Why are catalytic converters so valuable?

A catalytic converter is one of the most expensive parts of a car. Why is it so expensive and what to do if it fails?

What is a catalytic converter?

A catalytic converter is an exhaust emission control which reduces the amount of toxic pollutants of the exhaust gas leaving the engine combustion chamber. When viewed from the outside the catalytic converter looks very inconspicuous with its shape being similar to that of a silencer and resembling a can. The real “treasure” however is the interior with a multi-channel structure the arrangement of which resembles a honeycomb. The channel walls are coated with various elements such as platinum, rhodium or palladium., all of them being noble metals which is the reason why the catalyst converters are not cheap.

How does a catalytic converter work?

The operation of a catalytic converter is possible only with the noble metals which react with the exhaust from an engine. The effect of the chemical reaction is a reduction of the toxic chemicals contained in the exhaust gas. Currently, the catalytic converters are placed close to the exhaust manifold. Such a solution improves the efficiency of the catalytic converter due to higher temperature of the exhaust gas which in turn accelerates the chemical reaction and makes it more effective.

Are catalytic converters durable?

Despite harsh working conditions a catalytic converter is a very durable part of an exhaust system. The operation of a catalytic converter is particularly difficult because of e.g. significant temperature fluctuations or moisture. Additionally, in older car models a catalytic converter is exposed to impacts as it is located under the car floor plate. According to the manufacturers’ data the life of a catalytic converter is about 200,000 kilometres. Catalytic converters used currently can be divided into two types: ceramic or metallic according to the design.

What to do if a catalytic converter fails?

If a catalytic converter gets damaged the best solution is to replace it with a new one. You should avoid buying second-hand catalytic converters as their actual condition can never be assessed properly. The catalytic converter reconditioning services are more and more easily available these days but, unfortunately, the quality of the services leaves much to be desired. Remember that even a damaged catalytic converter is quite valuable. Therefore, even if you buy a new one it is recommended to sell the one you have just removed at a collection point. This will help you to save money and pay less for the one you have just bought.

Where to sell a catalytic converter?

Catalytic converters cannot be sold at any location at your discretion e.g. a scrap collection point. The right place for selling a damaged converter is a catalytic converter collection point which is professional recycling company. It is always good to explore the market before selecting a specific point to get the highest price for your damaged catalytic converter. A partner worth recommending is DS AUTO Sp. z o.o. Chrzanów -> https://katalizatorychrzanow.pl/. The selling price depends on the model of the catalytic converter.