Ever wonder what the history of catalytic converters but you are too worried about ruining it by cutting it open? Let us tell you all about them today. Catalytic converters are a standard on all cars that were made in the mid 1970’s and were made to cut down on pollution from the automobile industry. Made with precious metals like platinum and rhodium “baked” into the catalytic comb, they are a very good item to scrap.
Catalytic converters, or “cats,” are one of the highest priced item per piece in the scrap metal world and since the mid 2000’s have become one of the highest stolen items as well. Because the catalytic converters are located underneath cars and trucks, many thieves have cut or ripped them out to sell to scrap yards for a high return and some quick cash.
Cats have the precious metals baked into the comb, many times the comb is either ceramic material. It can be removed from the casing, however it will significantly reduce the price and value of the material. When scrap yards classify and price the catalytic converters they will be able to quote the price based on the year, make, and model which will reflect the amount of precious metals that can be found once it is processed.
Catalytic Converter Theft
Many states are cracking down on catalytic converter theft by not allowing scrap yards to buy catalytic converters from the public unless they come with the title to the car that the cat is being sold off of. With such a high demand for precious metals from inside of the catalytic converters it is tough to guess how the scrap laws will continue to affect the sales of cats to many scrap yards across the US. You can ask your local scrap yard if they will buy them and what the laws say.
Hope this helps give you a little better history and knowledge on cats! Scrap ya later!
-Tom
Want to know what it takes and what to look out for when looking to scrap a catalytic converter? Hear what we have to say about finding a reputable buyer:
