Catalytic converters use catalysts to convert some of the dangerous gases produced by your car’s exhaust into benign substances.

Rare precious metals such as platinum and palladium are brushed onto a honeycomb-shaped matrix inside the catalytic converter.

As the vehicle’s exhaust flows by, the metals convert gases like carbon monoxide and smog-producing hydrocarbons into carbon dioxide and water.

A catalytic converter contain several types of metals, including:

copper
nickel
cerium
iron
manganese
They also contain a small amount of rhodium. Rhodium, along with platinum and palladium, are very rare precious metals that are used in other industries. These materials are in high demand, and make up the most valuable components.