Quick Answer: A scrap catalytic converter in New Zealand is typically worth between $80 and $600, depending on the vehicle type and whether it’s an OEM or aftermarket unit. High-value OEM converters from European or hybrid vehicles can fetch $1,000 or more. The value comes from the platinum, palladium, and rhodium inside — precious metals that fluctuate with global commodity prices.
What’s in This Guide
- Catalytic Converter Scrap Value by Vehicle Type
- What Precious Metals Are Inside
- OEM vs Aftermarket — How to Tell the Difference
- Selling a Catalytic Converter in NZ — What You Need to Know
- Why Choose Trentham Wreckers
- Frequently Asked Questions
Catalytic Converter Scrap Value by Vehicle Type (2026 NZD)
Catalytic converter prices in New Zealand vary significantly based on the vehicle they came from. The main factor isn’t physical size — it’s the amount of precious metals loaded into the ceramic core during manufacturing.
Here are the typical scrap value ranges based on NZ market data:
| Vehicle Type | Typical NZD Scrap Value | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Small Car (Toyota Corolla, Honda Fit) | $80 – $300 | Standard precious metal loading |
| Sedan (Toyota Camry, Mazda 6) | $90 – $275 | Import sedans may sit higher |
| Mid-Size SUV (Toyota RAV4, Nissan X-Trail) | $200 – $600 | Larger converters with more PGMs |
| Truck / Ute (Toyota Hilux, Ford Ranger) | $150 – $700 | Petrol utes higher than diesel |
| Diesel Vehicle (DPF/Cat) | $20 – $700 | Wide range — some diesel cats are very low value |
| European / Luxury (BMW, Mercedes, Audi) | $500 – $1,500+ | High PGM loading in OEM units |
| Hybrid (Toyota Prius, Aqua) | $600 – $1,000+ | Engine runs less so converter stays cleaner |
NZ scrap yards like Endless Metals in Auckland publish simplified buy prices — typically $50, $100, or $180 per converter depending on size and grade. The actual payout depends heavily on the specific unit and the buyer’s assessment of its precious metal content.
What Precious Metals Are Inside a Catalytic Converter?
Every catalytic converter contains a ceramic or metallic honeycomb core coated with platinum group metals (PGMs) — specifically platinum (Pt), palladium (Pd), and rhodium (Rh). These metals catalyse the chemical reactions that convert harmful exhaust gases into less toxic emissions.
A typical converter contains 2–8 grams of total PGMs, with higher-end OEM units from European and hybrid vehicles containing more. Here’s what each metal contributes:
| Metal | Typical Amount | Role in Converter | Value Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Platinum (Pt) | 3–7 grams | Oxidation catalyst, common in diesel systems | Moderate — stable pricing |
| Palladium (Pd) | 2–7 grams | Reduction catalyst in petrol converters | High — petrol car value driver |
| Rhodium (Rh) | 1–2 grams | NOx reduction, rarest PGM | Very high — biggest value driver |
Scrap buyers typically pay 25–35% of the spot metal value after accounting for refining costs and losses. This is why two converters that look similar can have very different scrap values — the metal loading varies significantly between manufacturers and models.
OEM vs Aftermarket Catalytic Converters — How to Tell the Difference
The single biggest factor in catalytic converter scrap value is whether it’s an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) or aftermarket replacement unit. OEM converters are worth significantly more because they contain higher precious metal loading.
| Type | NZD Scrap Value | Why |
|---|---|---|
| OEM | $90 – $1,500+ | Higher, more predictable precious metal content |
| Aftermarket | $15 – $100 | Lower metal loading, less valuable to recyclers |
Here’s how to identify which type you have:
| Feature | OEM Converter | Aftermarket Converter |
|---|---|---|
| Markings | Manufacturer logo, OE part number, serial stamp | Generic stamp, no logo, “N” codes, minimal marking |
| Exterior Finish | Polished, factory-like appearance | More utilitarian or rougher finish |
| Shield/Casing | Matched to vehicle exhaust layout | Silver shield with arrow marking |
| Welds | Cleaner, more uniform | Visible, uneven replacement welds |
| Weight | Often bulkier and heavier | Typically lighter and simpler |
The most reliable method is to compare the stamped part number against the vehicle’s OEM parts catalogue or use a VIN-based parts lookup.
Selling a Catalytic Converter in NZ — What You Need to Know
If you’re scrapping a car or replacing a catalytic converter, there are some important legal and practical considerations in New Zealand.
NZ Law on Catalytic Converter Sales
Catalytic converters are treated as a type of scrap metal under the Crimes Act in New Zealand. The scrap-metal offence provisions are designed to prevent dealing in stolen scrap metal. When selling a converter, you should be able to prove:
- Lawful possession or source of the converter
- Documentation such as an invoice, repair order, or proof of vehicle ownership
- Identification — most buyers will ask for photo ID
Can You Remove a Catalytic Converter From Your Own Car?
Removing the converter from your own vehicle isn’t the issue — the legal question is whether the car remains roadworthy afterwards. If removing the converter makes the vehicle non-compliant with emissions or WoF requirements, driving it on-road becomes a separate legal problem.
Getting the Best Price
To maximise your payout when selling a scrap catalytic converter:
- Photograph all markings before cleaning — serial numbers and stamps help buyers assess value
- Know if it’s OEM or aftermarket — this is the biggest price differentiator
- Get multiple quotes — prices vary significantly between buyers
- Don’t cut it open — buyers prefer intact units for accurate assessment
Why Choose Trentham Wreckers
If you’ve got a car with a catalytic converter you want to sell — or the whole vehicle — Trentham Wreckers offers cash for cars across Wellington. We take complete vehicles in any condition, including those with valuable catalytic converters still attached.
Rather than dealing with the hassle of removing and selling a converter separately, you can sell the entire car and get paid on the spot. We handle free car removal across the Wellington region, including Upper Hutt, Lower Hutt, Porirua, and the Hutt Valley.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is a catalytic converter worth in NZ?
Most catalytic converters in New Zealand are worth between $80 and $600 as scrap. OEM units from European or hybrid vehicles can reach $1,000–$1,500+. Aftermarket replacements are typically only worth $15–$100.
What makes some catalytic converters more valuable than others?
The value depends on how much platinum, palladium, and rhodium is inside the ceramic core. OEM converters from luxury and hybrid vehicles contain more of these precious metals than standard or aftermarket units.
Is it legal to sell a catalytic converter in New Zealand?
Yes, but catalytic converters fall under scrap metal provisions in the Crimes Act. You’ll need to prove lawful possession — typically through a vehicle ownership document, repair invoice, or dismantling record. Most buyers will ask for photo ID.
How do I know if my catalytic converter is OEM or aftermarket?
OEM converters usually have a manufacturer logo, OE part number, and cleaner factory welds. Aftermarket units often have a silver shield with an arrow, generic markings, and serial numbers starting with “N”.
Can I just sell the catalytic converter or should I sell the whole car?
Both options are available. However, selling the whole car to a wrecker is often simpler and can net you more overall — especially when the converter value is factored into the total vehicle offer alongside other recyclable components.
Which cars have the most valuable catalytic converters in NZ?
Toyota Prius and other hybrids, European vehicles (BMW, Mercedes, Audi), and larger petrol SUVs tend to have the highest-value converters. These are also the most targeted vehicles for catalytic converter theft.
