Hey guys!
Courtney here with my very first post! Today we'll be talking about shopping at junkyards---commonly known as "pick-a-part" or salvage yards.
My boyfriend Ryan bought another old car, so we decided to take a trip to a junkyard to see what we could find! I had never been to a junkyard before, so all of my expectations were based on that one scene from High School Musical 3.
It was a very cool experience, (despite it being 85 degrees out!) so I wanted to share what I learned!
As a first time junkyard junkie??? I don't know the proper terminology here---I had a few questions to start off that you may have as well!
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What is a junkyard and why would you go there in the first place?
A junkyard is a lot where old cars go to die. Just kidding! But kind of, as you can see in the following photos, older cars or cars with substantial damage are scrapped for parts that are in usable condition. Junkyards serve as a cheap alternative for car parts as opposed to ordering online or from the car dealer.
Where do I find a junkyard?
Ask around, or just Google "junkyards near me." We went to LKQ Pick-a-Part in Monrovia, CA. Browse the junkyard's website if they have one, or call in for more details on what they offer!
Should you prepare before your visit to the junkyard?
It's not necessary! But you can check the junkyard's website to get an idea of what types of cars they have! Make sure to bring a large bag and any tools you may need. (We brought a flat head & Phillips screwdriver, but we could have used a wrench for certain tasks as well!) Some individuals showed up with an entire tool kit. That's pretty hardcore, but a smart idea.
Okay, so how do you know what the hell to look for??
First off, you have to know a bit about your make and/or model of car. (Unlike me!!) Junkyards are often "organized" by the country in which the car make originates (i.e. European vs. Japanese cars). Next, have a running list of what you need! At this visit, we were looking for the button that opens the glove compartment, an accessory for the gear shift, AC vents, etc. I don't know all the technical names, so bear with me here! You can call or find online which cars the junkyard has to determine if they have the parts you need. Look in every single car that matches your requirements. Check the ground too!
How do I pay for these items? Are they free?
Unfortunately, most junkyards will have you pay for your items on top of a small entrance fee. From what I understand, there are set prices based on the type of part. We walked out only paying $12 for a handful of small items.
(I took home a spool of thread I found and a Volkswagen insignia badge. Why? I don't know, I just shoved them in my pocket!)
Additionally, here are some tips and things to keep in mind on your next trip to the junk yard!
- Don't expect to find everything you're looking for! It's called a salvage yard for a reason---take what you can!
- Have a physical or mental list of what you want to find on your visit!
- Come prepared! Bring a bag or cart to carry your items sand tools and have a vague idea of the yard's inventory.
- Be patient! Certain items can take a long time to retrieve! Ask for help if you need it.
- Bring a buddy (me) because I will ask you what you're doing constantly and bombard you with pictures and pretend to help. But actually, bring a friend to keep you company because junkyards feel really lonely and kind of apocalyptic. Also, you may just need an extra hand!
That's it! Good luck and happy hunting :)
