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How much will Scrap Yard pay for a catalytic converter?

The amount a scrapyard will pay for a catalytic converter can vary significantly depending on several factors, including the type of vehicle, the precious metal content, and the current market prices. On average, scrapyards typically pay between $50 to $500 for a used catalytic converter.


Factors Affecting Catalytic Converter Prices


The primary factors that determine the value of a catalytic converter at a scrapyard are:



  • Vehicle Type: Catalytic converters from larger vehicles, such as trucks and SUVs, generally contain more precious metals and are worth more than those from smaller cars.

  • Precious Metal Content: Catalytic converters contain small amounts of valuable metals like platinum, palladium, and rhodium. The more of these metals a converter contains, the higher its scrap value.

  • Condition: Converters that are in good, undamaged condition will fetch higher prices than those that are heavily damaged or corroded.

  • Market Prices: The current market prices for precious metals like platinum and palladium can significantly impact the scrap value of catalytic converters. These prices can fluctuate regularly based on global supply and demand.


It's important to note that scrapyards may also factor in additional costs, such as processing and transportation, when determining the final price they are willing to pay for a catalytic converter.


Typical Catalytic Converter Scrap Prices


As a general guideline, here are some typical scrap prices for catalytic converters:



  • Small Cars: $50 to $150

  • Midsize Cars: $100 to $300

  • Trucks and SUVs: $200 to $500


It's important to note that these are just rough estimates, and the actual price a scrapyard offers may vary significantly based on the specific factors mentioned earlier. The best way to get an accurate estimate is to contact local scrapyards and provide them with details about the catalytic converter you have to sell.

How much do scrap yards pay for catalytic converters?


Metal/MaterialCurrent Price
Pre-Domestic Cat Pre-Domestic Cat. GET QUOTE VIEW METAL DETAILS$14-$86/each
Foreign Pre-Cat Smaller cat from foreign cars. GET QUOTE VIEW METAL DETAILS$16-$217/each
High Grade Domestic Cat Off domestic cars. GET QUOTE VIEW METAL DETAILS$65-$593/each



How to extract platinum from 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 a good price for a catalytic converter?


Catalytic converters have a broad range from about $900 on the low end to $3,500 or even a bit more on the high-end. The difference in price is primarily around parts, because labor is a relatively small part of the cost.



Is it worth it to scrap a catalytic converter?


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 are scrap catalytic converters 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.



Is there an app to look up the value of a catalytic converter?


The No. 1 catalytic converter pricing app. Search 233 Million cars by year/make/model or VIN. Cat DB is the largest USA cat database ever made, with 20,000+ listings including 3,000+ generics.



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.



Can I get money for my old catalytic converter?


Recycling Potential: Catalytic converters are recyclable, and scrap yards can extract these precious metals to sell them at a profit. The recycling process can recover a significant percentage of the metal content, making it financially worthwhile.



How much does a scrapyard 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 do I claim my catalytic converter?


If you have comprehensive car insurance coverage and your catalytic converter has been stolen, you can contact your insurer to file a claim.


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.