What cars have rhodium catalytic converters?
Rhodium is used in the catalytic converters of virtually all modern gasoline-powered cars.
Rhodium plays a key role in the NOx-reduction function of three-way catalysts, typically paired with platinum and palladium. The exact rhodium content varies by model, market, and catalyst generation, and diesel engines or some alternative-fuel systems use different formulations with little or no rhodium. There is no public, model-by-model registry listing rhodium content for vehicles.
Rhodium's role in catalytic converters
Rhodium helps enable NOx reduction within the three-way catalyst that sits in a gasoline engine’s exhaust system. While platinum and palladium handle oxidation and conversion of other pollutants, rhodium specifically targets nitrogen oxides. The metal’s share in a catalyst can fluctuate based on emissions standards (and the engine’s operating regime), driving cycles, and regional regulations. Because rhodium is scarce and expensive, manufacturers balance its use with other precious metals to meet standards while controlling cost.
Which vehicles typically include rhodium
Most gasoline-powered vehicles incorporate rhodium in their catalytic converters as part of the three-way catalyst. The exact amount and formulation are not publicly disclosed by manufacturers, and diesel or some alternative-fuel systems use different catalytic configurations with little or no reliance on rhodium.
- Gasoline-powered passenger cars and light trucks sold globally, including many hybrids with gasoline engines.
- Premium, performance, and markets with stringent NOx limits where catalysts are engineered for higher NOx control.
- Regions and models designed to meet strict emissions regulations (e.g., parts of Europe, North America, and other major markets).
- Some plug-in hybrids and mild-hybrids that retain an internal combustion engine in addition to electric propulsion.
Below are broad categories where rhodium is commonly present in the exhaust catalysts of modern vehicles. The list reflects industry practice rather than a public catalog of model contents.
In practice, rhodium content varies by model and generation, and manufacturers do not publish precise metal loadouts for each vehicle. The general takeaway is that rhodium is a standard component of most gasoline catalytic systems, but not universally constant across all engine types.
Diesel and alternative-fuel vehicles
Diesel engines typically rely more on platinum and palladium catalysts and different NOx-control technologies (such as SCR or lean NOx traps). Some alternative-fuel vehicles (natural gas, propane, etc.) may use rhodium in certain catalysts, but it is not as universal as in gasoline three-way catalysts.
Regulatory trends and market implications
Rhodium is among the most volatile precious metals, with prices influenced by supply disruptions, geopolitical factors, and demand from the automotive and jewelry sectors. The fluctuating price has prompted ongoing research into rhodium-sparing catalyst formulations and alternative NOx-control technologies. Nevertheless, rhodium remains a standard component in many gasoline catalysts as automakers work to meet evolving emissions standards.
Security, theft, and practical considerations
Rhodium-containing catalytic converters can be valuable targets for theft. Since converters are bolted underneath vehicles, theft risk can be higher in areas with rampant catalytic-converter crime. If you suspect a stolen converter or unusual exhaust sounds, consult a licensed technician promptly and consider anti-theft measures or protective shielding as advised by your dealer or mechanic.
Summary
Rhodium is a common, though not uniformly disclosed, component of catalytic converters for most modern gasoline engines, serving a critical NOx-reduction function within the three-way catalyst. Diesel and some alternative-fuel systems use different formulations with less reliance on rhodium. There is no public, model-by-model registry of rhodium content, and catalyst designs continue to evolve with emissions standards and price pressures. In short, virtually all contemporary gasoline cars have rhodium in their catalytic converters, but the exact makeup varies by vehicle and market.
