What Is A Toyota Catalytic Converter Worth?

Dustin Hawley | Apr 23, 2023

Catalytic converters are integrated into the exhaust systems of cars to convert, or turn, the harmful gasses and pollutants from the engine exhaust system into a less toxic state. Catalytic converters are valuable because they are composed of precious metals that factor in when determining the price of your converter, among other things. 

What Is A Toyota Catalytic Converter Worth

The actual value you get for your Toyota catalytic converter depends on your car model and the size and weight of the catalytic converter, and the price can range from $75 to $700 when sold as scrap.

What Determines The Worth Of Your Toyota Catalytic Converter

Scrap yards and recycling companies determine the price of catalytic converters by considering the precious metals within them and other related factors.

Precious Metals Reclaimed From Catalytic Converters

Catalytic converters contain Platinum, Palladium, and Rhodium — all part of the Platinum Group of Metals (PGM). The prices of these metals at the time of selling your converter will determine the amount you get. Together, these metals eliminate nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, and other harmful emissions from the car. These metals are expensive and are reclaimed by recycling companies, so the market prices of these metals will tell what price scrap yards and recycling companies will be willing to give for your converter.

The Model Of Your Car

Toyota cars are usually fitted with a single catalytic converter, but some models have more, depending on engine size and the exhaust system setup, such as dual exhaust. Other models also tend to have higher quantities of precious metals in their scrap convertors. 

For instance, the Toyota Prius has more residual precious metals because its hybrid system makes less use of them; thus, scrap yards are willing to pay more for the catalytic converters from these cars.

Size And Weight Of The Catalytic Converter

The weight of the precious metals that can be reclaimed from your catalytic converter determines the associated amount of money you receive. Newer converters contain less weight than older ones due to their size but have higher values of precious metals as a result of more stringent environmental regulations. 

To determine weight and value, scrap yards compare the type and year of the converter by referencing the serial number, revealing the car and year it was produced.

Condition of Your Cat Converter

Old and worn-out catalytic converters don't get much value because there's a likelihood they have fewer precious metals, if any. Additionally, if the converter has any holes or perforations in the body, you won't be able to get a good price.

How To Sell Your Catalytic Converter

The easiest way to sell your catalytic converter is by going directly to a scrapyard. But you only get what they offer you, which may not be the actual value of your cat converter. Because they also sell to recycling companies who reclaim the precious metals in them.

Take advantage of online platforms to get the most value for your catalytic converter. Most recycling companies have websites or are available on other platforms where you can submit pictures of your cat converter for them to make you an offer. Here are a few steps you can follow to sell your converter.

  • Prepare it by cutting off excess pipes for easier packaging, and cleaning the area that contains the serial number.
  • Take pictures, including the serial number and the honeycomb inside the converter through the side holes.
  • Search for recycling companies online and submit your pictures for quotes.
  • Compare offers and ship the converter to your chosen company for payment.

Your Toyota Could Be A Target For Catalytic Converter Theft

Catalytic converters have been an attraction to thieves, with most Toyota cars being targeted. Reported catalytic theft increased by 325% between 2019 and 2020. Thieves are interested in them for the same reasons you might want to sell your converter. Most Toyota vehicles are targeted because they use more precious metals in their catalytic converters than other manufacturers, such as the Toyota Tundra, which has four converters and sits higher, making it easier for thieves to access. 

Here are some ways to protect your catalytic converter from being stolen: 

  • Always park in a well-lit area. 
  • Invest in a catalytic converter protection system. 
  • Park your vehicle in a locked, enclosed garage or parking space. 
  • Utilize security cameras or an alarm system on your car. 
  • Install an immobilizer to prevent the vehicle from starting. 
  • Be aware of your surroundings and report any suspicious behavior.

How Much Does It Cost To Replace Your Catalytic Converter?

The cost of replacing your converter depends on finding the converter that fits your car. Universal replacements, as the name implies, can fit most cars and are therefore less expensive, costing between $200 and $300. By contrast, direct fit converters are required by most new vehicles because their original converters are integrated into the exhaust manifold and are thus more costly, at an average of $2,500.

Summary

There are no fixed prices for Toyota catalytic converters or any other converter. Prices depend on the weight of precious metals that can be reclaimed and other factors, such as size, weight, condition, and the type of car from which it came. You can expect between $75 and $700 for your Toyota catalytic converter.

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