Why Honda Accord Catalytic Converters Are So Expensive

They cost a lot because they use volatile, high-priced precious metals, must meet strict emissions standards (including CARB rules in several states), are engineered as model-specific assemblies—often integrated into the exhaust manifold or turbo downpipe—and face elevated demand from theft-driven replacements and supply constraints. Depending on model, state, and whether you choose OEM or compliant aftermarket parts, an Accord catalytic converter job can range from roughly $1,000 to well over $4,000.

What’s behind the high price in 2025

Catalytic converters turn harmful exhaust gases into less toxic emissions using precious metals such as platinum, palladium, and rhodium. Those metals remain costly and volatile: prices have retreated from pandemic-era peaks but are still high by historical standards, with rhodium in the low-thousands per ounce after hitting record highs in 2021, and platinum and palladium hovering around the mid-to-high hundreds to low-thousands. The converter’s design, emissions certification, and supply-demand imbalance all feed into the final price.

The following points break down the primary forces that make Accord catalytic converters particularly expensive.

• Precious metals content: Honda’s ULEV/SULEV/PZEV-certified converters use significant loads of platinum-group metals. While rhodium and palladium prices have fallen from 2021–2022 extremes, they remain volatile and materially affect the bill of materials.
• Regulatory compliance: Converters must meet federal EPA rules, and in states like California, New York, Maine, and Colorado, replacements generally must carry a CARB Executive Order number. CARB-compliant parts require extra testing and certification, adding cost and limiting supplier choice.
• Accord-specific engineering: Many Accord generations use close-coupled “manifold cats” or, on turbo models, a cat integrated into the turbo downpipe. These are complex, model-specific welded assemblies—not generic universal parts—so they’re pricier.
• Multiple converters per car: Depending on engine and emissions package, an Accord may have a primary close-coupled converter and a secondary underfloor unit; V6 models commonly have three total (two at the manifolds, one downstream). More units mean higher parts and sensor costs.
• Theft-driven demand: Ongoing converter theft keeps replacement demand elevated. Insurers and shops report sustained volumes for Accords, pushing prices higher and constraining inventory.
• Supply chain and recycling: EPA and state laws generally prohibit installing used converters, so shops must source new, approved units. Precious-metal recycling helps, but core-return bottlenecks and certification limits can keep prices up.
• Labor and ancillaries: Seized hardware, rust, and tight packaging around manifold or turbo assemblies add labor. New gaskets, clamps, and sometimes oxygen sensors add to the total.
• OEM vs. aftermarket spread: Genuine Honda parts carry manufacturer testing and warranty overhead. CARB-compliant aftermarket options can be more affordable but still cost significantly more than non-CARB “federal” aftermarket units.

Taken together, materials, regulation, engineering complexity, and market forces converge to keep Accord catalytic converter prices elevated—even as metal prices fluctuate.

How many converters an Accord has—and why that matters

The number and placement of converters vary by generation, engine, and emissions certification. More units, and more complex packaging near the engine or turbo, increase both parts and labor costs. Placement also dictates whether the converter is a simple underfloor section or an integrated manifold/downpipe assembly.

Here’s how typical configurations have looked across recent Accord eras.

• 2003–2012 inline-four: Usually a close-coupled converter near the engine; SULEV/PZEV trims often add an underfloor secondary converter.
• 2003–2012 V6: Commonly two manifold (bank) converters plus a main underfloor converter, for a total of three.
• 2013–2017 inline-four (Earth Dreams): Manifold integrated into the cylinder head with a close-coupled converter; many trims also include a secondary underfloor converter.
• 2018–present 1.5T: A primary cat integrated into the turbo downpipe and, on many trims, a secondary underfloor unit—driving up the cost of the front assembly.
• Hybrid models: A dedicated emissions layout; limited aftermarket availability often makes OEM the practical choice.

The practical impact is straightforward: the more converters and the closer they sit to the engine (or turbo), the higher the replacement cost due to both parts complexity and labor.

What you’re likely to pay

Prices vary with model year, engine, emissions package, and state rules. CARB states and turbo/downpipe-integrated designs trend more expensive. The following ranges reflect typical U.S. market pricing in 2024–2025.

• OEM Honda converter assemblies: About $1,200–$2,800 each; V6 systems with multiple units can push parts totals above $3,500.
• Aftermarket EPA-only converters: Roughly $250–$900 per unit (not legal in CARB-restricted states when a CARB-approved replacement is required).
• Aftermarket CARB-compliant converters: Approximately $700–$1,600 per unit due to certification costs and limited supply.
• Labor: About 1.0–4.0 hours depending on rust, access, and whether the unit is manifold- or turbo-integrated, translating to roughly $150–$600 at typical shop rates.
• Ancillary items: Gaskets, hardware, and potential oxygen sensors often add $50–$400; some suppliers apply a refundable core charge ($100–$400) when the old unit is returned.

In total, many owners see invoices from around $1,000 on the low end (single EPA aftermarket unit, non-CARB state) to $4,000+ for multi-converter, CARB-compliant, OEM-heavy repairs—especially on V6s or newer turbo models.

Why CARB rules can double the price

California and several other states require CARB-approved replacement converters with an Executive Order (EO) number matching the vehicle application. Retailers and shops in those states typically cannot install non-CARB units even if they fit physically, and smog inspections can fail a car without the correct EO-marked part. That narrows choices to certified units—often pricier due to testing and smaller production runs—raising costs for many Accord owners in those markets.

The theft effect

Converter theft remains a national problem, and Accords are among frequently targeted models. Stolen units feed scrap markets hungry for platinum-group metals, even at today’s moderated prices. The result is elevated replacement demand, higher insurance payouts, and periodic shortages of specific Accord applications, all of which keep prices buoyant. Many owners now install shields or plates to deter theft, particularly in urban areas.

What owners can do to lower costs or risk

While you can’t change commodity prices or regulations, you can take practical steps to reduce out-of-pocket cost and the chance of repeat theft.

1. Check warranty coverage: Federal law covers major emissions components—including the catalytic converter and engine computer—for 8 years/80,000 miles. Some PZEV-certified Accords in CARB states may have extended emissions coverage up to 15 years/150,000 miles; confirm by VIN with a dealer.
2. Confirm the exact part you need: Identify whether your state requires a CARB EO-numbered converter and which specific EO applies to your engine and trim.
3. Compare OEM vs. compliant aftermarket: In CARB states, look for reputable brands with the correct EO; in non-CARB states, an EPA-compliant aftermarket unit may be sufficient and less expensive.
4. Budget for hardware and sensors: Replacing gaskets, studs, and any tired oxygen sensors during the job can prevent comebacks and additional labor later.
5. Add theft deterrents: Install a catalytic-converter shield, etch the VIN, and park in well-lit or secured areas to reduce theft risk.
6. Use insurance wisely: Converter theft is typically covered under comprehensive; weigh your deductible against total cost and ask about shield discounts.
7. Avoid used or noncompliant parts: They’re often illegal to install, can trigger check-engine lights, and may fail emissions testing.

Following these steps won’t eliminate the inherent cost of a converter, but they can help ensure you buy the right part once, stay compliant, and minimize future risk.

Model-specific notes for Accord owners

Some Accord trims and years have quirks that influence availability and price. Keep these points in mind when sourcing parts or quotes.

• 2004–2007 SULEV/PZEV I4: These variants can carry pricier, unique emissions hardware; in CARB states, some components may have extended warranty coverage—verify by VIN.
• 2013–2017 I4 (Earth Dreams): The exhaust manifold is integrated; the primary converter is close-coupled and may come as part of a larger assembly.
• 2018–present 1.5T: The main converter is part of the turbo downpipe; OEM downpipes are costly and CARB-compliant aftermarket options are more limited than for older models.
• 2008–2012 and 2013–2017 V6: Three-converter layouts raise both parts and labor totals, and additional oxygen sensors can add cost.
• Hybrid models (2014+): Aftermarket choices are relatively scarce; many repairs use OEM parts for fit, function, and warranty reasons.

Knowing your exact engine, emissions certification, and model year helps you avoid surprises and order the correct, legal components the first time.

Summary

Honda Accord catalytic converters are expensive because they use costly precious metals, must meet stringent emissions rules (including CARB requirements in several states), and are often engineered as complex, model-specific assemblies—sometimes in multiples per vehicle. Theft-driven demand and supply constraints add further pressure. Expect a wide cost range depending on engine, model year, location, and whether you choose OEM or compliant aftermarket parts, and use warranty checks, proper part verification, and theft deterrents to keep costs in check.

Why is the Honda Accord so expensive to insure?

Many Accord drivers opt for modifications—custom wheels, suspension upgrades, or engine tweaks—that can increase the vehicle’s replacement cost or risk profile. Even without modding, certain Accord trims (like the 2.0T Sport) offer higher performance, which can signal greater risk to insurers.

What car brand has the most expensive catalytic converter?

Below are some vehicles with the most expensive catalytic converters, from luxury sports cars to massive trucks.

1. Ferrari F430 ($3,770)
2. Lamborghini Aventador ($3,120)
3. Ram 2500 ($3,460)
4. Ford F-250 ($2,800)
5. Ford Mustang ($1,500)

How long does a catalytic converter last in a Honda Accord?

10 years
For The Car Owner
A typical catalytic converter can supposedly last for up to 10 years or more.

Why are Honda catalytic converters so expensive?

• Valuable Metals: Catalytic converters contain precious metals like platinum, palladium, and rhodium.
• High Demand: Older vehicles, including models like the Honda Accord, often have catalytic converters that are easier to remove and contain higher amounts of these precious metals compared to newer vehicles.