How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Catalytic Converter?

The average cost for a catalytic converter replacement is roughly between $2,164 and $2,483, according to RepairPal, an independent auto research firm that tracks common repairs and reliability. This average includes parts and labor but not local sales tax and fees. This is just a ballpark estimate, however; the actual cost to replace your catalytic converter can vary wildly due to several factors, which we'll cover in this story.

Catalytic converters play a crucial role in our vehicles. Inside the converters, metals convert toxic exhaust gases into less harmful emissions. These metals, and the converter as a whole, can be very valuable, so it isn't uncommon to see a high number of catalytic converter thefts. Over time, catalytic converters can also fail — by way of partial or complete obstruction, broken internal pieces and/or an exhaust leak — and will require replacement.

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Catalytic converter cost breakdown
Key factors that affect catalytic converter pricing
Catalytic converter price estimates for popular vehicles
Catalytic converter scrap prices as of February 2026

Catalytic converter cost breakdown

A catalytic converter connects to your vehicle's exhaust system and is designed to reduce the release of harmful emissions into the atmosphere. Using precious metals like platinum, palladium and rhodium in a honeycomb-like internal structure to trigger chemical reactions, it converts toxic gases like carbon monoxide and unburned hydrocarbons into less harmful substances, which are then emitted from the exhaust pipe. 

Although you may be able to drive your vehicle without a catalytic converter, we don't recommend doing so for a number of reasons.

The total cost of replacing a catalytic converter includes the cost of the part itself, the labor to install it, and any other associated repairs required for the catalytic converter to operate properly. 

• Parts: A new catalytic converter can cost an average of $2,202, according to RepairPal. The high cost is mainly due to the precious metals used in its design, which is also why catalytic converters have become popular targets for thieves in recent years. 
• Labor: ReparPal estimates labor costs to replace a catalytic converter at $144-$211. These prices will vary greatly by location, whether you use a dealership or an independent mechanic, how easy it is to access the converter in your vehicle, and the replacement converter's design. Direct-fit converters can usually be replaced quickly, but universal-style converters often require welding, which increases labor costs. If other work is performed during the installation of the new converter (such as adding an anti-theft device), additional labor charges may be applied. 
• Incidental repairs: If oxygen sensors or other exhaust components are damaged or missing, they may need to be replaced to ensure the vehicle operates properly, which can add to the final tally. 

Key factors that affect catalytic converter pricing

• Vehicle type and model: Luxury vehicles, large trucks and SUVs, and high-performance models are often equipped with more sophisticated — and thus more expensive — catalytic converters due to their powerful engines, which require a higher concentration of precious metals in the converter's construction. The catalytic converters used with hybrid models can also be particularly expensive. 
• Part quality (factory versus aftermarket): Choosing an original factory part ensures a perfect fit, proper performance and a long service life, but it can cost anywhere from 40% to 70% more than one of its aftermarket counterparts. Aftermarket parts tend to be more budget-friendly, but quality, fitment and performance may vary. 
• Part type: There are direct-fit catalytic converters that are specifically produced for certain vehicles. These converters might require less work to install but may cost more because of their specificity. On the other hand, universal catalytic converters are not designed for any particular car, but they may require more work to install because of the distinctive exhaust systems in different vehicles. There are also CARB-compliant (California Air Resources Board) catalytic converters designed to meet California's stricter emissions standards, which are more stringent than federal standards. A handful of other states also use CARB standards.
• Market pricing: Like gas prices, catalytic converter pricing is regional and can fluctuate in the direction of the precious metal markets. 

Catalytic converter price estimates for popular vehicles

Here's a quick list of the most popular cars in America and their average catalytic converter replacement costs. The prices come from RepairPal and include parts and labor. Note: These prices exclude sales taxes and local fees. Prices can also vary by location and depending on the year, make, model and engine type. Make sure to contact your local dealer or mechanic for the most accurate prices.

1. Pricing for a late-model Ford F-150 catalytic converter: between $1,655 and $1737
2. Pricing for a late-model Chevrolet Silverado 1500 catalytic converter: between $3,124 and $3,241
3. Pricing for a late-model Toyota RAV4 catalytic converter: between $970 and $1,064
4. Pricing for a late-model Honda CR-V catalytic converter: between $1,976 and $2,398
5. Pricing for a late-model GMC Sierra 1500 catalytic converter: between $3,075 and $3,196
6. Pricing for a late-model Ram 1500 catalytic converter: between $2,804 and $3,898
7. Pricing for a late-model Chevrolet Equinox catalytic converter: between $1,730 and $1,964 
8. Pricing for a late-model Toyota Camry catalytic converter: between $1,827 and $2,165
9. Pricing for a late-model Toyota Tacoma catalytic converter: between $1,273 and $1,342
10. Pricing for a late-model Toyota Prius catalytic converter: between $2,346 and $2,413

Catalytic converter scrap prices as of February 2026

The amount you'll pay for a new catalytic converter will depend on the vehicle, and the same goes for scrapping your old converter. We recommend you scrap your old catalytic converter rather than simply trash it. It is unequivocally better for the environment, and it can put some dough in your pocket. We have assembled a list, specifically intended for recycling purposes, of some of the current average catalytic converter scrap prices as quoted by Scrap Monster, arranged from the most valuable to the least. Note that the prices below are only averages and will change with time. Use these figures to get a ballpark idea of the prices you can expect. 

It is important to note that some catalytic converter recycling centers are now adhering to stringent anti-theft policies that, in some cases, require sellers to provide detailed proof that the converter came from a vehicle under their ownership, along with other information about the sellers. The best way to find an accurate scrap price for your particular catalytic converter is to request a quote directly from your chosen buyer.

1. Torpedo high-grade catalytic converters (found on large Ford vehicles): $820 each
2. Super exotic catalytic converters: $670 each
3. Exotic catalytic converters: $540 each
4. Honda O2 high-grade catalytic converters: $500 each
5. Torpedo special catalytic converters: $469 each
6. Exotic small catalytic converters: $670 each
7. Foreign extra-large catalytic converters: $400 each
8. Foreign large catalytic converters: $400 each 
9. Torpedo medium catalytic converters: $315 each 
10. Honda O2 regular catalytic converters: $300 each
11. Foreign medium catalytic converters: $273 each
12. Domestic extra-large catalytic converters: $250 each
13. Foreign small catalytic converters: $228 each
14. Domestic high-grade catalytic converters: $200 each
15. General Motors large catalytic converters: $195 each
16. Foreign low-grade catalytic converters: $155 each
17. General Motors medium catalytic converters: $150 each
18. Volvo special catalytic converters: $150 each
19. Domestic large catalytic converters: $145 each
20. General Motors regular catalytic converters: $120 each
21. Torpedo regular catalytic converters: $120 each 
22. Foreign pre-catalytic converters: $117 each
23. Jeep catalytic converters: $100 each
24. Domestic regular catalytic converters: $80 each
25. Torpedo low-grade catalytic converters: $70 each 
26. General Motors low-grade catalytic converters: $65 each
27. High-grade pre-catalytic converters: $65 each
28. Low-grade pre-catalytic converters: $65 each
29. Regular pre-catalytic converters: $45 each
30. Domestic low-grade catalytic converters: $40 each
31. Ford low-grade catalytic converters: $40 each
32. Aftermarket catalytic converters: $20 each
33. Diesel catalytic converters: $13 each

Edmunds says

Catalytic converters contain fine metals that carry value, and its overall function makes it an important vehicle component. That is why we recommend doing some research before pulling the trigger on such a costly replacement.