Paul's Auto Yard at 3300 S Main St, South Bend, IN 46614

My dad needed a rear taillight, and Paul’s had it for a fair price. But here’s the thing—they saw he was moving slow and just said, *"We’ll grab it for you."* No fuss, no extra charge. That’s the kind of thing that makes a difference. ---

I’m pissed. I’ve been going to Paul’s for years—bought a spare tire for my Impala back in May, and now I’m stuck on the side of the road because it doesn’t even fit. Wrong bolt pattern, just like that. I had to borrow my friend’s spare to get home, took the receipt back to Paul’s to swap it, and they refused because I bought it months ago. Now my friend’s without a spare, I’m broke three days before Christmas, and I’m out $30 for a tire I can’t use. Real classy, Paul’s. ---

Used to drive up from Michigan just for Paul’s because the prices were solid. Not anymore. The guy at checkout was nice, but then he told me the new owners marked up everything—$30 for an ashtray, $20 for a cup holder, $20 for a single sun visor. I walked out with half my cart because I can get the same stuff online for less. And that’s the problem: why pay double when you can order it cheaper and have it shipped? I get it—pulling parts yourself should save money, but not when Paul’s is charging LKQ prices. The employee seemed like a good guy, probably stuck dealing with people’s frustration when they see the totals. If you’re hunting for used parts, LKQ’s right down the road and half the cost. Too bad—Paul’s used to be a gem. ---

You’d think they’d just let you in to dig for parts, but no—first they grill you with questions. And if it’s raining? Forget it. The whole yard’s a muddy mess, ruts everywhere, cars and trucks scattered like a junkyard jigsaw puzzle. Chevys next to Dodges next to Fords, all just dumped on the ground. Had to climb over vehicles in some spots, and not a single cart in sight. No price tags either, and for some reason, the same part costs different amounts depending on who you ask. No way to tell if engines or transmissions are even worth looking at. Other Paul’s locations? At least you know what you’re paying. Here, it’s a gamble. LKQ’s got their cars up on stands, organized, and yeah, they charge for everything—but at least you’re not guessing. Bring boots if it’s wet out.

My husband and I hit up this place all the time for parts or to drop off scrap metal. Never had a single bad experience. The crew’s always friendly, prices are fair, and it’s worth the trip. Simple as that. ---