Catalytic converter scrap prices in South Africa.
What a scrap converter is worth in 2026, what decides the price, and how to get the exact price for yours today.
Updated 10 November 2026 · by PGM Recycling, registered with the SADPMR
There is no single price. Each converter is priced on its own.
A scrap catalytic converter is worth the platinum, palladium and rhodium inside it. Car makers load every model differently, so two units that look the same can be worth very different amounts. The price also moves every day with the metal markets and the rand.
That is why an honest buyer prices your exact unit by its reference number, on that day's metal prices, and shows you how the price was reached.
Send us the reference number and a photo. We check it against our database of more than 35,000 converters and reply with a price for that unit. Collection is free anywhere in South Africa and nothing is deducted.
Six things set the value of a scrap converter.
1. The model
Every converter model carries its own amount of precious metal. The reference number on the shell tells a buyer exactly which one it is. This is the biggest factor by far.
2. Original or aftermarket
Original (OEM) units fitted by the car maker generally hold much more metal than aftermarket replacements, so they are generally worth more.
3. Petrol or diesel
Petrol converters mainly use palladium and rhodium. Diesel converters and DPFs mainly use platinum. The mix changes the value as each metal's price moves.
4. How much is left inside
The value is in the honeycomb. A full unit is worth more than one that is broken, cut open or partly empty. Loose honeycomb is still bought.
5. Today's metal prices
Platinum, palladium and rhodium trade in US dollars and change daily. The rand exchange rate matters too. A price given last month is not today's price.
6. Who you sell to
A middleman keeps a cut before selling on. A direct buyer who processes for its own account has no cut to take, so more of the metal value reaches you.
From photo to payment in three steps.
Send the number and a photo
WhatsApp 084 306 6660 the reference number stamped on the shell and a clear photo of the whole unit. No number? The photo is enough for an estimate.
We identify it and quote
The unit is matched against our database of more than 35,000 converters and priced on that day's platinum, palladium and rhodium prices.
Free collection, paid on the spot
One of our own agents comes to you. Each unit is checked in front of you, with XRF testing where needed. You get an invoice and are paid by cash or EFT.
What each type is generally worth.
A general guide only. The reference number decides the real price.
Original ceramic converters
The most common type and usually the most valuable. A ceramic honeycomb coated with precious metal, fitted by the car maker. Priced by reference number.
Aftermarket converters
Replacement units from parts suppliers. They generally hold far less metal than originals, so they are worth less, but they are still bought.
Metallic (foil) converters
A metal foil core in place of ceramic, found on some performance cars, motorcycles and older vehicles. The value varies widely by model.
Diesel particulate filters (DPF)
Larger units from diesel cars, bakkies, trucks and buses. Many contain platinum. Some hold very little, which is why each one is identified first.
Loose honeycomb and substrate
Material that has fallen out or been removed from the shell. It cannot be identified by number, so it is tested by XRF and paid on its real content.
Bulk lots from the trade
Workshop bins and scrapyard lots are priced unit by unit, not as a blended guess, so good units are paid as good units.
Why a price list online is rarely the price you get.
Many adverts quote one high figure. That figure is for the rarest unit on the best day, not for the converter in your hands. A fixed list also goes out of date as soon as the metal prices move.
- Ask for the price of your exact reference number, not an average.
- Ask which day's metal prices the quote is based on.
- Ask what is deducted for transport, testing or agent fees. With us, nothing.
- Ask for an invoice. A registered buyer always gives one.
Catalytic converter prices: common questions
How much is a scrap catalytic converter worth in South Africa?
Why do two converters that look the same get different prices?
Are original converters worth more than aftermarket ones?
Is a diesel particulate filter (DPF) worth anything?
Is a damaged or half-empty converter still worth selling?
Where is the reference number on a catalytic converter?
How do I get the best price for my catalytic converter?
Do I need ID to sell a catalytic converter in South Africa?
Catalytic converter buyers near you.
Get the price of your converter today.
Send the reference number and a photo on WhatsApp. We reply with a price for that exact unit, collect free anywhere in South Africa and pay on the spot with an invoice.