If you have an older car, you may have been told that the catalytic converter has deteriorated to the point that it needs to be replaced. Or, you may be planning on getting rid of the entire vehicle by selling it off for scrap.

In either scenario, you should seriously consider setting the catalytic converter aside to sell it to a recycling center separately. There are a couple of reasons why you should consider doing this.

1.  Yields More Money for the Scrap Because Some Components Are Made from Precious Metals

One reason why you should consider recycling your old car's catalytic converter by itself is that it will typically yield more money at the scrap yard when it is rated and weighed by itself. Unlike other parts of your car, the converter contains components that are made from precious metals.

Depending on the year, make, and model of the vehicle, the catalytic converter will contain platinum, rhodium, and/or palladium. These three metals make up the core of the environmental controls within the part, helping to reduce the impact of its emissions.

All of these metals are highly coveted by scrap yards and recycling centers because they allow the business to profit from them. As far as how much you will get for the part, a representative at the center will need to know which metals are contained within your specific model of the catalytic converter.

2.  Helps Reduce the Environmental Impacts of Mining for the Precious Metals

Another reason why you should recycle the catalytic converter is that it helps to reduce impacts on the environment. The precious metals within the part must be mined.

Within any mining operation, the earth is disturbed removing the metals. Also, the equipment used during the operations often pollutes the surrounding areas. By recycling the catalytic converter, the metals can be reused to decrease the demand for mining them.

If you need to replace the catalytic converter on your car or are planning to scrap the entire vehicle, recycling the part will allow you to get extra money while reducing some of the impacts on the environment caused by mining for the precious metals it contains. If you are considering scrapping the part, speak with a representative of a business near you that offers catalytic converter recycling services to find out what needs to be done beforehand as well as the going rate.

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