Scrap Catalytic Converter Prices in Canada
Vehicle catalytic converters are the main components of vehicles, and they are responsible for reducing harmful emissions. However, when catalytic converters reach the end of their useful lifespan, they become valuable for recycling because of the precious metals they contain. That’s why, if someone plans to sell catalytic converters to a scrap dealer or at a scrapyard, it is important to know their current market value.
In this free guide, we will discuss scrap catalytic converter prices in Canada, market trends, and what influences them. Before diving into the core topic, let’s explore in detail what a catalytic converter typically contains.
Inside a Catalytic Converter
Let’s uncover the materials that a catalytic converter contains that make it worth hundreds of dollars in the scrap market.
Basically, a catalytic converter is a metal-based canister that is attached to the exhaust system and is responsible for converting toxic exhaust gases into less harmful emissions. This feature of converting harmful gases into less harmful ones is not what makes catalytic converters valuable in the scrap market. Instead, the platinum group metals (PGMs) coated on the ceramic honeycomb substrate are where the value lies. Converters typically contain three PGMs such as platinum, palladium, and rhodium, which are among the rarest metals on Earth. Buyers purchase scrap catalytic converters and recycle them to recover these precious metals.
Below is the contribution breakdown of each metal in a catalytic converter.
| Metal | Current Price | Content Per Converter |
|---|---|---|
| Platinum | $1,847 USD/oz | 3–10 grams |
| Palladium | $1,338 USD/oz | 1–15 grams |
| Rhodium | $8,825 USD/oz | 0.5–2 grams |
Prices Updated on 30 August 2026
Scrap Catalytic Converter Prices
Catalytic converter values are typically categorized into two types: OEM and aftermarket. An aftermarket converter can be worth between CA$30 and CA$200, while OEM converters fetch relatively higher payouts, ranging between CA$70 and CA$1,200. However, average catalytic converter scrap prices range between CA$30 and CA$1,200 or even more. Some special or high-PGM-containing converters can be worth more, but the exact price may vary based on several factors, such as the converter’s condition, type, quantity of precious metals it contains, current precious metal prices, and other influential factors.
Scrap Catalytic Converters Price List by Vehicle Model
Below is a comprehensive list showing the current average rates for scrap catalytic converters based on vehicle make and model.
| Vehicle Model | Esti. Scrap Price (CAD) |
|---|---|
| Fiat 500 | $50–$250 |
| Dodge Ram 1500 | $100–$400 |
| Honda CR-V | $135–$550 |
| Dodge Caravan | $50–$250 |
| Dodge Dakota | $50–$250 |
| Dodge Ram 2500 | $100–$400 |
| Ford F-150 | $100–$500 |
| Honda Civic | $100–$400 |
| GMC Sierra | $100–$400 |
| Jeep Grand Cherokee | $75–$350 |
| BMW X5 | $150–$500 |
| Ford Ranger | $75–$300 |
| Honda Odyssey | $40–$200 |
| Infiniti G35 | $100–$400 |
| Toyota Corolla | $65–$600 |
| Chrysler 300 | $75–$350 |
| Mazda 3 | $75–$300 |
| Volkswagen Jetta | $50–$300 |
| Chevy Cobalt | $50–$250 |
| Chevy Silverado | $100–$400 |
| Dodge Caliber | $50–$250 |
| Ford Escape | $70–$300 |
| Honda Accord | $100–$400 |
| Hyundai Santa Fe | $75–$300 |
| Toyota Yaris | $50–$250 |
| Nissan Altima | $75–$350 |
| Ford Focus | $50–$250 |
| Dodge Journey | $50–$250 |
| Ford Fusion | $75–$300 |
| Acura MDX | $400–$1,200+ |
| Acura RSX | $75–$350 |
| Acura TL | $100–$500 |
These are general average ranges rather than guaranteed prices.
Factors Affecting the Value of Catalytic Converter Scrap
Here are the key factors that influence scrap catalytic converter prices.
1. Precious Metal Content
A scrap catalytic converter containing a higher concentration of PGMs (platinum, palladium, and rhodium) is worth more than a converter with lower concentrations. For example, catalytic converters with a higher rhodium content typically sell for higher prices due to the metal’s rarity and high demand.
2. OEM vs. Aftermarket
OEM catalytic converters are those that are originally installed (or sometimes manufactured) by the vehicle manufacturer and have a higher amount of precious metals. Due to containing more precious metals, OEM scrap catalytic converters become more valuable to recyclers and are highly sought after in the scrap market.
Aftermarket catalytic converters are replacement units made by third-party manufacturers, such as Walker or MagnaFlow, rather than the original vehicle manufacturer. They mostly contain fewer precious metals, with almost 10% to 25% of what OEM converters usually contain.
So, OEM converters are the winner here, as they generally have greater recycling value than many aftermarket replacements. By selling OEM converters, a seller can expect to get paid more than for aftermarket converters.
3. Physical Condition
A catalytic converter in relatively good condition, with a metallic substrate that contains PGMs in good shape, may get more money than a damaged one. So, a broken or damaged unit with a damaged or removed substrate can significantly reduce the recycling value and, hence, the payout.
4. Vehicle Make, Model & Engine
The type of vehicle from which the converter was removed also matters because some models have converters that contain a higher ratio of precious metals than others. The vehicle’s engine type also influences the value of scrap catalytic converters. For example, a larger engine naturally requires a bigger catalytic converter, which means it may contain more precious metals.
5. Market Demand and Metal Prices
Catalytic converters contain PGMs such as platinum, palladium, and rhodium. Hence, the current demand and prices of these metals influence the overall price of scrap catalytic converters.
6. Recycling or Processing Costs
The cost of recycling and processing the catalytic converter can also affect the final price. Some recycling centres that use advanced technology to extract precious metals may offer higher prices to sellers than those using traditional methods, as they can adjust their payouts to meet their profit goals.
How to Get the Best Payout?
By following the proven tips below, you can maximise your payout.
- Always check the current prices of the precious metals found in the catalytic converter. Knowing the current price may give you an idea of what your catalytic converter will be worth, and this knowledge will give you the confidence to bargain.
- Try to find out the serial number or identification number of the catalytic converter because it will help you get a more accurate valuation. Buyers mostly rely on the serial number to identify the exact precious metal concentration. So, just telling the buyer the vehicle model from which the converter was removed won’t work because converters from the same vehicle model can have different designs and PGM content.
- Before contacting the buyer, whether it’s an auto scrapyard or an auto recycling centre, make sure it’s a licensed and reputable facility. Due to increasing theft, responsible authorities are making laws to control such activities. So, working with unlicensed buyers can lead to legal action. The process of making money can become a headache because of just one mistake.
- Always shop around; don’t just contact one buyer and make a deal. Contact 2–3 buyers, share all the necessary details, and ask for a valuation. Later, compare the quotes you receive and choose the best offer that works for you.
- Don’t remove the internal structure holding the precious materials, as without it, the converter has almost zero value. It will become just a steel canister and will be considered bare steel, which will have only a fraction of the value.
- If you are planning to scrap your car, it is recommended that you do not remove the catalytic converter with the intention of selling it separately. Instead, try to get a whole-vehicle valuation, as you may get paid $200 to $20,000 or even more for your junk car.
Final Thoughts
Scrap catalytic converter prices in Canada can range from roughly a few dollars to several hundred dollars. You can expect to get paid as little as CA$30 for aftermarket units to several hundred dollars for OEM converters that are considered higher-value. However, the exact payout for a converter can vary depending on various influential factors.
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Comment (1)
I have 2 Cadillac converters off my 2003 BMW all original. They are boys and the number on them is 7510971. They are in excellent shape made in Germany tense month. 02, they are off my 745. IL, can you give me a price roughly?They are in beautiful shape