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Are Honda catalytic converters valuable?

Yes, Honda catalytic converters can be valuable, especially to thieves. Catalytic converters contain precious metals like platinum, palladium, and rhodium, which make them a target for theft. The high value of these metals has led to a rise in catalytic converter thefts, particularly targeting Honda vehicles.


Why Are Honda Catalytic Converters Targeted?


Honda vehicles are often targeted for catalytic converter theft due to a few key reasons:



  • Precious Metal Content: Honda catalytic converters tend to have a higher concentration of valuable metals like platinum, palladium, and rhodium compared to other automakers. This makes them more lucrative for thieves to steal and sell.

  • Accessibility: Honda vehicles, particularly popular models like the Accord and Civic, are relatively easy for thieves to access the catalytic converter, as it is often located in a more exposed position under the vehicle.

  • Prevalence: Honda is one of the most popular and widely-owned car brands, meaning there are more potential targets for catalytic converter theft.


The high value of the precious metals in Honda catalytic converters, combined with the relative ease of access and the sheer number of Honda vehicles on the road, make them a prime target for theft.


How Much Are Honda Catalytic Converters Worth?


The value of a Honda catalytic converter can vary depending on the specific model and year of the vehicle, as well as the current market prices for the precious metals it contains. On average, a Honda catalytic converter can be worth anywhere from $800 to $1,500 or more when sold to scrap yards or metal recyclers.


However, the actual amount a thief may receive for a stolen Honda catalytic converter is typically much lower, as they often sell them to unscrupulous buyers for a fraction of the true value.


Protecting Your Honda from Catalytic Converter Theft


To help prevent your Honda's catalytic converter from being stolen, consider the following steps:



  • Park in well-lit, secure areas: Thieves often target vehicles parked in dark, isolated areas, so try to park in well-lit, high-traffic locations whenever possible.

  • Install a catalytic converter shield or cage: These aftermarket devices make it more difficult for thieves to access and remove the catalytic converter.

  • Engrave your vehicle's VIN on the catalytic converter: This can help law enforcement identify stolen converters and deter thieves.

  • Consider installing a catalytic converter alarm: These devices can detect vibrations or movement and trigger an alarm to scare off potential thieves.


By taking these precautions, you can help protect your Honda's valuable catalytic converter and reduce the risk of becoming a victim of this increasingly common crime.

How much does junk yards pay for catalytic converters?


It's possible to get up to $1,000 for your catalytic converter. The amount you may be offered at a local scrapyard can vary tremendously since the precious metals inside the converter (namely platinum, palladium, and rhodium) will ultimately determine what the converter is worth.



How much platinum is in a Honda catalytic converter?


between three and seven grams
Have you ever wondered how much precious metal a catalytic converter uses? While the amount of platinum varies and may depend on the size of your vehicle, you can usually find between three and seven grams of platinum in your catalytic converter.



What is the most commonly stolen Honda?


Honda Accord
Honda Accord Tops the List for Most Stolen Vehicle in the U.S. | National Insurance Crime Bureau.



How to tell if a catalytic converter is worth money?


The converter should have an intact ceramic suspension, and this is where the precious metals are stored. As we noted before, almost all of the value of a converter comes from those metals, so if the ceramic suspension is shattered and the metals are gone, it may be worthless.



Why are Honda catalytic converters so valuable?


  • 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.



Does insurance cover a stolen catalytic converter?


Is a stolen catalytic converter covered by insurance? If you have comprehensive coverage on your auto insurance policy, then you're typically covered against catalytic converter theft. Comprehensive coverage will typically pay to replace the stolen catalytic converter and repair any related damage from its removal.



How much scrap is a catalytic converter worth?


Metal/MaterialCurrent Price
Small Foreign Cat Small foreign cat. GET QUOTE VIEW METAL DETAILS$15-$209/each
Medium Foreign Cat Medium cat from foreign cars. GET QUOTE VIEW METAL DETAILS$36-$410/each
Pre-Domestic Cat Pre-Domestic Cat. GET QUOTE VIEW METAL DETAILS$14-$88/each



How long do Honda catalytic converters last?


A typical catalytic converter can supposedly last for up to 10 years or more. But generally, these components are designed to last the life of the vehicle. But of course, that doesn't always happen.



Which Hondas are targeted for catalytic converter theft?


Which cars are most susceptible to catalytic converter theft? The vehicles most vulnerable to catalytic converter theft include the Ford F-series, Honda Accord, Toyota Prius, Honda CR-V, Ford Explorer, Ford Econoline/E-Series, Chevrolet Equinox, and Chevrolet Silverado.



What car has the most valuable catalytic converter?


According to data from 2020, the most expensive catalytic converter belonged to the Ferrari F430, with a mind-popping $3,770.00 price tag. Moreover, the F430 needed two of them, so a full replacement would run car owners $7,540 before labor costs.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.