How much is the metal in a catalytic converter worth?
Ava Mcdaniel
Updated on February 20, 2026
Recyclers will pay between $50 and $250 for a catalytic converter, according to the NICB. The metals can be sold for even more if lifted from hybrid gas-electric cars like a Prius. "All the newer hybrid vehicles, they're going for scrap values of anywhere from $800 to $1,500," according to Mead.
How much precious metal is in a catalytic converter?
According to Waste Advantage Magazine, the average catalytic converter contains from three to seven grams of platinum, from two to seven grams of palladium, and from one to two grams of rhodium.What metals are in a catalytic converter that are worth money?
Catalytic converters contain trace amounts of precious metals, including platinum, palladium and rhodium, which in early March hit nearly $30,000 per ounce. “The problem is that they're just worth so much,” said Paul Dauenhauer, a chemical engineering and materials science professor at the University of Minnesota.What vehicles have the most valuable scrap catalytic converters?
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.How can I get the most money out of my catalytic converter?
In short, scrap yards are your best bet for selling your catalytic converter because they will focus on the value of the metals in your cat, not your cat as an auto part.How Much Is A Catalytic Converter Worth? Scrap Recycling Guide
Which catalytic converters are most likely to be stolen?
Carfax data shows that the Ford F-Series trucks that sit atop the national list for converter theft (their high ground clearance makes them especially easy to purloin in this regard) are the most targeted models in all parts of the country except western U.S. states.How much is a catalytic converter worth on the black market?
According to The Pew Charitable Trusts, a global non-profit organization with a focus in public policy, criminals typically sell stolen catalytic converters for $50-$500 to internet buyers or scrapyards.How much gold is in a catalytic converter?
Catalytic converters contain Platinum, Rhodium and Palladium. However, there is no gold in catalytic converters.Why are older catalytic converters worth more?
That is because the original equipment has a higher precious metal content compared to the aftermarket units. Automobile manufacturers are held to higher standards when it comes to parts and equipment manufacturing, which means those parts have a higher value.How much is a stolen catalytic converter worth?
Thieves can make anywhere from $25 to $300 for a standard catalytic converter, and ones from hybrid vehicles can sell for up to $1,400. These parts are also relatively easy to access from under the vehicle.Where can I sell the inside of a catalytic converter?
Responsible Catalyst Recycling.With G&D Cats, you can sell your used catalytic converters in California and get the highest scrap value. Call us at +1(503) 855 3953 or fill out our easy online form today.