Key Takeaways
- Average catalytic converter scrap value in 2026: $50-$250 for standard cars, $300-$700 for high-value models like the Toyota Prius
- Precious metal prices (platinum, palladium, rhodium) directly determine scrap value — and they've dropped 40-65% since 2022
- Most states now require proof of ownership to sell a converter to a scrap buyer
- Used OEM replacement converters from salvage yards cost $150-$400 vs. $1,000-$3,000 new
Current Catalytic Converter Scrap Prices (2026)
Catalytic converter scrap values depend on one thing: how much platinum, palladium, and rhodium is inside. Every converter is different because manufacturers use different amounts of these metals depending on the engine size, emissions standard, and vehicle type.
Here are current scrap prices based on quotes from major recyclers as of May 2026:
| Vehicle | Converter Type | Scrap Value (2026) | Peak Value (2022) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Toyota Prius (2004-2015) | OEM, high PGM load | $300-$700 | $800-$1,500 |
| Ford F-150 (V8) | Dual converters, moderate PGM | $150-$250 each | $300-$500 each |
| Ford F-250 Diesel | Large body, high PGM | $250-$450 | $500-$900 |
| Honda Accord (4-cyl) | Small OEM converter | $75-$150 | $150-$300 |
| Chevy Silverado (V8) | Dual converters | $125-$225 each | $250-$400 each |
| Toyota Tacoma | Moderate PGM | $100-$200 | $200-$400 |
| BMW 3 Series | Premium OEM | $150-$300 | $300-$600 |
| Dodge Ram 2500 | Large body | $200-$400 | $400-$800 |
| Aftermarket (generic) | Low PGM content | $10-$30 | $20-$50 |
PGM stands for Platinum Group Metals — the precious metals inside every catalytic converter that make it valuable.
Why Catalytic Converter Scrap Prices Dropped
If you're comparing today's prices to what converters were worth in 2021-2022, they're significantly lower. Here's why:
| Metal | 2022 Peak Price (per oz) | 2026 Price (per oz) | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rhodium | $14,000 | $4,800 | -66% |
| Palladium | $2,800 | $950 | -66% |
| Platinum | $1,100 | $1,050 | -5% |
Rhodium and palladium crashed because automakers started substituting platinum (which is cheaper) into new catalytic converters. Less demand for palladium means lower prices across the board. The converters themselves haven't changed — the market for the metals inside them has.
What Makes Some Converters Worth More Than Others
Three factors determine scrap value:
- Precious metal loading — How many grams of platinum, palladium, and rhodium are inside. The Toyota Prius has one of the highest loadings of any passenger car because hybrids run their engines intermittently, requiring more catalyst surface area to meet emissions standards.
- Converter size — Bigger converters from trucks and SUVs generally contain more precious metals than small-car converters. A Ford F-250 diesel converter weighs 5-8 lbs compared to 2-3 lbs for a Honda Civic converter.
- OEM vs. aftermarket — Factory-original converters contain significantly more precious metals than aftermarket replacements. An aftermarket converter might scrap for $10-$30, while the OEM unit it replaced was worth $200+.
How to Get the Best Price for Your Converter
Don't just take the first offer. Scrap prices vary by 20-40% between buyers. Here's how to maximize your return:
- Get the serial number — The stamped number on the converter body identifies exactly which model it is. Buyers use this to look up precious metal content. No serial number means a lower quote.
- Get multiple quotes — Contact at least 3 buyers. Prices vary because buyers have different refining relationships and overhead costs.
- Sell to a specialist — General scrap yards typically pay 30-50% less than dedicated catalytic converter recyclers. Companies like PGMS, BR Metals, and Lear Metals specialize in converter recycling.
- Don't gut it yourself — Cutting open a converter to remove the honeycomb destroys the precious metals' recovery rate. Sell it whole.
State Laws for Selling Catalytic Converters
Converter theft spiked from 2020 to 2023, and states responded with new regulations. As of 2026, most states require some form of documentation:
- Proof of ownership required: California, Texas, Florida, New York, Illinois, and 30+ other states
- Photo ID required: Most states with converter sale laws
- Waiting period: Some states (like Minnesota and Washington) require a 5-day hold before payment
- Business license required to sell: A few states require sellers to hold a scrap dealer license
Check your state's specific laws before selling. Your local police department's non-emergency line can confirm current requirements.
Buying a Replacement Converter: Junkyard vs. New
If you need a replacement converter, the price difference between new and salvage is massive:
| Source | Cost | Quality | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dealership (new OEM) | $1,500-$3,000 | Factory original | Manufacturer warranty |
| Aftermarket (new) | $200-$600 | Varies wildly | 1-2 year |
| Salvage yard (used OEM) | $150-$400 | Factory original | 30-90 day from full-service |
The used OEM option is the sweet spot for most people. You get the exact factory part at a fraction of the cost. Just check mileage and inspect for physical damage, heat discoloration, or rattling (which means the honeycomb substrate is broken loose inside).
Search our inventory to find vehicles with matching catalytic converters at salvage yards near you.
For a deeper look at converter counts by vehicle, read our guide on catalytic converter values, locations, and replacement costs.