Scrap Value

How Much is Catalytic Converters Worth?

Catalytic converters contain platinum-group metals (PGM) — platinum, palladium, and rhodium — and can be among the most valuable car parts to scrap.

Estimated Payout

£20–£500

per item (guide only)

Primary Metal

steel

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What to Expect

Common catalytic converters fetch anywhere from £30 to £500+. Diesel particulate filters (DPFs) and rare catalysts from prestige vehicles pay much more. Most specialist buyers will quote based on the vehicle registration or part number.

Preparation Tips

Sell to a specialist precious metal buyer or a yard with a cat assay service. Always carry proof of vehicle ownership.

Catalytic converters contain platinum group metals (PGMs) — platinum, palladium, and rhodium — which make them among the most valuable items per kilogram that can be scrapped from a vehicle. However, stricter legal controls apply due to the high rate of theft.

What They Are Worth

Prices vary significantly by make, model, and the PGM content inside. As a rough guide:

Vehicle TypeTypical Range
Small petrol car (e.g. Ford Fiesta)£50–£120
Standard petrol car£80–£200
SUV/4x4£150–£400
Hybrid vehicle£200–£600+
Diesel car£20–£80

Values fluctuate with PGM commodity prices, which can be highly volatile.

Legal Requirements — Important

Since January 2023, stricter rules apply to catalytic converter sales in England and Wales:

1. You must be the registered keeper of the vehicle or have written authorisation from the keeper

2. You must provide the vehicle's V5C logbook (or a letter from the garage if it was removed during servicing)

3. Photo ID is required at all registered scrap dealers

4. Payment is by bank transfer only — cash payments are illegal

Attempting to sell a stolen catalytic converter is a criminal offence. Registered scrap yards are required to record full details of every purchase.

How to Sell

Contact specialist catalytic converter buyers directly for the best price — many offer postal or courier collection. General scrap yards accept them but may not offer the best rate.

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