Selling junk cars is typically initiated by a phone call or an online inquiry. After determining that the vehicle is junk and not simply in need of a few repairs, the next question is always, "How much will you pay me for it?"
The presence (or absence) of a catalytic converter is one of the most important factors in answering that question.
What is the significance of catalytic converters? And, perhaps more importantly, about presence (or lack thereof) of catalytic converters what impact do they have on the price you're offered for your junk car? We'll answer those questions and more in this article.
What Is a Catalytic Converter?
A catalytic converter is a device that’s fitted to the exhaust system of most modern vehicles. Its goal is to convert harmful pollutants in engine exhaust gas into less harmful substances before they are released into the environment.
Catalytic converters, in other words, help to keep the air we breathe clean. As a result, they are required by law in the majority of countries around the world, including the United States.
How Do Catalytic Converters Work?
Catalytic converters work by converting three harmful pollutants in engine exhaust gas into less harmful substances via a chemical reaction. These pollutants are as follows:
- Carbon monoxide (CO)
- Hydrocarbons (HC)
- Nitrogen oxides (NOx)
A honeycombed ceramic structure is coated with a metal catalyst, usually platinum or palladium, in the catalytic converter. When exhaust gas passes through the converter, the catalyst initiates a chemical reaction that converts pollutants into less dangerous substances.
- Carbon monoxide is converted into carbon dioxide (CO2)
- Hydrocarbons are converted into water vapor and carbon dioxide (CO2)
- Nitrogen oxides are converted into nitrogen and oxygen (N2 and O2)
Because precious metals like platinum and palladium have a high affinity for catalyzing these reactions, they are used. They're also extremely tough, which means they can withstand the high temperatures found in engine exhaust gas.
Catalytic converters are now installed after the engine and before the muffler in modern vehicles. They can be installed on the exhaust manifold (the pipe that connects the cylinder head to the rest of the exhaust system) or downstream from it in a "close-coupled" configuration.
Types of Catalytic Converters
Catalytic converters are classified into three types:
- Two-way catalytic converters
- Three-way catalytic converters
- Diesel oxidation catalysts
The most common type of converter is a two-way catalytic converter. They are installed in gasoline-powered vehicles' exhaust systems and are designed to convert carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons into carbon dioxide and water vapor.
Three-way catalytic converters are installed in gasoline-powered vehicles' exhaust systems and are designed to convert carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, and nitrogen oxides into carbon dioxide, nitrogen, and water vapor.
Diesel oxidation catalysts are installed in diesel exhaust systems and are designed to convert carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons into carbon dioxide and water vapor.
These three types of catalytic converters all function similarly, but they are designed to deal with different types and amounts of pollutants.
Install or Remove different types of catalytic convertors
History of the Catalytic Converter
The catalytic converter was invented in the 1950s by Eugene Houdry, a French-born engineer who moved to the United States in 1930. Houdry was researching ways to reduce air pollution caused by automobiles when he devised the idea of using a catalytic converter to convert harmful pollutants into less harmful substances.
Houdry's catalytic converter was first widely used in 1975, when the United States government passed legislation requiring catalytic converters to be installed in all new cars and trucks. Catalytic converters have since become standard equipment on the majority of vehicles worldwide.
Catalytic Converter Theft
Because they contain precious metals such as platinum and palladium, catalytic converters are frequently stolen from cars and trucks. The catalytic converter can be easily removed from a vehicle and sold for scrap metal for a few hundred dollars.
Theft of catalytic converters is a serious problem in many countries, and it’s often difficult for the police to catch the thieves. In some cases, a metal cage or security device can be used to protect the catalytic converter from theft.
Catalytic converter theft has increased in recent years, and it is becoming a major issue for car owners. If you have a catalytic converter installed in your vehicle, you should be aware of the risk of theft and take precautions to protect your property.
Catalytic converter theft has become so common in some countries that insurance companies are now offering special coverage to protect against it.
How Catalytic Converters Affect Junk Car Prices
We now know that catalytic converters can reduce the value of your junk car because they contain recyclable metals. But did you know that catalytic converters can also influence the value of your junk car? Here's how it's done:
If your catalytic converter is missing or damaged, the offer you receive for your junk car will most likely be lower. This is due to the high cost of replacing catalytic converters. A catalytic converter can cost anywhere from $800 to $1,200. If your catalytic converter is missing or damaged, the salvage yard will most likely offer you a lower price for your junk car.
On the other hand, if you have a good condition catalytic converter, you may be able to get a higher offer for your junk car. This is due to the fact that catalytic converters contain recyclable metals. So, if you have a good condition catalytic converter, the salvage yard may offer you a higher price for your junk car.
Important to note: If your catalytic converter isn't an original (you replaced it), it's possible that any offer you receive when selling a junk vehicle will be reduced.
Take extra precautions to avoid having your catalytic converter stolen.
What’s Inside a Catalytic Converter?
Catalytic converters are composed of three major components: the housing, the catalytic converter, and the substrate.
Stainless steel or aluminum are commonly used for the housing. The honeycomb-shaped substrate of the catalytic converter is coated with platinum, palladium, and rhodium. The substrate catalyzes the reaction that transforms harmful emissions into harmless gases. A washcoat, which is a layer of material that helps to keep the catalytic converter clean, is also present on the catalytic converter.
These primary metals —platinum, palladium, and rhodium—are what make catalytic converters so valuable. As of this year, the average price of platinum has increased to $1,021 per ounce, while palladium has increased to $2,049 per ounce. Rhodium, on the other hand, is not traded on exchanges and its price is not available to the general public. Experts estimate that the price of rhodium could reach $15,500 per ounce!
This is why catalytic converters have such a significant impact on junk car prices. If you have a working catalytic converter, you may be able to get a better price for your junk car. However, if your catalytic converter is missing or damaged, the offer you receive for your junk car will most likely be lower.
How to Find Your Catalytic Converter
Don't worry if you don't know where your catalytic converter is. We've got your back.
The catalytic converter is situated beneath the vehicle, between the engine and the muffler. It is usually cylindrical in shape and made of stainless steel or aluminum.
If you are unable to locate your catalytic converter, or if it is missing or damaged, you can always contact a salvage yard and request a quote. Most salvage yards can provide you with an estimate over the phone.
How To Know the Price Of a Catalytic Converter
A catalytic converter's price can vary depending on a few factors.
The size of the catalytic converter is the first consideration. Because catalytic converters come in various sizes, the price will vary according to the size of the catalytic converter.
The type of catalytic converter is the second consideration. As previously stated, there are three types of catalytic converters: two-way, three-way, and diesel catalytic converters. The cost will differ depending on the type of catalytic converter used.
The catalytic converter's condition is the final consideration. If the catalytic converter is in good shape, you may be able to get a better price for your junk car. If, on the other hand, your catalytic converter is missing or damaged, you will most likely receive a lower offer for your junk car.
This is why, before selling your junk car, you should check the condition of your catalytic converter.
Tips For Selling Your Junk Car
Now that you understand how catalytic converters affect the value of your junk car, here are some tips for getting the most money for your junk car:
Make Sure the Catalytic Converter Is Attached
If your catalytic converter is missing or detached, the offer you receive for your junk car will most likely be reduced. So, if you intend to sell your junk car, make sure the catalytic converter is still attached. If it isn't, salvage yards may be able to assist you in attaching it or may make you a lower offer for your junk car.
Know the Condition of Your Catalytic Converter
As previously stated, the condition of your catalytic converter can have a significant impact on the price you receive for your junk car. Before you sell your junk car, check the condition of your catalytic converter.
If your junk car is in good condition, you may be able to get a higher offer for it. If it's missing or damaged, you'll probably get a lower offer.
Don’t Remove the Honeycomb From the Shell
The precious metals are contained in the honeycomb of the catalytic converter. As a result, removing the honeycomb from the shell will most likely result in a lower offer for your junk car.
Salvage yards typically pay by the pound, so removing the honeycomb will result in a lower payment for your junk car.
Make Sure the Shell of the Catalytic Converter Is Intact
The catalytic converter shell is important because it protects the honeycomb inside. The ceramic honeycomb contains platinum, palladium, and rhodium. These precious metals act as catalysts, assisting the catalytic converter in its function. When the catalytic converter shell is damaged, it is unable to adequately protect the honeycomb. This reduces the effectiveness of the catalytic converter, which may reduce the offer on your junk car.
Contact More Than One Salvage Yard
When you're ready to sell your junk car, contact at least three salvage yards. You can compare offers and get the best price for your junk car this way. If the prices are significantly lower than you expected, it could be a sign that the salvage yard is trying to take advantage of you or that they are unaware of the true value of catalytic converters.
Ask About Recycling Programs
Some salvage yards have catalytic converter recycling programs. These recycling programs allow you to get paid for your damaged catalytic converter.
If you intend to sell your junk car, make sure to inquire about recycling programs. Even if your catalytic converter is damaged, you may be able to get paid for it.
Recyclers work with junk yards
Conclusion
As you can see, catalytic converters have a significant impact on the value of your junk car. Before selling your junk car, make sure you know the condition of your catalytic converter and that it is attached. If your catalytic converter is damaged or missing, you will most likely receive a lower offer for your junk car.
If you have any questions about “catalytic converters or What impact do catalytic converters have on junk car prices,” contact a local, near or around your area salvage yard like Cyrus Auto Parts. They will be able to assist you and provide you with additional information on how to get the most money for your junk car.
Want to get an instant offer on your vehicle, fill out our online form “Sell Your Vehicle.”
Call: (937)250-6982
Address: 5518 W Third St, Dayton, OH 45417