The catalytic converter on your car has a scrap value, which can be very lucrative, and this is what thieves are trying to get as many cats as possible. If you end up scrapping your own catalytic converter, or you are just curious, it pays to know your catalytic converter scrap value.
If you don’t know to find the catalytic converter scrap value by serial number, we are happy to show you how.
In this guide, we show you how to find the value of your catalytic converter. We also go over which catalytic converters have the best value. Lastly, we have an info section that shows you what impacts the value of the salvaged catalytic converter.
How to Look Up Catalytic Converter Scrap Value by Serial Number
To find the scrap value of your catalytic converters by serial number, there are a few simple options for looking it up!
We recommend using a phone app or an online web application. ConverterDatabase or Eco Cat are two of the most commonly used databases to find scrap value.
Here we outline how to look up the scrap value of a catalytic converter by serial number:
#1. Find the Serial Number.
To find the value of a catalytic converter, you must find the serial number first. However, not all converters have serial numbers. The EPA requires that newer cars have a catalytic converter, but the manufacturer does not have to put a serial number on it.
If there is a serial number it can be hard to find. We have a more thorough section below that goes into detail about where to look for a serial number. Essentially, it will be an etching and will be some sort of combination of letters and/or numbers of varying length.
#2. Use Online Platform/App.
Now that you have the serial number you can look up the information in an online database and see what its estimated value is. If you want to go the online route, you can use ConverterDatabase. This database displays the current values of rhodium, palladium and platinum.
You may also choose to use a phone app. Eco Cat is what most people use but there are many options. They provide other options like monthly subscription-type options or just one free search a day.
#3. Look Up Value with Picture.
If you are having difficulty getting the serial number or for whatever reason you do not want to deal with your catalytic converter serial number, you can also use an app to take a picture of your converter. Eco Cat has this option.
Find the app from either the Apple App Store or Google Play. Once you upload the photo you will get a quick quote back on the valuation.
Locating the Catalytic Converter Serial Number
Typically, the catalytic converter serial number is either stamped or engraved directly into the metal of its housing, but that varies by make and model of your vehicle. In some applications, it’ll be located on a small plate that is welded to the housing of the cat.
With that said, here’s a reference list of how to locate a catalytic converter serial number by make of vehicle:
1. GM.
Most GM catalytic converters are stamped and identified consistently across all platforms, regardless if the cat is on a Chevy, GMC, or Cadillac. In the majority of cases, you can find an eight-number code that is the serial stamp.
However, the code could be a few numbers that begin with “GM.” It may look something like this: GM 115.
2. Chrysler/Dodge.
The Chrysler and Dodge brands do not have a standard consistent manner in which to identify their catalytic converters. However, look along the edging of the cat, and you should see the serial number stamped.
The serial numbers are sometimes longer, such as CLLC524AEB, or they could be very short, such as 8H.
3. Subaru.
Typically, Subaru has two units on the downpipe, and you can both use the model code to find the serial number, which is applied on the cats housing.
It will always consist of five characters. Typically, it will break down like this: OFCA 2.
4. Ford.
Ford usually has longer and consistent serial numbers. Ford stamp the catalytic converter with a 10-12 character code.
The characters are a mixture of letters and numbers separated with hyphens and may look like this: 3T51-4W133-CB.
5. Hyundai.
Hyundai and Kia share the same automaker, so it is safe to estimate that their catalytic converters are identified using the same method. Both brands will have the serial number stamped on the catalytic converter.
Most cat serial numbers are between three to ten characters. However, the characters can be a combination of numbers and letters, such as ABC or PTEE 12.
6. Volkswagen.
Volkswagen has a unique method of identification for the catalytic converter. You will typically see a nine-digit serial number stamped, followed by a local letter identifier consisting of one to three letters separated by spaces.
For instance, the serial number could fall like this: 824 313 901 H. Otherwise, it could fall as a combination, such as 5J1 242 908 G.
7. Aftermarket Cats.
If your vehicle has a modified exhaust, the catalytic converter may no longer be present. Although it’s illegal to have a vehicle without a catalytic converter, there are alternatives that can be installed depending on local exhaust regulations.
If an aftermarket exhaust is installed it should increase airflow and induction. The replacement catalytic converter should have some sort of serial number, but it likely won’t conform to the standards of most OEM regulators.
Factors affecting Catalytic Converter Price
The model of the catalytic converter you have will be the main impact on the price. The rare metal composition can often jack up the price. If you have a converter loaded with expensive precious metals, you will see a higher price.
Prices fluctuate based on the current market price of precious metals. When this article was published, the following prices were attributed to precious metals:
- Platinum: $923/ounce
- Palladium: $1911/ounce
- Rhodium: $14500/ounce
Just like any other commodity and rare metal price, fluctuation is constant. Check prices before you take your catalytic converter in for scrap metal.
In certain areas, you may want to hold onto your catalytic converter a bit longer; a small, 30% – 40% difference in the price can be beneficial for what you will receive for the converter.
The condition of the converter will also affect it’s value. If it is still in working condition, that will help increase regards to high value scrap metal pricing. However, If the converter is chipped, cracked, or broken, the value will drop.
Also, where you are selling the catalytic converter matters. Some areas of the country may pay more for the metals than other areas.
Top Value Catalytic Converters
There are some vehicles that are well-known to have higher catalytic converter values. Here are a few vehicles that on average have the highest catalytic converter value.
- Ferrari F430: $3,500
- Lamborghini Aventador: $3,200 each (2 total)
- RAM 2500: $3,500
- Ford F-250: $2,750
- Ford Mustang: $1,500
If you have one of these vehicles, your catalytic converter is a potential target for catalytic converter thieves. If you saw what these catalytic converters are worth in scrap metal, you can expect to pay a pretty penny to replace it should it be stolen or otherwise damaged.
Catalytic Converter Average Values
RRCats.com published average catalytic converter scrap values for some of the most common catalytic converter categories.
- Small GM: $89.00 – $123.00
- Small Domestic: $58.00 – $195.00
- Small Foreign: $87.00 – $198.00
- Regular domestic: $59.00 – $245.00
- Medium Foreign: $139.00 – $345.00
- Large GM: $174.00 – $345.00
- Large Foreign: $208.00 – $492.00
- Diesel: $18.00 – $595.00
- Aftermarket: $20.00
- Exotic: $543.00 – $1095.00
You would have to do a little subjective research to see which company offers the best quote for your specific catalytic converter. Basically, some catalytic converters will provide more money to other companies than others.
You could also sell your catalytic converter as scrap metal online to eliminate the hassle of transporting it and trying to get a better than average quote. Someone will pick it up for you a penny on the dollar.
Getting Your Catalytic Converter Ready for Scrapping
1. Cut Off the Exhaust Pipes.
To start, you have an exhaust pipe on both ends of the catalytic converter. You want to cut these off as closely to the shell as possible.
It should be easy enough to use a Sawzall and get through. If you stay close to the shell, you shouldn’t run into the honeycomb which is a good thing. If you don’t cut them off, the yard is going to have to cut them and could charge you labor for doing it.
2. Leave the Honeycomb.
When you look inside the catalytic converter you are going to see a honeycomb structure. This mesh-like part that you see is what is filtering the exhaust fumes, and the precious metals that will create a catalytic reaction.
If you take the honeycomb out of the catalytic converter, you are taking out the precious metals that give you the bulk of the value. If you want to maximum value, you are going to want to keep this intact.
However, many first-time scrappers don’t realize this and take out this part thinking it is worthless.
FAQs.
What catalytic converters have the most scrap value?
In general, the catalytic converters with the highest scrap value have significant amounts of the precious metals palladium and rhodium. A few examples of vehicles that might have a higher scrap valuation include Ferrari F430, Dodge RAM 2500, and Ford 250.
How can I locate my catalytic converter serial number?
To find your catalytic converter’s serial number, it is recommended to look at the catalytic converter itself. Identify the proper 5 to 12-digit/character serial number.
For older catalytic converters, it may be difficult to read the number due to rust. If you cannot read your catalytic converter serial number, you could likely reach out to your authorized dealer to get this information about your vehicle.
How long is a catalytic converter serial number?
The length of the catalytic converter serial number depends on the vehicle it came from. In the majority of cases, you should find a length of 5 to 12 digits and/or characters that can be used to identify a catalytic converter.
How many serial numbers are there on a catalytic converter?
In general, a catalytic converter should possess one serial number of 5 to 12-digit/character that is used to identify it and its value. For older catalytic converters, it may be difficult to locate/read the serial number due to rust and age.