What Determines the Price of a Catalytic Converter?

A catalytic converter has buyback value because of its core, which contains platinum, palladium and rhodium. These precious metals are recycled, so their useful life is much longer than that of a single converter. The buyback price therefore depends on how much metal a particular model contains and how much those metals are worth on the market.

Main factors

1. Model and serial number

Manufacturers use different amounts and ratios of precious metals. That is why the serial number is key — it links your part to a specific model in the catalog.

2. Original or aftermarket catalytic converter

Factory (original) catalytic converters generally contain more precious metals than universal replacement models.

3. Substrate type and weight

The core is most often a ceramic honeycomb, and on some vehicles it is metal. The weight of the core and the type of substrate affect the valuation, which is why the catalog also records weight.

4. Condition of the part

An intact core matters. If the ceramic is broken, partly fallen out or removed, this should be stated when requesting a valuation.

5. Precious metal prices

The prices of platinum, palladium and rhodium change on the global market. As a result, the same serial number can be valued differently at different times.

6. Quantity

For larger quantities we offer pickup at your address and long-term cooperation, and premium users get special prices. See bulk buyback.