Bama Salvage: Cottondale, AL’s Premier Auto Salvage Yard

A Complete Guide to Bama Salvage’s Services and Inventory

Located at 9200 University Blvd E in Cottondale, Alabama, Bama Salvage has been a trusted name in the automotive recycling industry since 2007. This 10-acre facility specializes in providing affordable used auto parts for both domestic and foreign vehicles, offering customers a cost-effective alternative to buying new parts. Whether you’re looking for an engine, transmission, body panel, or electrical parts, Bama Salvage’s extensive inventory and dedicated service make it a go-to destination for auto enthusiasts and budget-conscious car owners in Tuscaloosa County and beyond.

Establishment and Services

History and Development

Established in 2007, Bama Salvage has spent over 16 years building a reputation as a reliable source of quality used auto parts in the Cottondale area. While specific details about the founders and current ownership aren’t publicly available, the business has demonstrated staying power in an industry where longevity speaks to reliability and customer satisfaction.

The salvage yard’s 10-acre facility houses a vast inventory of vehicles, providing ample space for parts storage and customer browsing. Like many successful junkyards in Alabama, Bama Salvage’s multi-decade presence indicates a steady demand for affordable auto parts and vehicle recycling services in the region.

Services Offered

Bama Salvage operates primarily as a full-service junkyard, where staff assists with finding and removing parts. Unlike self-service yards where customers pull their own parts, Bama’s approach focuses on providing direct assistance and expertise to help customers find exactly what they need.

The business also emphasizes its free towing service for vehicle purchases, making it convenient for those looking to sell old, damaged, or unwanted vehicles. Combined with same-day pickup options, this creates a hassle-free experience for sellers.

Vehicle Types and Popular Parts

Inventory and Specialization

Bama Salvage’s sprawling 10-acre facility houses a diverse range of domestic and foreign vehicles, offering parts from numerous makes and models. Their inventory includes both cars and trucks, with a special focus on domestic auto parts.

While the yard primarily stocks used parts, they maintain connections with dealerships through their affiliated BAMA Auto Auction, potentially providing access to newer models. These partnerships with businesses like Woody Anderson Ford and Sunny King Toyota help expand their offerings beyond what’s available in their physical yard.

The salvage yard also regularly purchases damaged or unwanted vehicles, which helps maintain a fresh rotation of parts inventory. This approach ensures customers have access to parts for both older models and relatively recent vehicles.

Most Commonly Purchased Parts

The salvage yard’s most sought-after used auto parts include:

1. Engines and drivetrain parts – Complete engines, transmissions, and differentials are frequently purchased due to their high replacement cost when bought new. These major parts often represent significant savings compared to dealership prices. When looking for used engine blocks, many customers turn to salvage yards like Bama to save hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
2. Body panels – Doors, hoods, trunks, and quarter panels are popular items for those performing collision repairs on a budget. These exterior parts can be costly from dealerships but are typically available at a fraction of the price at salvage yards.
3. Exterior trim and lights – Front and rear bumpers, headlight assemblies, taillights, and fog lights are frequently purchased at Bama Salvage. These used headlights and lighting parts are especially valuable for older vehicles where new parts might be discontinued.
4. Mirrors and glass – Side mirrors, rearview mirrors, and window glass are popular due to their high replacement cost at dealerships. Finding used side mirrors at salvage yards can save car owners significant money while still getting OEM parts.
5. Electrical parts – Alternators, starters, and wiring harnesses are frequently sought after for cost-effective repairs. These parts, when purchased used, often provide substantial savings while maintaining reliability.
6. Wheels and tires – Used wheels and tires are popular for temporary fixes or budget-conscious replacements. Many customers find great deals on tires and wheels that have plenty of life left in them.
7. Suspension parts – Control arms, struts, and other suspension parts are commonly pulled from salvage vehicles, offering significant savings compared to new parts while maintaining OEM specifications.

Pricing and Warranty Information

Auto Parts Pricing

While Bama Salvage doesn’t publish a specific price list online, their pricing structure likely follows industry standards based on part condition, rarity, and demand. The yard specializes in providing affordable alternatives to new dealer parts, with substantial discounts off retail prices.

Customer reviews mention varying experiences with pricing, suggesting that costs may depend on specific parts and their condition. For current pricing, customers are advised to contact Bama Salvage directly at 205–553–9344 or visit in person during business hours.

Warranty Coverage

Bama Salvage backs all parts with a standard warranty and return policy, providing customers with peace of mind. While specific warranty terms aren’t explicitly outlined in available information, the industry standard for professional salvage yards typically includes a minimum 90-day warranty for major parts like engines and transmissions.

The warranty coverage helps ensure customer satisfaction and builds trust in the parts purchased. For precise warranty terms and any extended warranty options, customers should inquire directly when making a purchase.

Entry Fee and Operational Details

Entry and Discounts

Based on available information, Bama Salvage doesn’t explicitly mention an entry fee for browsing their inventory. However, some professional salvage yards charge a small fee for entry, which might be refundable with purchase.

For the most accurate information about potential entry fees or special discounts, customers are encouraged to call the yard directly before visiting.

Hours of Operation

Bama Salvage maintains consistent hours throughout the week:

– Monday–Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

– Saturday: 8:30 AM – 1:00 PM

– Sunday: Closed

The weekend availability on Saturdays makes the yard accessible to those who work weekdays, though with reduced hours compared to weekdays. Make sure to plan Saturday visits for the morning hours to ensure enough time to find what you need.

Tools and Equipment for Parts Removal

When visiting Bama Salvage, it’s essential to bring the right tools if you plan to remove parts yourself. While the yard likely provides basic equipment like carts or dollies for transporting parts, customers must bring their own tools for disassembly.

Essential Tools to Bring

1. Socket Set & Ratchet Wrenches: For bolts of various sizes (metric/SAE)
2. Screwdrivers (Flathead/Phillips/Torx): For panels, covers, and electrical parts
3. Pry Bar: To remove stuck panels or trim without damage
4. Pliers (Needle-Nose/Adjustable): For gripping small pins, clips, or hoses
5. Wrenches (Standard/Adjustable): For bolts inaccessible to sockets
6. Breaker Bar: Extra leverage for stubborn bolts
7. Hammer (Rubber/Metal): For tapping parts loose or breaking rusted parts
8. Cutting Tools (Utility Knife/Wire Cutters): For hoses, wires, or seals
9. Penetrating Oil (WD–40): Loosens rusted fasteners
10. Safety Gear: Gloves, safety glasses, and a flashlight for visibility

Bonus Tips

• Hydration & Sun Protection: Bring water and sunscreen for outdoor work
• Organization: Use plastic bags and markers to label removed parts
• Research: Check repair videos beforehand to identify needed tools

Always contact Bama Salvage ahead of time to confirm any restrictions on tools or special requirements for removing specific parts.

Cash for Junk Cars

Bama Salvage actively purchases damaged and unwanted vehicles from the public, as stated on their website. They specialize in buying cars in various conditions, from minor damage to complete non-running vehicles.

The salvage yard offers free towing services for acquired vehicles, making it convenient for sellers who can’t transport their cars. While the specific payment method isn’t explicitly detailed in the available information, industry standard practices suggest cash payments are likely offered.

For those looking to sell a junk car, Bama Salvage’s large 10-acre facility and focus on used parts suggest they’re well-equipped to process vehicles and extract value from them. This makes them a viable option for anyone looking to get cash for their junk car rather than letting it rust away.

For definitive details on payment terms and vehicle value assessment, contacting Bama Salvage directly at 205–553–9344 is recommended.

Service Area

Bama Salvage in Cottondale, AL, serves customers from numerous surrounding communities. The primary cities and towns in their service area include:

• Tuscaloosa
• Northport
• Hueytown
• Bessemer
• Birmingham
• Moundville

These locations represent the core market for Bama Salvage, with customers traveling from across this region to access their inventory of used auto parts. The yard’s strategic location on University Boulevard East makes it accessible to both local residents and those traveling from neighboring cities.

Auto Parts Interchange System

Bama Salvage facilitates parts compatibility through a combination of online inventory search and nationwide parts locating services. This system allows customers to find compatible parts even when the exact match isn’t available in their local inventory.

The salvage yard’s approach likely aligns with industry standards such as the Automotive Recycling Association (ARA) Used Part Guide, which standardizes part descriptions to promote compatibility across different vehicle makes and models.

Through their interchange system, customers can identify parts from different vehicles that will work with their specific make and model. This expands options beyond the exact match, offering more opportunities to find the needed part at a reasonable price.

Bama Salvage’s nationwide locating service further enhances this capability, allowing them to source compatible parts from other locations when necessary. Combined with their warranty-backed parts and return policy, this creates a reliable system for finding interchange parts.

News and Notable Mentions

Bama Salvage has been mentioned in news articles related to traffic incidents near its location:

1. Fatal Head-On Collision (September 2021)

   A head-on collision occurred on University Boulevard East near Bama Salvage, resulting in two fatalities. The crash involved a white sedan and a pickup truck, with the road closed between Bama Salvage and Bee Branch Road during the investigation.

2. Major Crash on Highway 11 (April 2021)

   A significant accident closed Highway 11 near Bama Salvage, approximately half a mile from the I–20/59 interchange. The incident was reported by local traffic authorities.

These news mentions relate to the location rather than the business operations directly, serving primarily as geographic reference points in local traffic reporting.

Other Junkyards in Cottondale

Nearby Salvage Yards and Comparison

Other Junkyards Near Bama Salvage:

– 2601 Buttermilk Rd, Cottondale, AL 35453

Located in the same ZIP code (35453) as Bama Salvage, this facility is listed as another auto salvage yard in Cottondale. However, limited details are available about its specific services and inventory.

Comparison to Bama Salvage:

Bama Salvage stands out for its long-standing operation (since 2007), diverse inventory across a 10-acre facility, and additional services like nationwide shipping and free towing. The 2601 Buttermilk Rd location lacks comparable public information, suggesting it may be a smaller or less specialized operation.

Bama Salvage’s established presence in the Cottondale area, combined with its comprehensive service offerings, positions it as a prominent option among local salvage yards. Its mix of customer reviews indicates varying experiences with pricing and service, which is typical in the automotive recycling industry.

Common Questions About Bama Salvage

1. What services does Bama Salvage offer?

Bama Salvage provides used auto parts for both domestic and foreign vehicles, including engines, transmissions, body panels, bumpers, lights, mirrors, electrical parts, tires, and wheels. They also specialize in nationwide parts locating and shipping, ensuring customers can access parts even if not in stock locally. Additionally, they offer free towing services and same-day vehicle pickupfor junk car buyers, with over 30 years of industry experience. The business also purchases damaged or unwanted vehicles and provides a 10-acre inventory of vehicles for part extraction.

2. Do they offer warranties or return policies on parts?

Yes, Bama Salvage backs their parts with a warranty and return policy, though specific terms are not detailed in available records. This suggests customers have some protection against defective parts, aligning with standard industry practices for used automotive parts.

3. How do they handle vehicle purchases and towing?

The business purchases damaged or unwanted vehicles, offering free towing services to facilitate pickup. Their same-day pickup option ensures quick transactions, though one customer reported delays in vehicle retrieval, suggesting occasional logistical challenges.

4. What is the inventory size and specialization?

Bama Salvage operates on a 10-acre lot with a large inventory of vehicles, focusing primarily on domestic used auto parts. While they also cater to foreign vehicles, their specialization in domestic parts may indicate a stronger selection for American-made cars and trucks.

5. Are their prices competitive?

Customer reviews indicate mixed experiences with pricing. Some praise their “reasonable prices,” while others criticize higher costs for certain parts. This variability suggests pricing may depend on part condition and market rates, with potential room for negotiation in some cases.

6. How is their customer service perceived?

Reviews highlight varied experiences: one customer commended their “excellent service” and helpful staff, while another reported uncooperative pricing. This inconsistency suggests service quality may vary based on staff interactions or specific transactions.

7. What are their business hours and location?

Bama Salvage is located at 9200 University Blvd E, Cottondale, AL 35453, operating Monday–Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM and Saturday from 8:30 AM to 1:00 PM. They are closed on Sundays, which is typical for salvage yards to allow weekend recovery time.

Bama Salvage in Cottondale, Alabama, represents a valuable resource for automotive enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, and budget-conscious car owners throughout the Tuscaloosa area. Established in 2007, this full-service salvage yard offers a comprehensive range of used auto parts for both domestic and foreign vehicles across its expansive 10-acre facility.

The yard’s diverse inventory includes engines, transmissions, body panels, electrical parts, and more, providing affordable alternatives to new dealer parts. Their services extend beyond parts sales to include vehicle purchasing with free towing, nationwide parts locating, and used car sales.

Whether you’re restoring a classic car, repairing collision damage, or looking to save money on routine maintenance, Bama Salvage offers the parts, expertise, and services to help get your vehicle back on the road without breaking the bank.

For specific parts inquiries, current pricing, or to sell a vehicle, customers can contact Bama Salvage directly at 205–553–9344 or visit during their regular business hours.

Bama Salvage is located at 9200 University Blvd E, Cottondale, AL 35453, and provides customers with a wide array of car parts, including new and used options. The junkyard has become well known in the local area for its extensive selection of quality components, as well as its reliable services. Bama Salvage offers more than just car parts; they also provide scrap metal recycling services and used auto parts to their customers.

The experienced staff at Bama Salvage always puts customer service first. They go above and beyond to make sure that all customers receive the right part for their vehicle in a timely manner. Customers can trust that any part purchased from Bama Salvage will be top notch quality and fit perfectly. Furthermore, the salvage yard prides itself on providing competitive prices on all parts and services.

For those looking for more eco-friendly options, Bama Salvage also sells remanufactured auto parts. Remanufactured parts are recycled from used components and are then returned to factory-level performance standards through rigorous testing processes before being put back into circulation. Not only is this a great way to help reduce waste in our environment, but it’s also more cost effective than buying brand new parts.

Whether you’re looking for new or used components, scrap metal recycling services or remanufactured auto parts – Bama Salvage has you covered! With competitive prices and an excellent team of experts ready to assist – you can trust them with all your automotive needs!

Real customer testimonials

Leonard Chatham

Rated this company 4/5

Thank you fellas for all your Hard work you put in to this I got one know what half’s too go in to A place like that establishment THERE & it is not easy lots of Hard work,& patience with all you have to deal with.May GOD ALMIGHTY Bless you all much in life and your Family’s I thank you fellas for always helping me out.

David Vandenberg

Rated this company 4/5

They had what I needed for the car at that point in time which was fast prices were good

Bradley Smith

Rated this company 1/5

Won’t ever be going back here. Way over priced. They literally told me they wanted $800 for a car door. The yard is so messy and unorganized. Not to mention the guys behind the counter are rude as can be. I’ll just stick to pull a part where everything has a set price and you can check it before you even go to the place.

Johnathan Moore

Rated this company 3/5

Said they had the part then I have to order it anyways

Wil Bowman

Rated this company 5/5

Old school pull-a-part style salvage yard. Friendly and helpful front desk.