Professional Paterson Catalytic Converter Buyers
Are you in Paterson looking for Paterson catalytic converter buyers who pay top dollar? SCC Automotive is your trusted partner for catalytic converter sales across Passaic County’s largest city and the heart of the New Jersey Gateway Region. With years of experience in the industry, we provide fair, transparent pricing based on current market conditions and precious metal content.
Whether you are a mechanic with a stockpile of take-offs, an auto salvage operator, a scrapyard owner, or an individual with converters to sell, we offer a straightforward process designed to give you competitive pricing and fast payment. As leading Paterson catalytic converter buyers, we serve customers throughout Passaic County and the surrounding New Jersey region, providing a hassle-free way to turn your catalytic converter sales into premium returns.
Paterson has experienced significant catalytic converter theft challenges, with local law enforcement and legislators working to combat the crime. In November 2022, Clifton police recovered 21 stolen catalytic converters while arresting four individuals in a theft ring operating in the Paterson area. New Jersey’s comprehensive catalytic converter regulations, championed by Senator Nellie Pou (D-Paterson), are designed to make it harder to resell stolen parts and discourage theft altogether.
The Paterson Automotive Market – Passaic County’s Thriving Hub
Paterson is the third-most populous city in New Jersey, with a population exceeding 159,000 residents, serving as a major economic and industrial center for Passaic County. Founded by Alexander Hamilton in 1791 as the nation’s first planned industrial city, Paterson has a long history of manufacturing and industry that continues to support a robust automotive ecosystem. The city’s position along major transportation corridors, including I-80 and the New Jersey Turnpike, makes it a strategic hub for automotive commerce and recycling operations.
The automotive recycling infrastructure in Paterson is substantial and well-established, with a robust network of scrap metal recycling facilities and auto salvage yards serving the community.
Gm Scrap & Metal at 222 Presidential Blvd, Paterson, NJ 07522, is a scrap metal recycling facility serving the Paterson community. The facility processes inbound scrap material from walk-in sellers, contractors, and salvage haulers. Regional scrap prices in Paterson include Bare Bright Copper at $3.66 per pound, #1 Copper at $3.63 per pound, and Steel (Heavy Melt) at $275.24 per ton. Auto sellers should expect the site to ask about drained fluids before intake — oil, coolant, fuel — and about whether batteries and catalytic converters need to come out separately. A phone call to the yard confirms what prep is needed.
United Scrap Iron & Metal Co at 124 Wood St, Paterson, NJ 07524, is a scrap metal recycling facility that accepts aluminum, brass, copper, and lead. The site takes inbound scrap from local sellers and small contractors, and acts as a paid outlet for material that would otherwise sit unused or head to landfill.
Magic Auto Salvage at 14 Bergen St, Paterson, NJ 07522, is a used auto parts store serving the Paterson community. The facility focuses on the delivery of car parts or scrap metal, with quality control. You can also ask them for an evaluation of your used car or information on buying a junk car.
The Paterson area also includes a network of auto salvage yards, including A&R Used Auto Parts (4.2 rating), Auto Haas (4.8 rating), Harry & Phil’s Auto Wrecking (4.2 rating), and Triangle Used Auto Parts (4.8 rating).
How Our Paterson Catalytic Converter Buyers Process Works
Step 1: Submit Photos
Send us clear photos of your catalytic converters. Include pictures of the inside from both ends so we can verify the material condition. Please also include the Factory OEM # if visible.
Step 2: Get Your Quote
After we receive your pictures and part numbers, we will provide a competitive quote. If you accept, provide your PayPal Email, Street Address, and Phone Number.
Step 3: Ship With Our Prepaid Label
We send payment to your PayPal immediately. Then you box up the converters, attach our prepaid shipping label, and drop them at any shipping location.
Understanding New Jersey’s Catalytic Converter Regulations for Paterson Buyers
When doing business in Paterson, it is essential to understand New Jersey’s comprehensive regulatory framework for catalytic converter transactions. New Jersey has enacted specific laws under P.L. 2009, c.8 and P.L. 2023, c.56 (S249) to address catalytic converter theft and regulate the sale of these components.
Senator Nellie Pou (D-Paterson) is a co-sponsor of S249 and a vocal advocate for catalytic converter theft prevention. Pou noted that “catalytic converter thefts have been popping up all over the state, leaving residents unable to drive their cars and in need of a major repair” and that “with this legislation we can make them harder to resell, and therefore less valuable”. Senator Sandra Cunningham (D-Jersey City) added that the legislation “aims to make it harder to resell stolen parts, in an effort to discourage the theft all together”.
Key New Jersey Regulations for Catalytic Converter Sales:
Definition of Scrap Metal – Under New Jersey law, “scrap metal” means used, discarded, or previously owned items that consist predominantly of ferrous metals, aluminum, brass, copper, lead, chromium, tin, nickel, or alloys, and shall include a used catalytic converter, in whole or in part, if the used catalytic converter is not attached to a motor vehicle.
Definition of Scrap Metal Business – A “scrap metal business” means a commercial establishment which, as one of its principal business purposes, purchases scrap metal for purposes of resale or processing.
Who Can Purchase Catalytic Converters – The purchase of a used catalytic converter, in whole or in part, that is not attached to a motor vehicle at the time of sale or attempted sale shall be limited to a scrap metal business, unless the seller of the used catalytic converter is a registered business that, in the regular course of business, collects, stores, or sells a catalytic converter or any other motor vehicle part.
Documentation Requirements for Sellers – For a used catalytic converter not attached to a motor vehicle at the time of sale or attempted sale, the scrap metal business must obtain:
- The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of the motor vehicle from which the catalytic converter was taken
- A copy of the certificate of title or registration, a receipt from a transaction of repair, or a bill of sale for the motor vehicle from which the catalytic converter was taken
Seller Identification Requirements – The operator of a scrap metal business must verify the identity of any person delivering or selling scrap metal by requesting and examining a photograph-bearing, valid State or federal driver’s license or other government-issued form of identification bearing a photograph.
Record-Keeping Requirements – Scrap metal businesses must maintain, for at least five years, a record of all receipts or purchases of scrap metal in excess of 100 pounds or $50, whichever is less, including:
- The date of receipt or purchase
- The name and address of the person delivering or selling
- The type and number of the identification presented, along with a copy of the identification
- A description of the scrap metal received
- The signature of the person delivering or selling
- For catalytic converters: VIN and proof of ownership documentation
Proposed Enhanced Penalties – Under proposed legislation Senate Bill 950, theft of a catalytic converter would constitute a crime one degree higher than the underlying theft offense. Current law grades theft based primarily on the value of the item involved. While the theft of a converter may only net thieves between $50 to $150 per device, replacing one on a vandalized vehicle can cost thousands of dollars. This discrepancy between the value of the stolen part versus the cost of replacing it incentivizes theft of these devices.
Proposed VIN Stamping Legislation – Under A4784 and S2997, car manufacturers would be required to stamp or engrave the vehicle identification number onto each catalytic converter installed in each motor vehicle sold within the state. According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau, theft of catalytic converters has dramatically increased in recent years, with approximately 3,400 claims filed in 2019 and the number more than tripling by 2020.
Paterson’s Local Enforcement – In November 2022, Clifton police recovered 21 catalytic converters while arresting four individuals in a theft ring operating in the Paterson area. Officers responding to a theft in progress on East 4th Street stopped a fleeing Kia in Paterson and arrested the lone occupant. A second vehicle crashed on Route 3 in Secaucus, where police arrested three additional occupants. Between both vehicles, police retrieved 21 catalytic converters, along with jack stands and cutting tools. Roughly half of the stolen converters have already been returned to their owners. All individuals were charged with receiving stolen property and possession of burglary tools.
Catalytic Converter Theft Prevention Tips – Allstate recommends:
- Install an anti-theft device
- Use motion sensor lights and cameras
- Etch your license plate number or VIN onto the part, which could alert a scrap dealer that it’s stolen and identify you as the owner
- Park in well-lit areas close to public entrances
Paterson’s Local Recycling Landscape – Paterson is served by established scrap metal recycling and auto salvage facilities that operate in compliance with state regulations. Gm Scrap & Metal, United Scrap Iron & Metal Co, and Magic Auto Salvage provide legitimate channels for legal catalytic converter transactions in the area. Only licensed scrap metal businesses may legally purchase used detached catalytic converters in New Jersey. A & R Used Auto Parts (4.2 rating), Auto Haas (4.8 rating), Harry & Phil’s Auto Wrecking (4.2 rating), and Triangle Used Auto Parts (4.8 rating) provide additional auto salvage services in the Paterson area.
What Catalytic Converters Paterson Buyers Will Purchase
We purchase a wide range of catalytic converters from diverse sources. Catalytic converters contain precious metals such as platinum, palladium, and rhodium, which make them valuable commodities. In the Paterson area, Gm Scrap & Metal accepts auto salvage and scrap metal, and United Scrap Iron & Metal Co accepts aluminum, brass, copper, and lead. Magic Auto Salvage focuses on the delivery of car parts or scrap metal.
Current Scrap Metal Prices in Paterson – The Paterson scrap metal market shows active pricing for various metals:
- Bare Bright Copper: $3.66 per pound
- #1 Copper: $3.63 per pound
- #2 Copper: $3.30 per pound
- Copper Pipe (Clean): $3.44 per pound
- Aluminum (Mixed): $0.48 per pound
- Aluminum Cans: $0.66 per pound
- Steel (Heavy Melt): $275.24 per ton
- Yellow Brass: $2.84 per pound
We actively seek OEM converters from all major automakers including Ford, General Motors, Toyota, Honda, Nissan, Hyundai, Kia, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, Volkswagen, and more.
We also purchase aftermarket converters. While these often have lower precious metal content than OEM units, they still hold value in the scrap market. We buy converters in any condition. Damaged, intact, gutted, worn, check engine light on, fleet vehicles, commercial trucks, collections, bulk lots – if it has a catalytic converter, we want to buy it.
Why SCC Automotive is the Top Choice for Paterson Catalytic Converter Buyers
- We Pay Top Dollar – Our pricing is based on real-time market analysis
- Transparent & Honest Evaluation – No hidden fees, no surprises
- Fast, No-Obligation Quotes – Submit photos and get a quote quickly
- Upfront Payment via PayPal – Payment before you ship
- Prepaid Shipping Labels – You do not pay for shipping
- Licensed & Insured – Professional, legitimate operation
- Serving All of Paterson – We serve customers across Passaic County and New Jersey
Paterson’s Commitment to Combating Catalytic Converter Theft
Paterson has been at the forefront of addressing catalytic converter theft, with local law enforcement and legislators championing new laws and enforcement efforts to combat the crime.
Legislative Leadership – Senator Nellie Pou (D-Paterson) is a co-sponsor of S249, which was signed into law in May 2023. Pou noted that “catalytic converter thefts have been popping up all over the state, leaving residents unable to drive their cars and in need of a major repair”. She has emphasized that the legislation makes converters harder to resell, and therefore less valuable to thieves.
Local Enforcement – In November 2022, Clifton police recovered 21 catalytic converters while arresting four individuals in a theft ring operating in the Paterson area. Officers responding to a theft in progress on East 4th Street stopped a fleeing Kia in Paterson and arrested the lone occupant. A second vehicle crashed on Route 3 in Secaucus, where police arrested three additional occupants. Between both vehicles, police retrieved 21 catalytic converters, along with jack stands and cutting tools. Roughly half of the stolen converters have already been returned to their owners. All individuals were charged with receiving stolen property and possession of burglary tools.
Prevention Tips – Allstate recommends several measures to protect against catalytic converter theft:
- Install an anti-theft device
- Use motion sensor lights and cameras
- Etch your license plate number or VIN onto the part, which could alert a scrap dealer that it’s stolen and identify you as the owner
- Park in well-lit areas close to public entrances
Proposed Enhanced Penalties – Under proposed legislation S950, theft of a catalytic converter would constitute a crime one degree higher than the underlying theft offense. This bill is sponsored by Senator Kristin M. Corrado (District 40, which includes parts of Passaic County). While the theft of a converter may only net thieves between $50 to $150 per device, replacing one on a vandalized vehicle can cost thousands of dollars. This discrepancy incentivizes theft, and the bill addresses this by imposing higher penalties for the underlying theft.
Proposed VIN Stamping Requirements – Under A4784 and S2997, car manufacturers would be required to stamp or engrave the vehicle identification number onto each catalytic converter installed in each motor vehicle sold within New Jersey. According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau, theft of catalytic converters has dramatically increased in recent years, with approximately 3,400 claims filed in 2019 and the number more than tripling by 2020. The legislation aims to make converters traceable and deter theft.
Catalytic Converter Theft Prevention Pilot Program – Under A5352, a two-year “Catalytic Converter Theft Prevention Pilot Program” would be established in the Department of Law and Public Safety to deter theft and aid in the recovery of stolen property. The program would mark select catalytic converters with permanent unique identifiers and maintain a registry of employed identifiers for tracing stolen property. An appropriation of $500,000 is made to effectuate the provisions of the bill.
Frequently Asked Questions About Paterson Catalytic Converter Buyers
Q: How do I get a quote from Paterson catalytic converter buyers?
A: Submit photos of your catalytic converters using our online form or email. Include inside photos from both ends and the Factory OEM # if visible.
Q: How do I get paid by Paterson catalytic converter buyers?
A: Once we agree on a price, you send us your PayPal Email and we send payment upfront before you ship.
Q: What condition do you accept as Paterson catalytic converter buyers?
A: We buy converters in ANY condition. Full or damaged, OEM or aftermarket.
Q: Do I pay for shipping from Paterson?
A: No! We provide a prepaid shipping label for you to use.
Q: Are there any legal requirements for selling catalytic converters in Paterson?
A: Yes. New Jersey law under P.L. 2009, c.8 and P.L. 2023, c.56 requires that used detached catalytic converters be sold only to licensed scrap metal businesses. Sellers must provide the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of the vehicle from which the converter was removed and a copy of the certificate of title or registration, a receipt from a transaction of repair, or a bill of sale for the motor vehicle. Sellers must also present a valid government-issued photo ID. Violations are disorderly persons offenses for first or second offenses and fourth-degree crimes for third and subsequent offenses. SCC Automotive is fully compliant with all New Jersey regulations.
Q: Where can Paterson residents recycle scrap metal?
A: Paterson residents can recycle scrap metal at Gm Scrap & Metal (222 Presidential Blvd, Paterson, NJ 07522), United Scrap Iron & Metal Co (124 Wood St, Paterson, NJ 07524), Magic Auto Salvage (14 Bergen St, Paterson, NJ 07522), A&R Used Auto Parts (1 Bergen St, Paterson, NJ 07522), Auto Haas (39 Summer St, Paterson, NJ 07524), Harry & Phil’s Auto Wrecking (45 Montgomery St, Paterson, NJ 07501), Triangle Used Auto Parts (185 River St, Paterson, NJ 07501), or other area facilities. It is recommended to bring a valid government-issued ID for regulated scrap items such as catalytic converters.
Q: Are there salvage yards in Paterson that buy non-running vehicles?
A: Yes, Paterson has salvage yards and scrap metal recyclers that may purchase non-running vehicles. Gm Scrap & Metal processes inbound scrap material from walk-in sellers, contractors, and salvage haulers. Magic Auto Salvage focuses on the delivery of car parts or scrap metal, and offers evaluations of used cars or information on buying a junk car. Most yards require proof of ownership (title) to complete the transaction. It is recommended to call ahead to confirm current pricing and acceptance.
Q: Which vehicles are most targeted by catalytic converter thieves?
A: According to industry data, pickup trucks, SUVs, and hybrid vehicles are frequently targeted because they sit higher off the ground, making it easier for thieves to access the catalytic converter. Thieves can remove a catalytic converter in as little as three minutes using a cordless saw. Catalytic converters contain precious metals such as rhodium, platinum, and palladium, which make them valuable targets. In the Paterson area, Clifton police recovered 21 catalytic converters from a theft ring operating in the Paterson area. New Jersey ranks among the top states for catalytic converter thefts.
Q: How can I protect my catalytic converter from theft in Paterson?
A: Recommended measures include parking in a garage or well-lit area, installing a catalytic converter shield, and etching the VIN on the converter to make it traceable. New Jersey has proposed legislation requiring vehicle identification numbers to be stamped onto catalytic converters of motor vehicles sold within the state. Allstate recommends etching your license plate number or VIN onto the part, which could alert a scrap dealer that it’s stolen and identify you as the owner. Additionally, New Jersey law requires scrap metal businesses to verify seller identity and maintain records of catalytic converter purchases, making it more difficult for thieves to sell stolen converters.
Q: What is the cost to replace a stolen catalytic converter?
A: Catalytic converter theft creates a financial burden for both individuals and businesses, often costing victims thousands of dollars in direct repair costs and increased insurance premiums. While the theft of a converter may only net thieves between $50 to $150 per device, replacing one on a vandalized vehicle can cost thousands of dollars. The damage often exceeds the cost of the converter itself, as thieves typically cut through the exhaust system, requiring additional repairs.
Q: When did New Jersey’s catalytic converter laws change?
A: New Jersey’s laws were updated in 2023 with the passage of P.L. 2023, c.56 (S249), which implemented certain guidelines concerning the purchase of catalytic converters. The law amended the definition of scrap metal to include used catalytic converters and established documentation requirements for the sale of detached converters. Senator Nellie Pou (D-Paterson) and Senator Sandra Cunningham (D-Jersey City) sponsored the legislation. Proposed legislation S950 would further enhance penalties by making catalytic converter theft a crime one degree higher than the underlying theft offense.
Q: Can I sell a catalytic converter from my own vehicle in Paterson?
A: Yes, you can sell a catalytic converter from your own vehicle in Paterson, provided you follow New Jersey’s legal requirements. You must sell to a licensed scrap metal business and provide documentation including the VIN of the vehicle from which the converter was removed and a copy of the certificate of title or registration, a receipt from a transaction of repair, or a bill of sale for the motor vehicle. You must also present a valid government-issued photo ID.
Why SCC Automotive is the Top Choice for Catalytic Converter Buyers in Paterson
SCC Automotive has earned the trust of catalytic converter sellers across Paterson and Passaic County by delivering a combination of competitive pricing, transparent processes, and professional service that sets us apart from other buyers.
1. Premium Pricing Based on Real-Time Market Analysis
Catalytic converters contain precious metals such as platinum, palladium, and rhodium, and their value fluctuates with global market conditions. The Paterson scrap market shows active pricing with Bare Bright Copper at $3.66 per pound and #1 Copper at $3.63 per pound. SCC Automotive monitors these markets continuously to ensure we offer top-dollar pricing for every converter we purchase. Our pricing reflects the true value of your materials, not arbitrary or outdated rates.
2. A Simple, Transparent Process
We understand that selling catalytic converters can be complicated, especially with New Jersey’s strict regulations under P.L. 2009, c.8 and P.L. 2023, c.56. SCC Automotive makes the process straightforward and transparent. Simply submit photos of your converters, receive a competitive quote, and if you accept, provide your PayPal information. We send payment upfront—before you even ship your converters. We then provide you with a prepaid shipping label, so you never pay for shipping.
3. Full Compliance with New Jersey Law
New Jersey law requires that used detached catalytic converters be sold only to licensed scrap metal businesses. Sellers must provide the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of the vehicle from which the converter was removed and a copy of the certificate of title or registration, a receipt from a transaction of repair, or a bill of sale for the motor vehicle. Sellers must also present a valid government-issued photo ID. SCC Automotive is fully licensed and compliant with all New Jersey regulations, giving you peace of mind that your transaction is legal and traceable.
4. Licensed, Insured, and Professional
Unlike unlicensed buyers or underground operators who may operate outside the law, SCC Automotive is a fully licensed and insured business. This means you can trust that your transaction is conducted with integrity and that your documentation is handled professionally. Dealing with a legitimate, licensed buyer protects you from legal exposure. New Jersey law makes it unlawful for unlicensed businesses to purchase catalytic converters, and only licensed scrap metal businesses may handle these transactions. Violations are disorderly persons offenses for first or second offenses and fourth-degree crimes for third and subsequent offenses. Senator Nellie Pou (D-Paterson) has championed legislation to make converters harder to resell and therefore less valuable to thieves.
5. Serving All of Passaic County
Whether you’re located in Paterson, near the Great Falls or the city center, or in the surrounding areas of Passaic County, SCC Automotive serves the entire region. Our convenient shipping process means you don’t have to travel to sell your converters—we handle everything remotely from quote to payment to shipping.
6. Fast, No-Obligation Quotes
We understand that time is valuable. That’s why we provide fast, no-obligation quotes based on your photos. There’s no pressure to sell—just honest, transparent pricing that helps you make an informed decision.
7. Upfront Payment via PayPal
Unlike some buyers who delay payment or require you to ship before receiving funds, SCC Automotive sends payment to your PayPal immediately upon acceptance of your quote. You receive your money before you even box up your converters—a level of trust and service that sets us apart.
8. Commitment to Sustainability
By recycling catalytic converters with SCC Automotive, you’re contributing to a more sustainable automotive industry. Precious metals recovery from end-of-life converters reduces the need for new mining and helps keep valuable materials out of landfills. Paterson’s recycling infrastructure, including Gm Scrap & Metal, United Scrap Iron & Metal Co, and the network of auto salvage yards in the area, reflects the community’s commitment to environmental stewardship—a commitment we share.
Contact Paterson Catalytic Converter Buyers Today
Ready to get top dollar for your catalytic converters in Paterson?
📞 Call/Text: +1 (305) 301-4828
📧 Email: info@sccautomotive.com
💻 Submit Online: GET MY QUOTE
We serve all of Paterson, Passaic County, and surrounding areas. Licensed. Insured. Trusted.










