How to Recycle a Bad Catalytic Converter

Catalytic converters reduce your car's pollutants.

The Environmental Protection Agency requires that vehicles have catalytic converters to reduce emissions. Even if you have a "bad" catalytic converter that doesn't work anymore, you can still recycle it. Most local scrap dealers can use it to salvage valuable materials such as platinum, palladium and rhodium. As long as the inner materials are still intact, you should make a few bucks off the deal.

Instructions

1. Estimate the price you'll get for the catalytic converter. Look at the model number on your catalytic converter, then search for that same model number in the online classifieds, or use the Scrap Index to find the current prices for catalytic converter scrap (see Resources). This will give you an idea of what to expect when you go to sell yours.

2. Find a local scrap dealer. Search your Web browser under "catalytic converters" or "scrap dealers" to find the closest businesses. If you find several scrap dealers in your area that are willing to purchase your catalytic converter, they might offer competitive prices, so call around to find out what they're offering for your type of catalytic converter.

3. Take the catalytic converter to the scrap dealer you've chosen. Since catalytic converters are often stolen for their valuable metal, many scrap dealers are required to get personal information from you to complete the sale. You will typically need your driver's license or other ID.

References

• Portland Tribune: Where have all the catalytic converters gone?
• Environmental Protection Agency: Catalytic Converter

Resources

• Scrap Index: USA : Scrap Catalytic Converter Prices