorable.

How to Get a Real Offer

To move beyond guesswork, gather details and shop your unit to reputable, licensed buyers. These steps help you secure a fair, legal price.

1. Confirm ownership and legality: Ensure the converter wasn’t removed illegally; know your local rules—many jurisdictions require ID and documentation.
2. Locate the code: Find the stamped/etched part number on the shell (clean gently; take clear photos). If missing, photos of the honeycomb and shell size/shape still help.
3. Document the item: Photograph the unit from multiple angles; note vehicle make, model, year, engine, and whether it’s OEM or aftermarket.
4. Get multiple quotes: Contact licensed catalytic converter recyclers (not just general scrap). Provide the code and photos; ask for a written quote.
5. Understand pricing: Ask whether the offer is based on a buyer code price book or assay. For single units, code-based pricing is common; higher-volume sellers may get assay-based settlement.
6. Mind condition and completeness: Do not remove the substrate; leave short lengths of pipe attached. Remove O2 sensors separately and sell those on their own if desired.
7. Insist on a proper receipt: Ensure the buyer records the transaction, your ID, and the converter code for compliance and traceability.

Following a standardized process reduces disputes and can add meaningful dollars to your final payout, especially for sought-after OEM units.

Red Flags and Legal Notes

Converters are common theft targets. Selling a stolen unit is a crime, and reputable buyers will refuse questionable items. Expect ID checks, recorded serials, and sometimes a waiting period. Be wary of cash-only deals with no paperwork, unusually high “off-book” offers, or requests to cut open the shell—these can signal noncompliant operations and put you at risk.

FAQs

These quick answers address common questions sellers ask before recycling a catalytic converter.

• Q: Can I identify value by weight alone? A: No. Metal content varies widely; the part code and known assay data matter far more than total weight.
• Q: Are Prius converters still worth a lot? A: They remain valuable OEM units, but quotes are generally lower than at the 2021–2022 peak due to weaker rhodium and palladium prices.
• Q: Do aftermarket cats have any value? A: Usually minimal ($5–$40). They contain less precious metal than OEM converters.
• Q: Should I cut the converter open? A: No. Altering the unit usually lowers offers and can make recyclers reject it.
• Q: Why do quotes differ so much between buyers? A: Some use robust price books and tighter spreads; others discount for risk or lack precise code matching. Always compare multiple licensed buyers.

If you’re unsure about a quote, pause and get a second opinion from a recognized recycler; it’s common and can significantly improve your payout.

Summary

Most scrap catalytic converters bring $50–$300, with larger OEM truck/SUV units commonly at $200–$700 and select hybrid or European OEM models reaching $300–$1,200. Exact value depends on the converter’s code, OEM status, condition, and the current prices of rhodium, palladium, and platinum. Identify the part, document it well, and solicit multiple quotes from licensed recyclers to secure a fair, legal price.

Are catalytic converters worth scrapping?

Catalytic converters have economic value as they contain precious metals. This is the main reason why they are sold as the most expensive scrap.

How much is a catalytic converter worth at scrap Yard?

Scrap catalytic converters typically range in value from $25 to over $1,000, depending on whether they’re OEM or aftermarket, the amount of precious metals inside, and current market prices.

What vehicles have the most valuable catalytic converters for scrap?

The Toyota Prius is one of the most targeted vehicles for catalytic converter theft because it contains more rhodium, palladium and platinum than any other vehicle and is worth approximately $2,000. Other vehicles that are often targeted include: Ford F250 ($3,300), Dodge Ram 2500 ($4,100) and Ford Mustang ($1,800).

How much is a catalytic converter worth scrap value?

In short, genuine scrap catalytic converter prices usually range from £10 -£400 each. And anywhere in between. A handful may exceed the £500+ value at certain times. However, those units are very rare.