Catalytic converters are often the single most valuable scrap part on any junk car. Prices vary widely, but as of August 2025, scrap converters sell for $50 to $900 depending on type, condition, and precious metal content. OEM converters from trucks and hybrids fetch the highest payouts. Theft risk and regulatory restrictions also play a role in value and resale options.
How Much Is a Scrap Catalytic Converter Worth?
The scrap value of a catalytic converter depends on the precious metals inside—platinum, palladium, and rhodium. These metals are extracted by refineries and fluctuate based on global prices.
Current Ranges (August 2025):
- Standard OEM gas vehicle converter: $75–$250
- Diesel truck converter: $200–$500
- Hybrid converters (e.g. Prius): $400–$900
- Aftermarket converters: $10–$80
OEM units are worth far more than aftermarket replacements. Many buyers will not purchase aftermarket cats at all.
Which Vehicles Have the Most Valuable Catalytic Converters?
Hybrid and diesel trucks top the list due to their larger converters and higher PGM (platinum group metal) content.
- Toyota Prius (2004–2016): $400–$900
- Ford F-Series Super Duty Diesel: $300–$500
- Honda Element/CR-V: $250–$450
- Dodge Ram 2500/3500: $300–$600
- GM Silverado/Sierra Diesel: $300–$500
Luxury imports like Mercedes, BMW, and Audi may also bring high payouts, but verification and part number tracking are critical.
What Factors Impact Converter Scrap Value?
- OEM vs. aftermarket: Aftermarket units contain little or no precious metals.
- Vehicle type: Hybrids and diesels generally yield more.
- Condition: Damage, rust, or theft cuts payout by 30–70%.
- Emission standard: California-spec converters usually contain more PGMs.
- Buyer type: Scrap yards pay less than licensed core buyers or smelters.
How to Maximize Scrap Value for Your Converter
To get the best price for your catalytic converter:
- Check for OEM markings or part numbers
- Don’t remove the converter if you’re selling a whole junk car
- Keep the unit intact and undamaged
- Sell to a licensed buyer (avoid lowball offers or illegal buyers)
- Compare 2–3 quotes before accepting
Buyers typically pay more for converters left in place on junk cars, and they handle removal themselves.
Legal Restrictions and Theft Risks
Converter theft has led to strict regulation in many states. You must verify ownership and avoid buying or selling stolen parts.
- California: Only licensed dismantlers may buy or sell catalytic converters
- New York & Texas: Require ID and traceability
- Federal law: Selling a tampered converter is illegal
Buyers on Reap My Ride have their licence checked with the issuing agency before they can make offers. Wherever you sell, always verify the buyer’s license and follow disposal guidelines.
Should You Remove the Converter or Sell the Whole Car?
Removing the catalytic converter yourself may increase total payout—but only if you know what you’re doing. Improper removal can destroy the value.
When to sell it separately:
- The rest of the car has little or no value
- You have a high-value OEM converter
- You have access to licensed buyers
When to leave it in place:
- You’re scrapping the whole car
- You want a fast and legal sale
- You’re unsure of the converter type
When the converter stays on the car, its value is built into the buyer’s offer—and the buyer handles removal and the legal requirements.
Get a Quote for Your Junk Car with Converter
On Reap My Ride, you describe your car once—including whether the converter is original and still installed—and screened, licence-checked local buyers compete with offers that account for it. No need to remove it yourself.
Compare offers and choose a buyer. That buyer schedules pickup, tows the car for free, and pays at pickup. Offers typically stay good for 5 days.