Buys Old Catalytic Converters | Who

The recycling of old catalytic converters is a multi-billion dollar global industry driven by the high value of the precious metals found inside them. These automotive components, designed to reduce toxic emissions, contain a core coated with platinum, palladium, and rhodium. As a result, a diverse ecosystem of buyers exists to reclaim these materials, ranging from local scrap yards to industrial-scale refineries. 🚗 Local Scrap Yards and Auto Salvage

📢 Due to a significant rise in catalytic converter theft, many regions have implemented strict laws governing who can sell them. In many jurisdictions, buyers are required to verify the seller’s identification, keep detailed transaction records, and sometimes issue payment via check rather than cash to create a paper trail for law enforcement. who buys old catalytic converters

Above the local scrap yard are specialized catalytic converter "core buyers." These companies do not deal in general scrap metal; they focus exclusively on exhaust components. Core buyers often travel to various repair shops and dealerships to purchase large quantities of converters. They use sophisticated databases and handheld X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analyzers to determine the exact precious metal content of a unit, allowing them to offer more competitive and accurate pricing than a general scrapyard. 🧪 Large-Scale Refineries and Processors The recycling of old catalytic converters is a