Profile
Paul’s Auto Yard: Merrillville’s Premier Self-Service Salvage Yard
History and Establishment in Merrillville, IN
Paul’s Auto Yard at 6530 Broadway, Merrillville, IN 46410 has been a cornerstone of the local automotive industry since 1976. This family-owned and operated business has grown over four and a half decades to become one of Indiana’s most trusted salvage yards, now boasting 13 locations across the state.
The Merrillville yard is part of Paul’s larger network specializing in used auto parts, junk car removal, and scrap metal recycling. While specific details about the original founders aren’t widely publicized, the company’s long-standing reputation in Northwest Indiana speaks to its stability and reliability in the vehicle recycling industry.
In 2014, Paul’s Auto Yard was acquired by Schnitzer Steel Industries (SMS), a metals recycling company, though the business continues to operate under its original family brand name and maintains its community-focused approach to service.
For car enthusiasts and budget-conscious vehicle owners throughout the region, Paul’s has become synonymous with affordable quality used parts and straightforward cash-for-cars services in Merrillville and beyond.
Services Offered at Paul’s Auto Yard
Paul’s Auto Yard operates primarily as a self-service salvage yard with complementary full-service options at their Merrillville location. Their comprehensive range of services caters to DIY mechanics, repair shops, and vehicle owners looking to save money on automotive repairs.
| Service Category | Description | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Used Auto Parts Sales | Offers “a million” used car and truck parts across their network | Affordable alternatives to new OEM parts with competitive pricing |
| Junk Car Purchase & Towing | Buys non-running vehicles for scrap, paying cash on the spot | Free towing service and immediate payment for unwanted vehicles |
| Pick-A-Part Self-Service | Self-service lot where customers locate and remove parts themselves | Lower prices compared to pre-pulled parts; educational experience |
| U-Haul Rentals | Trailer/truck rentals for transporting larger parts | Convenient solution for moving heavy or bulky parts |
Self-Service vs. Full-Service Options
The yard primarily functions as a pick-and-pull facility where customers can browse the inventory, find the vehicles they need, and remove parts themselves. This hands-on approach allows for significant savings compared to retail auto parts stores. While you’ll need to bring your own tools, the satisfaction of finding exactly the part you need is unmatched.
Complementing their self-service model, Paul’s also offers full-service features including:
– Free towing for vehicles they purchase
– Cash on the spot for junk cars in any condition
– Customer support to help locate specific vehicles in their yard
Unlike some competitors, Paul’s does not sell complete used vehicles at the Merrillville location, focusing instead on parts sales and vehicle purchasing. They also don’t appear to offer shipping services, relying on local pickup and their U-Haul rental options for parts transportation.
If you’re looking to get cash for your junk car, Paul’s Auto Yard offers a straightforward process that eliminates middlemen and provides immediate payment.
Available Vehicle Types
Paul’s Auto Yard in Merrillville maintains a diverse inventory that caters to various repair needs and budgets. Their rotating stock includes multiple vehicle categories to ensure customers can find the part they need.
Vehicle Categories in Stock
- Cars: A wide range of domestic and foreign sedans and coupes
- SUVs: Various sport utility vehicles from multiple manufacturers
- Vans: Commercial and passenger variants
- Trucks: Both light-duty and heavy-duty models
The yard stocks both domestic and foreign makes, including popular brands like Ford, Chevrolet, Toyota, Honda, and many others. While specific models aren’t explicitly listed in their materials, their inventory is constantly updated with “new used cars” arriving daily.
For those seeking specific parts, such as a used engine block or quality used side mirrors, the Merrillville location’s rotating stock offers regular opportunities to find what you’re looking for at prices far below retail.
Popular Auto Parts Available
Based on Paul’s Auto Yard’s inventory across their locations, including Merrillville, customers frequently purchase these high-value used auto parts:
Most Sought-After Parts
- Engines: Complete engine assemblies or core parts for repairs and rebuilds are among the most valuable and sought-after items. These can save customers thousands compared to new replacements.
- Fuel System Parts:
- Gas Tanks: Full or partial fuel tanks for direct replacement
- Fuel Pumps: Both electric and mechanical pumps that deliver fuel to the engine
- Cooling System Parts:
- Radiators: Aluminum or copper radiators for thermal regulation, essential for preventing engine overheating
- Exterior and Structural Parts:
- Headlights: Front lighting assemblies including lenses and housings
- Tire Rims: Steel or alloy wheels for vehicle reinstatement
These parts represent significant value when purchased used, as they typically retain their functionality while costing a fraction of new replacements. For budget-conscious repairs, finding a quality used radiator can make the difference between an affordable fix and an expensive shop visit.
Pricing Information
Paul’s Auto Yard at 6530 Broadway, Merrillville, IN 46410 does not publicly list specific auto part prices or provide a downloadable price list in their available materials. Their business model focuses on providing used auto parts at competitive rates, but exact figures are not disclosed online.
Customer reviews highlight “decent prices” and “better pricing” compared to other yards, particularly for hard-to-find parts. One advantage of their self-service model is that customers can often find significant savings compared to retail parts stores or dealer prices.
For current pricing information, customers are encouraged to contact the yard directly at (800) 261–2789 or visit in person. Since inventory changes frequently and part condition varies, pricing is typically assessed on a case-by-case basis.
Service Area
Paul’s Auto Yard in Merrillville serves customers from throughout Northwest Indiana, with particular focus on these nearby communities:
- Crown Point
- Hobart
- Griffith
- Schererville
- Saint John
- Lake Station
- Gary
- Dyer
These nearby towns and cities provide a steady stream of customers looking for affordable used parts and cash for junk cars services. The yard’s convenient location on Broadway makes it accessible to residents throughout the region looking to find quality used car headlights or other auto parts.
As one of 13 locations across Indiana, the Merrillville yard is part of a broader network serving the state’s used auto parts needs. For customers throughout Indiana looking for reliable salvage yards, Paul’s Auto Yard provides consistent service across their locations.
Parts Interchange System
The address 6530 Broadway, Merrillville, IN 46410 corresponds to Shafer Pick A Part, not Paul’s Auto Yard, based on available information. However, Paul’s Auto Yard (at their Lake Station, IN location) employs an auto parts interchange system to help customers identify compatible parts across different vehicles.
This system allows customers to search for parts that fit multiple makes or models, making the process of finding replacement parts much more efficient. For example, many parts are interchangeable between different years of the same model, or even between different models from the same manufacturer.
While specific details about the Merrillville location’s interchange capabilities aren’t explicitly mentioned, Paul’s Auto Yard’s broader network offers this valuable service to help customers locate the exact parts they need, even when the original vehicle model might not be available in their inventory.
For those looking to find OEM used fuel pumps or other specific parts, these interchange systems can significantly expand the range of vehicles that might supply the needed part.
Warranty Information
Paul’s Auto Yard offers a used engine warranty as part of their inventory, covering internal parts, heads, and intake manifolds for both domestic and foreign vehicles. However, specific details about warranty duration, extended options, or costs for general used parts at their Merrillville location are not explicitly mentioned in available materials.
Key Warranty Observations
- Engine-Specific Coverage
- Explicitly mentioned for used engines, including internal parts and manifolds
- No information provided for other parts (like transmissions or radiators)
- Merrillville Location Considerations
- The Merrillville site does not list scrap metal recycling services, but no details about warranty exclusions or variations
- Business hours and contact methods are provided but lack warranty-related specifics
For precise warranty terms (duration, cost, extended options), customers should contact Paul’s Auto Yard directly via phone (800–261–2789) or through an in-person visit. The company emphasizes “free delivery to local repair shops” and a large inventory, but warranty details for non-engine parts remain unspecified in public materials.
Entry Fees and Discounts
Based on available information from Paul’s Auto Yard’s official website and third-party platforms, there is no explicit mention of a cover fee for entering their Merrillville, IN location at 6530 Broadway. Key findings include:
Entry Fee Policy
- No search results reference a mandatory entry fee for customers accessing the Pick-A-Part lot
- The Merrillville location’s “Pick-A-Part Lot Closes at 4:30pm” note implies access is permitted during operating hours without specifying a charge
Discounts
- No specific discounts for general customers are listed in the provided materials
- Their focus is on offering competitive pricing for used auto parts
For confirmation about any potential entry fees or special discounts, customers should contact the Merrillville location directly via phone (219–785–2894), as salvage yards sometimes implement fees that aren’t advertised online.
Hours of Operation
Paul’s Auto Yard at 6530 Broadway, Merrillville, IN 46410 operates Monday through Saturday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with the Pick-A-Part lot closing at 4:30 PM daily. The location is closed on Sundays.
Weekend availability:
– Saturday: Open 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Pick-A-Part access until 4:30 PM)
– Sunday: Closed
This schedule aligns with the company’s standard hours across its 13 Indiana locations. Customers planning to visit on Saturday should arrive with enough time to find and pull parts before the 4:30 PM lot closure.
Tools and Equipment for Parts Removal
Paul’s Auto Yard at 6530 Broadway, Merrillville, IN 46410 does not provide tools for part removal, requiring customers to bring their own equipment. Here’s a breakdown of recommended tools based on the type of parts being extracted:
Universal Tools for General Use
- Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead)
- Pliers (needle-nose and slip-joint)
- Wrenches (adjustable, box-end, and open-end)
- Socket sets (standard and metric)
- Allen wrenches
- Wire cutters/strippers (for electrical/wiring tasks)
| Part Type | Recommended Tools |
|---|---|
| Engines/Transmissions | Hydraulic jacks, jack stands, engine hoist bars |
| Batteries | Terminal wrench, insulation pullers |
| Interior Parts | Dashboard pry tools, seat removal bolts |
| Suspension | Spring compressors, ball joint pullers |
| Brakes | Brake bleeding kits, rotor pullers |
| Wheels/Tires | Tire irons, wheel chocks |
Additional Recommendations
- Impact tools (cordless/air-powered) for stubborn bolts
- Safety gear: Gloves, goggles, and steel-toe boots
- Cart/dolly to transport heavy parts
For suspension parts or other specialized extractions, having the right tools can make the difference between a quick removal and a frustrating experience. Always check the yard’s open/close times, as the Merrillville Pick-A-Part lot closes at 4:30 PM.
Cash for Junk Cars Program
Paul’s Auto Yard at 6530 Broadway, Merrillville, IN 46410 does buy junk cars from the general public and offers cash-on-the-spot payouts, though scrap metal recycling isn’t available at this specific location.
Key Services and Policies
- Cash for Cars:
- They purchase vehicles in any condition, including non-running, wrecked, or late-model cars
- Towing is provided free of charge, with same-day estimates available via phone (800) 261–2789
- Payment is immediate upon vehicle inspection
- Acceptance Criteria:
- All vehicle types: Cars, trucks, SUVs, and other automobiles are accepted regardless of operational status
- Restrictions: This location does not handle scrap metal recycling
- Process:
- Customers can drive their vehicle to the location or arrange for free towing
- Estimates are provided in person or via same-day callbacks
For confirmation, contact the Merrillville location directly at (844) 226–7272 or visit their official page. This service provides a convenient way to get cash for your junk car without the hassle of private sales or complicated paperwork.
Other Junkyards in Merrillville
Nearby Junkyards Near Paul’s Auto Yard (6530 Broadway, Merrillville, IN 46410)
1. Shafer Pick A Part
Address: 6530 Broadway, Merrillville, IN 46410 (same address as Paul’s Auto Yard in some records).
Services:
– Used auto parts for DIY repairs
– Cash for junk cars, though specifics about towing or payment processes are unclear
Comparison: Operates similarly to Paul’s in offering used parts and junk car services, but lacks explicit details about warranties or decades of experience.
2. Archie’s Auto Parts
Address: 6530 Broadway, Merrillville, IN 46410 (same address as Paul’s in Yellow Pages listings).
Services:
– Used auto parts (domestic/foreign vehicles)
– Rebuildable vehicles for project-oriented buyers
Comparison: Focuses on project-ready vehicles, unlike Paul’s broader scrap recycling and cash-for-cars model. Also offers a 90-day warranty on parts, which Paul’s does not explicitly mention.
3. Wild Bill’s Auto Parts
Address: 4431 W Lincoln Hwy, Merrillville, IN (proximity to Paul’s location is unclear).
Services:
– Used auto parts and salvage services
Comparison: Less detailed information available; appears to specialize in similar core services to Paul’s but lacks large-scale operations.
Service Comparison Table
| Business | Key Features | Warranties | Cash for Cars | Unique Offerings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paul’s Auto Yard | 13 Indiana locations, 50+ years experience | N/A | Yes (tow included) | Free estimates, no scrap metal recycling at Merrillville |
| Shafer Pick A Part | DIY-friendly used parts | N/A | Yes | N/A |
| Archie’s Auto Parts | Rebuildable vehicles, 90-day warranties | Yes (90 days) | N/A (unclear) | Project-ready vehicles, 50k sq ft inventory |
Note: Conflicting address data (e.g., 6530 Broadway listed for both Paul’s and other businesses) suggests possible outdated or overlapping records. Verify addresses directly with businesses.
For more options, check out other Junkyards in Indiana that might have specific parts or services not available at the Merrillville locations.
Common Questions About Paul’s Auto Yard
Here are seven common questions about Paul’s Auto Yard and their answers, synthesized from available information about the Merrillville location:
1. What Services Does Paul’s Auto Yard Offer?
Paul’s Auto Yard primarily serves as a salvage yard and pick-and-pull facility offering used auto parts for cars and trucks, including engines, transmissions, body panels, and other parts. They specialize in self-service parts extraction with an “endless supply” of inventory across 13 Indiana locations. Additionally, they buy junk or scrap vehicles (running or not), paying “top dollar” while offering free towing. The Merrillville location (6530 Broadway) is one of their many sites.
2. What Are Their Business Hours?
The Merrillville location operates Monday through Saturday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with the Pick-A-Part lot closing at 4:30 PM daily. The location is closed on Sundays. The main contact number is (800) 261–2789 or (844) 226–7272.
3. How Is the Customer Service?
Reviews highlight mixed experiences:
– Positive: Friendly and knowledgeable staff, such as salesman Mike Knuth, praised for assistance and efficiency. Some describe a “fun and outgoing atmosphere” when assisting customers.
– Negative: Employee reviews criticize management, citing “no customer service skills” in some locations and a “rude” management style.
Quality may vary by location and staff.
4. What Parts Do They Typically Stock?
As a salvage yard, Paul’s Auto Yard offers a wide range of used auto parts, including:
– Major parts: Engines, transmissions, axles, and brake systems
– Body parts: Doors, hoods, bumpers, and interior parts
– Miscellaneous: Wheels, tires, electrical systems, and accessories
Their inventory is regularly replenished via purchased vehicles.
5. Do They Buy Cars?
Yes, Paul’s Auto Yard provides “cash for cars” services, purchasing:
– Junk/scrap vehicles: Towed away free of charge after payment
– Non-running vehicles: Evaluated based on metal weight and parts value
Competitive pricing is emphasized, though exact payment ranges aren’t disclosed.
6. What Is It Like to Work There?
Employee reviews reveal significant concerns:
– Negative: Frequent criticisms of “awful management,” “low pay,” no benefits/vacation, and high turnover. Some report working 6 days a week without overtime compensation.
– Positive: Colleagues often describe their peers as friendly and efficient, noting a “fun atmosphere” when management is absent.
Working conditions appear challenging, particularly in labor-intensive roles.
7. How Can I Contact Them?
For inquiries or services:
– Phone: Main: (800) 261–2789; Alternate: (844) 226–7272
– Fax: (219) 785–4792
– Online: Visit their website (paulsautosalvage.com) to submit a “Hero Request Form” or request a callback
Spanish-speaking service is available (indicated by “Se Habla Español”).
These answers reflect a combination of customer testimonials, employee feedback, and operational details from Paul’s Auto Yard’s own materials and third-party reviews.
At Paul’s Auto Yard in Merrillville, Indiana, you will find the perfect destination for all of your car part needs. Whether you’re looking for used auto parts or just need a junkyard to take scrap metal off your hands, Paul’s Auto Yard has it all! Located at 6530 Broadway in Merrillville, Paul’s Auto Yard is easy to access and offers the best in salvage yard services. With experienced professionals on site and knowledgeable sales staff, customers can rest assured knowing they are getting great quality products with exceptional customer service.
The yard features a wide range of cars from different makes and models with each vehicle having its own unique history. Along with these vehicles, Paul’s also offers an extensive selection of auto parts from tires to engines to body panels and more. Not only does Paul’s offer up great parts but they also offer up great prices as well; offering both used parts for great savings as well as new parts for those that want that extra assurance. Not only do they offer a variety of auto parts but they are also a certified scrap metal dealer, so you can trust that they have the know-how when it comes to dealing in scrap. If you are looking for reliable used auto parts store with unbeatable prices, then Paul’s Auto Yard should be your first stop on the road to quality car part shopping!
Real customer testimonials
Crystal Kautzman
They had exactly what we needed and the car was easy to find thanks to them listing the row it was located on. They might not have the spot number listed like some salvage yards but they make up for it in friendliness, better pricing and a little extra space between cars for easier access to the interior. They even have a portajohn for when nature calls while you are picking your parts. Totally worth the 2.5 hour drive for a hard to find part at a decent price.
King Pharaoh
Alot of nice cars that people recked that’s in here. Was able to find a few new parts for my vehicle. No matter what year I have if it’s a newer year same make & model I’m taking the parts, not letting new parts go to waste. Very great place to come shopping for parts for your vehicle. HIGHLY RECOMMEND.
Scott Gallagher
well, beggars can’t be chosers, right? don’t really have a choice, but do i like them?no. the first time for a back light was fast enough, but they want over a $100 this time, or so he said. he couldn’t get it to me friday, and so now he’s making me wait through all of friday’s orders and they’re closed on sunday, naturally. to think i’m doing this myself for midas….
Terry Driver
Great service very professional no delay in locating what I needed. Thanks guys, you’re the tops and my wife got a big kick out of going there so it’s wife firendly !!
Sh Fin
Been going here for at least 2 years. Recently the store was sold and boy have they literally SUCKED. Today a white guy went in and purchased a bumper for a 2015:Toyota Prius and he was charged $75 with taxes. My husband brought up a 2014 kia aka a foreign bumper and was told $250. $250 for a junkyard bumper that I had we had remove myself? Gtfoh. A freaking brand new aftermarket one is $250. My husband even said something about the price difference. He immediately left there and went to another junkyard and paid $55 for the same bumper. A kia is a car with plenty of parts available so $55-75 is standard price. Yeah I guess they are pricing based on ethnicity and not straightforward pricing. Paul’s.
