The catalytic converter (sometimes called “cat converter” or just CAT) is one of the most crucial and precious parts of your vehicle.
Why?
It’s Crucial — because it converts harmful emissions in your exhaust to safer elements.
Precious — as it contains valuable metals like palladium, platinum, and rhodium. Needless to say, these metals add significant scrap value to the car part.
So, how do you find the scrap value of your car’s catalytic converter?
We’ll explore how to find the catalytic converter scrap value by serial number and address other related topics, like how to safeguard your CAT from theft.
How to Find Catalytic Converter Scrap Value by Serial Number?
The catalytic converter converts your engine’s harmful emissions, such as carbon monoxide, into less toxic gases. But if you want to replace it, sell it, or salvage parts from a wrecked vehicle, it’s helpful to know the scrap value of your old catalytic converter.
Here are three steps to finding the catalytic converter scrap value by serial number:
#1. Locate the Serial Number.
Before you can find out the catalytic converter scrap value, you’ll need to locate the serial number.
The catalytic converter serial number is usually carved or stamped onto the metal on the cat converter’s body, but it depends on the car model. Alternatively, the serial number can also be found on the small plate attached to the catalytic converter or the edges of its body.
The serial number print is generally a combination of figures and letters, and can range from 3-12 digits, depending on the vehicle manufacturer.
#2. Use an Online Database.
Once you locate the catalytic converter serial number for your car brand and model, you can use various online databases and apps, such as Eco Cat, to do a catalytic converter price lookup and find the market value.
This could potentially help you find information on the highest scrap price or potential buyers.
#3. Use Pictures to Gauge Scrap Price.
If you’re having trouble locating the serial number, you can take pictures of the scrap catalytic converter to gauge its scrap price on an online database.
Now that we have a general idea of how to find the catalytic converter scrap value by serial number, let’s look at some serial number formats.
Common Catalytic Converter Serial Number Formats
You’ll find these serial numbers in different formats imprinted on the edges of your car’s catalytic converter.
| Car Brand | Serial Number Reference |
| Ford Catalytic Converter | 9–14 digits, usually split into three parts |
| Toyota Catalytic Converter | 5 characters with a combination of letters and digits. Some will have an “L” or an “R” after them |
| Dodge Catalytic Converter | Varies drastically from model to model |
| Volkswagen Catalytic Converter | 9 characters with a combination of 1-3 letters, all separated by spaces |
| General Motors Catalytic Converter | 8 digits, usually starting with “GM” |
| Nissan Catalytic Converter | Usually, 3 to 6 characters with a combination of letters and digits but may vary |
| Mazda Catalytic Converter | 4 characters with a combination of letters and digits |
| Honda Catalytic Converter | Varies drastically from model to model |
| Chevrolet Catalytic Converter | 7-10 digits |
| Aftermarket Catalytic Converter | Varies drastically from model to model |
| Medium Foreign Catalytic Converter | Varies drastically from model to model |
Scrap catalytic converter price varies often. Let’s find out why.
Location of Catalytic Converter Serial Number
The catalytic converter serial number is often stamped or engraved directly into the metal on the converter’s body, but it depends on the car model. It can also be located on a small plate that is welded onto the converter body.
Here are some ways to find the catalytic converter serial number by car model:
1. GM
General Motors labels most catalytic converters the same way across the entire lineup, whether you have a Chevy, GMC or Cadillac. In most cases, the plate will show eight numbers, which is the serial code.
However, it could also be just a few numbers, starting with “GM.” In this case, it would look something like this: GM 115.
2. Chrysler/Dodge
Chrysler and Dodge don’t follow a uniform pattern of labeling catalytic converters. However, you should be able to find it stamped by the cat’s edging.
In some cases, it is longer, such as CLLC524AEB. Other times, it might be something simple, such as 8H.
3. Subaru
Subaru usually has two units located on the downpipe. You can find the serial number listed on the cat’s body.
It will be listed in five characters. Typically, it looks something like: OFCA 2.
4. Ford
Ford typically labels the catalytic converter with a longer serial number. You should find a 10-12 digit code on the cat.
These characters can be a mix of numbers and letters separated by a hyphen. It should look something like this: 3T51-4W133-CB.
5. Hyundai
Hyundai and Kia are part of the same automaker, so you can expect that the catalytic converters are labeled the same. With both brands, there should be a serial number on the cat.
Most cat serial numbers are between three and ten characters. However, these can be a mixture of numbers and letters, such as ABC or PTEE 12.
6. Volkswagen
Volkswagen has a unique way of labeling catalytic converters. You can often find a mixture of nine numbers, along with one to three letters, all separated by spaces.
For example, the serial number could read 824 313 901 H. Otherwise, it might appear as a mixture, such as 5J1 242 908 G.
7. Aftermarket Cats
If you have a car with a modified exhaust, the catalytic converter might have been removed. While it is against the law not to have a cat, there are other options that can be used in its place.
If you install an aftermarket exhaust, it will provide more airflow and a boost to performance. The new converter should be labeled with some type of serial number, but it probably won’t follow the guidelines of most OEM cats.
What Affects Catalytic Converter Value?
The type of catalytic converter you have is going to have the biggest impact on the price. The composition of rare metals has the potential to drive the price higher. If you have a converter that is filled with pricey materials, you are going to get a higher price.
The price is changed based on the current market value of precious metals. For example, when this article was written, the following values were given to precious metals:
- Platinum: $923/ounce
- Palladium: $1911/ounce
- Rhodium: $14500/ounce
As with any commodity and rare metal, prices are sure to change frequently. That’s why it’s important to check the value before you turn in your catalytic converter. In some markets, it’s best to hold it a little longer, as a small difference in value can make a huge difference with what you will earn for salvaging the metal.
However, the condition of the catalytic converter is also important. It’s only going to get the top price if it’s still in good working condition. If it’s chipped or broken, the value will drop.
It also matters where you sell the catalytic converter. Some parts of the country pay more for the cats than others.
Highest Catalytic Converter Values
There are some vehicles that are specifically known for having higher catalytic converter values. Here are a few that bring in top dollar, on average.
- Ferrari F430: $3,500
- Lamborghini Aventador: $3,200 each (contains 2)
- RAM 2500: $3,500
- Ford F-250: $2,750
- Ford Mustang: $1,500
If you have one of these cars, your catalytic converter is at risk. It is more of a target for catalytic converter theft than others. Seeing what these catalytic converters are worth for scrap, you can only imagine what these will cost to replace.
Average Catalytic Converter Values
According to RRCats.com, here are a few of the most common average catalytic converter scrap values.
- Small GM: $89-$123
- Small Domestic: $58-$195
- Small Foreign: $87-$198
- Regular Domestic: $59-$245
- Medium Foreign: $139-$345
- Large GM: $174-$345
- Large Foreign: $208-$492
- Diesel: $18-$595
- Aftermarket: $20
- Exotic: $543-$1095
To get a more accurate quote, you will need to get information related to your specific catalytic converter. You can try multiple platforms to see if one company is willing to offer more than another.
If you don’t feel like transporting it or dealing with the hassle, you can also post it online for scrap metal and someone will surely pick it while giving you a portion of the money.
When to Get a New Catalytic Converter (and Sell Your Old One for Scrap)
Here are four signs that you need a new catalytic converter:
- Odometer reading: Have a mechanic look at your car’s catalytic converter when your odometer hits 100,000 miles, as it may probably hit the end of its lifespan soon.
- Rattling sound: A rattling sound while driving may indicate structural damage.
- Fuel inefficiency: The condition of a cat converter impacts engine performance and fuel inefficiency. A damaged converter can affect acceleration. If your car consumes more fuel than usual or becomes noticeably slower, it’s time to contact a mechanic.
- Bad odor: Be on the lookout for foul smells from your exhaust pipe. After all, the primary function of the catalytic converter is to clean up exhaust fumes such as nitrogen oxide.
Spending on expensive catalytic converters isn’t likely an option if yours is damaged. But if it’s time to finally scrap your old catalytic converter, selling it can help offset the cost of a new one.
Many people sell their old catalytic converters to scrap yards, which requires some preparation.
How to Prepare for Catalytic Converter Recycling
If you’re looking to sell your cat converter as scrap metal, here are a few steps you’ll need to take before catalytic converter recycling:
1. Cut Off Exhaust Pipes.
The catalytic converter has exhaust pipes at both ends. To prep for recycling, you’ll need to cut each thin pipe off as close to the shell as possible.
2. Keep The Honeycomb Intact.
You’ll notice a honeycomb structure (the auto catalyst carrier) as you inspect the component. The mesh-like structure filters exhaust fumes and houses all the precious metal compounds. You’ll need to keep this part in pristine condition to increase the catalytic converter price.
But what can you do about someone trying to steal your catalytic converter?
How to Prevent Catalytic Converter Theft
Catalytic converter theft happens worldwide as catalytic converter prices increase yearly.
But don’t worry.
Here are a few ways to prevent your catalytic converter from being stolen for its valuable metal:
- Install a steel shield: Catalytic converters are easy to reach. So, you’ll need a metal shield to cover the component and reduce the chances of theft.
- Mark it with your license plate number: Use fluorescent paint to mark your catalytic converter with your license plate number. This way, scrap yards are less likely to buy a stolen catalytic converter.
- Install a car alarm: Install a car alarm with motion sensors. It will alert you if anyone tries to steal any car parts.
- Install surveillance cameras: To avoid the loss of a crucial car part, consider installing a camera next to your garage.
Even with several safety measures, owning certain cars increases the likelihood of catalytic converter theft.