How much are Toyota catalytic converters worth scrap?
Most catalytic converters from Toyota models fetch roughly $100 to $800 per unit in the scrap market, with hybrids and certain high-content units bringing in more notes due to precious metals like palladium and rhodium. Prices shift daily as metal markets move, so exact quotes vary by recycler and region.
Understanding the value of a catalytic converter
The value of a Toyota catalytic converter comes from the precious metals embedded inside—primarily platinum, palladium and rhodium. Different Toyota models use different catalyst designs and metal loads, so a Prius’s converter can be worth more than a non-hybrid Camry’s unit. Market prices for these metals fluctuate, which means the same converter can yield a higher or lower payout from one week to the next. Recyclers also differ in how they price a converter—some pay by the gram of metal recovered, others by the converter’s overall weight or by the specific cat type.
Several factors influence the price you’ll get from a recycler. The most important factors are:
- Metal content: The amounts of platinum, palladium and rhodium inside the converter determine base value.
- Converter type: Two-way vs. three-way designs, pre-cats versus main catalysts, and hybrid-specific catalysts can carry different metal loads.
- Vehicle model and year: Hybrids like the Toyota Prius or newer high-efficiency units often contain more precious metals.
- Condition and completeness: An intact, undamaged converter is typically valued higher than a damaged or altered unit.
- Current metal prices: Daily changes in Pt, Pd, and Rh affect the final quote.
- Buyer and processing method: Different recyclers may pay different prices depending on their refining process and overhead.
In short, the scrap value hinges on metal content, converter type, and the prevailing prices for precious metals.
Typical price ranges by model and converter type
Here are rough ranges reported by recyclers and market observers. These are indicative and can vary by region, model specifics, and daily metal prices.
- Older non-hybrid Toyota converters (e.g., Camry, Corolla older generations): roughly $100–$250 per converter.
- Hybrid Toyotas (e.g., Prius, Camry Hybrid, RAV4 Hybrid): roughly $150–$600, with some high-content units testing higher depending on the model year and design.
- Dual- or multi-cat setups (two cats in one exhaust or multiple catalytic stages): roughly $350–$900.
- High-content or late-model hybrids with substantial precious-metal loading (some Prius variants, certain newer hybrids): often $400–$1,000+ per converter, depending on metal load and current prices.
Quotes vary widely by retailer and region, so owners and sellers should obtain multiple estimates and verify what is included in a quote (e.g., whether pre-cats or secondary cats are part of the assessment).
Responsible selling and legality
Buying and selling catalytic converters is regulated in many places due to theft concerns and environmental rules. If you own the vehicle or a legally purchased converter, follow these guidelines to sell safely and legally.
- Verify ownership and bring documentation showing you own the converter or vehicle.
- Choose licensed, reputable scrap yards or recyclers with verifiable business credentials.
- Get a written quote and compare offers from multiple buyers to ensure you’re getting a fair price.
- Ask for documentation of the recycling process or a Certificate of Recycling, if available.
- Be aware of local laws and regulations around catalytic converter theft, reporting requirements, and sales of salvage metal.
Handling converters through legitimate channels protects you from scams and helps ensure the metal is recycled responsibly.
Summary
Toyota catalytic converters carry value mainly from precious metals, and the scrap payout depends on the converter’s type, model, and the current market price for platinum, palladium and rhodium. Hybrids and units with higher metal loading typically fetch more. Prices vary by region and recycler, so obtain several quotes and ensure you transact with a licensed practitioner. Staying compliant with local laws and maintaining proper documentation will help ensure a smooth, legitimate sale.
