How to Recycle Catalytic Converters
Emission control devices containing precious metals like platinum, palladium, and rhodium worth $50-500+ each. These honeycomb ceramic structures reduce vehicle emissions but are frequent theft targets due to their high metal content and easy access under vehicles.
- 1Verify ownership before handling (frequent theft item)
- 2Remove carefully from exhaust system when cool
- 3Keep ceramic element intact - avoid cutting or crushing
- 4Store in secure, locked location until recycling
- 5Photograph serial numbers and keep vehicle maintenance records
- 6Transport to certified precious metals recycler
- 7Get detailed receipt showing metals recovered
- Licensed precious metals recyclers
- Certified auto dismantlers with precious metal permits
- Scrap yards with catalytic converter certification
- Automotive exhaust specialty shops
- Some metal recycling facilities (verify licensing first)
EXTREME THEFT RISK - worth hundreds of dollars and easily accessible. Never leave removed catalytic converters unattended. Only sell to licensed recyclers who verify ownership. Cutting or tampering reduces value significantly.
Contains 3-7 grams of precious metals per unit: platinum, palladium, and rhodium are among the world's rarest elements. Recycling recovers 95% of precious metals, preventing environmentally destructive mining operations and reducing CO2 emissions by 85% compared to primary metal production.
Accepted
- Passenger car catalytic converters (all types)
- Truck and SUV catalytic converters
- Motorcycle catalytic converters
- Diesel particulate filters (DPF) with precious metals
- Three-way catalytic converters
- Oxidation catalysts
Not Accepted
- Cut or damaged converters (significantly reduced value)
- Converters without proof of ownership
- Aftermarket converters with low metal content
- Converters suspected of theft (recyclers must verify ownership)
- Severely contaminated or oil-fouled units
Estimated value: $50-500+ depending on vehicle type, age, and precious metal content; luxury cars and trucks typically worth more
- Platinum (catalyst metal)
- Palladium (catalyst metal)
- Rhodium (most valuable catalyst metal)
- Ceramic substrate (alumina)
- Cerium and other rare earth elements
How do I know what my catalytic converter is worth?
Value depends on vehicle year/make/model and precious metal content. Luxury cars, trucks, and hybrids typically have higher values ($200-500+). Get quotes from multiple certified recyclers for accurate pricing.
Why are catalytic converters stolen so frequently?
High value ($50-500+ each), easy 2-minute removal with basic tools, and difficult to trace ownership. Thieves target trucks, SUVs, and hybrids which are higher and have easier access.
Can I recycle a catalytic converter without ownership proof?
Licensed recyclers are required to verify ownership through VIN matching, receipts, or business documentation. Individual sellers may need photo ID and signed statements of ownership.
What's inside a catalytic converter that makes it valuable?
Platinum, palladium, and rhodium coat a ceramic honeycomb structure. These precious metals facilitate emission reduction reactions and are more valuable per ounce than gold.
Should I remove my catalytic converter myself?
Only if you have proper tools, safety equipment, and vehicle access. Professional removal ensures safety and prevents damage that could reduce value. Never cut or damage the unit.
How can I protect my catalytic converter from theft?
Park in well-lit areas, install anti-theft devices or shields, engrave VIN numbers, or park in garages. Some insurance policies cover theft replacement.
What happens to recycled catalytic converters?
They're processed to separate precious metals from ceramic substrate. Metals are refined for new catalytic converters or other industrial uses. Ceramic can be recycled into new substrates.
Are aftermarket catalytic converters worth as much?
Usually not. Aftermarket units often have lower precious metal content to reduce cost. OEM (original equipment) converters typically have higher recycling value.