Catalytic Converter Prices: Determine Your Converter’s Value by Code

Summary

Catalytic converters in Romania fetch thousands of euros depending on precious metal content.
Prices vary by metal concentration, model, condition, vehicle year, and emissions standard.
To check value, locate stamped converter code on housing and use Ecotrade Group price tool.
Theft risk is rising; thieves use power tools and concealment to steal converters.

The market for second-hand catalytic converters in Romania has become increasingly profitable, with prices that can reach thousands of euros for certain models. This high value has turned catalytic converters into attractive targets for thieves, a phenomenon spreading rapidly across the country and beyond.

What precious metals does a catalytic converter contain?

The high value of catalytic converters comes from their precious metal content. Depending on the code and the vehicle model, a Catalytic Converter contains variable amounts of platinum, palladium, and rhodium – essential metals for the catalytic conversion of exhaust gases.

With one gram of gold at nearly 200 RON and one gram of palladium at 320 RON, the math becomes simple: a converter containing 15-20 grams of precious metals can be worth over 500 EUR. Some premium models, equipped with higher-performance catalysts and a higher precious metal content, can exceed 1,000–2,000 EUR.

Factors influencing price

The price of a catalytic converter depends on several factors:

Concentration of precious metals – varies significantly between manufacturers and models
Physical condition – a damaged or corroded converter is worth less
Model and year of the vehicle – premium cars usually have more valuable converters
Emissions standards – converters for stricter standards (Euro 5, Euro 6) contain more precious metals

How to identify the catalyst code

The catalytic converter code is stamped directly on the metal housing. To locate it, you’ll need access to the vehicle’s exhaust system – the converter is usually positioned between the exhaust manifold and the exhaust pipe.

Steps to check the price

Lift the vehicle on a hoist or use an access ramp
Locate the catalytic converter in the exhaust system
Identify the stamped code on the housing
Visit Ecotrade Group and enter the code
Check the buyback price offered by recyclers

Examples of prices for catalytic converters

Prices vary dramatically depending on the model. Here are a few market examples:

In addition to the mentioned site, there are other resources such as servicetutorials.com, but the safest method remains checking directly using your converter’s specific code. This information is not only useful for a potential sale, but also to assess theft risk.

The catalytic converter theft phenomenon

Methods used by thieves

In 2021, authorities recorded a concerning rise in catalytic converter thefts from parking lots. Thieves have developed increasingly sophisticated techniques, taking advantage of how quickly these components can be removed.

Catalytic Converter Cleaning vs Replacement for Failed ITP Emissions

Failure at the ITP emissions test is one of the most common issues drivers face, and in most cases the culprit is a clog...

Most commonly, criminals use:

Portable power tools – angle grinders and cordless saws
Ingenious camouflage – reinforced delivery backpacks (Bolt, Uber Eats) to hide tools
Time-of-day actions – often operate in busy periods, taking advantage of ambient noise

How to protect your catalytic converter

If, after checking, you find that your vehicle has a valuable converter (over 500–1,000 EUR), consider the following protection measures:

Physical solutions:

Install a catalytic converter anti-theft system – there are devices that make cutting extremely difficult
Engrave an identifying number on the converter
Use special marker paint to facilitate identification

Preventive measures:

Catalytic converter: how it works, common problems, and home repair methods

The catalytic converter is one of the essential components of the modern exhaust system, playing a key role in dramatica...

Park in areas under video surveillance
Choose well-lit parking spaces
If you park at home, use a closed garage
Install alarm systems that detect the vehicle being lifted

Signs that your catalytic converter has been stolen

If you have suspicions, check for these indicators:

Loud noise when starting the engine – similar to a tractor
Unusual vibrations in the exhaust system
Strong gas smell – the system no longer filters effectively
Visual check – obvious absence of the component from the exhaust system

Legal resale of catalytic converters

If you own used catalytic converters from decommissioned or legally replaced vehicles, there are several resale options:

Specialized recycling companies – offer the best price based on metal content analysis
Authorized dismantlers – buy functional converters for resale
Online platforms – marketplaces specialized for auto parts

Attention: selling stolen catalytic converters is a crime and can lead to serious legal consequences. Ensure you have all necessary documentation proving legal provenance.

sursa foto: ecotradegroup.com