Loading

How much is the platinum in a catalytic converter worth?

Catalytic converters, essential components in modern vehicles, contain small amounts of precious metals like platinum that can be worth a significant amount. The exact value of the platinum in a catalytic converter can vary depending on factors such as the size of the converter and the current market price of platinum.


What is a Catalytic Converter?


A catalytic converter is a device installed in the exhaust system of a vehicle to reduce the emissions of harmful pollutants. It uses a catalyst, typically made of precious metals like platinum, palladium, and rhodium, to convert toxic gases like carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, and nitrogen oxides into less harmful substances.


How Much Platinum is in a Catalytic Converter?


The amount of platinum in a catalytic converter can vary, but it is typically a small amount, usually between 3 and 7 grams. The exact quantity depends on the size and type of the converter, as well as the vehicle it is installed in.


What is the Value of the Platinum?


The value of the platinum in a catalytic converter can be significant, as platinum is a precious metal with a high market price. As of February 2025, the spot price of platinum is around $1,200 per ounce. Assuming a catalytic converter contains 5 grams of platinum, the value of the platinum would be approximately $200.


Factors Affecting the Value


The value of the platinum in a catalytic converter can be influenced by several factors:



  • Platinum Price: The current market price of platinum, which fluctuates based on supply and demand, will directly impact the value of the platinum in the converter.

  • Converter Size: Larger catalytic converters typically contain more platinum, resulting in a higher overall value.

  • Vehicle Type: Catalytic converters in larger vehicles, such as trucks and SUVs, tend to contain more platinum than those in smaller vehicles.

  • Condition: The condition of the catalytic converter, whether it is new or used, can also affect its value.


It's important to note that the value of the platinum in a catalytic converter is just one factor in the overall value of the converter. The converter itself may have additional value due to the other precious metals it contains, as well as the cost of the converter itself.

How much is a scrap catalytic converter worth?


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 is 1 g of platinum worth?


$31.75
Today's Live Platinum Bar Spot Price

Today's Live Platinum Bar Spot PricePlatinum Spot Price Today
Platinum Price per Gram$31.75€30.65
Platinum Price per Kilo$31,746€30,650
Platinum Price per Ounce$987.41€953.32
11 February 2025, 16:45:25 (GMT-08:00)



What is the price of 1 oz of platinum?


$999.16
Currently, the platinum spot price for 1 ounce of platinum in U.S. dollars (USD) is $999.16.



How do you get platinum out of a catalytic converter?


The pyrometallurgical process for the recovery of platinum from the spent catalyst involves three methods: smelting, vaporization, and sintering (Peng et al., 2017). Crushed spent catalysts are mixed with various collectors such as lead, copper, iron, matte, or PCB (printed circuit board) for helping platinum recovery.



What is the price of 1 gram of platinum?


Today Platininum Price per gram in India (INR)

GramPlatinum Rate Today (₹)Platinum Rate Yesterday (₹)
1 gram2,7572,777
8 gram22,05622,216
10 gram27,57027,770
100 gram275,700277,700



How much does 1 gram of rhodium cost?


The current price of Rhodium is $165.76 per gram.
Please note that the price provided above is the retail price for private investors and is aligned with industry retail pricing. For bulk rhodium purchases, whether industry or investment, please contact us directly for a quotation.



What is the scrap price for platinum?


Scrap Platinum

PurityPrice Per GramPrice Per Penny Weight
90% Platinum$25.63$39.86
Pure Platinum$28.48$44.27



Why can't junkyards sell catalytic converters?


The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) considers it a violation of its policies for consumers to install a used converter from a salvage yard or sell it for reuse unless it has been properly tested and labeled.



How much platinum is in 1 catalytic converter?


about 3-7 grams
Although the quantities vary by model, on average, only one standard catalytic converter contains about 3-7 grams of platinum, 2-7 grams of palladium, 1-2 grams rhodium.



What is the highest paying catalytic converter right now?


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)


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.