Profile
City Auto Wreckers: Aurora’s Premier Auto Salvage Yard for Cash & Quality Parts
Located at 690 McClure Rd, Aurora, IL 60502, City Auto Wreckers has been a trusted family-owned salvage yard since 1981, offering high-quality used auto parts and reliable junk car buying services to Aurora and the greater Chicago area. With over three decades of experience, this full-service yard provides affordable OEM used parts for both foreign and domestic vehicles.
Establishment and Family-Owned History
City Auto Wreckers stands as one of Aurora’s longest-running auto salvage businesses, maintaining a family-owned operation for over 40 years. Established in 1981, the business has built a solid reputation in the Chicagoland area, focusing on quality parts, customer service, and environmental sustainability.
While specific founder names remain private, the company has maintained consistent family management throughout its history. With approximately 9 employees and substantial revenue figures, City Auto Wreckers has proven their staying power in the competitive salvage yards in Illinois marketplace.
Their A+ Better Business Bureau rating (though non-accredited) reflects their commitment to ethical business practices and customer satisfaction across their multi-decade history in Aurora.
Services Offered: Full-Service Wrecking Yard
| Service Type | Description | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Used Auto Parts Sales | OEM used parts for foreign & domestic vehicles with online search tool | Cost savings up to 50–70% over new parts, with professional assistance |
| Cash for Junk Cars | Purchases nonworking, broken, and flood-damaged vehicles | Free towing, immediate cash payment, no-hassle pickup |
| Automotive Recycling | Environmentally responsible vehicle disposal and part harvesting | Proper fluid disposal, metal recycling, and hazardous material handling |
| Part Location Assistance | Computerized inventory search system with knowledgeable staff | Help finding exact parts when not in current inventory |
| Warranty Services | Protected purchases with specific warranties on major parts | Peace of mind with 60-day claim period for engines and transmissions |
Unlike self-service yards where customers search and remove parts themselves, City Auto Wreckers operates as a full-service salvage yard. Their team handles part location and removal, ensuring customers receive exactly what they need without the dirty work.
Their computerized inventory system helps track available parts across their 15-acre property, while their “If We Don’t Have It, We’ll Find It” policy demonstrates their commitment to customer satisfaction. The yard specializes in buying junk cars through their Cash for Cars program which includes free towing services, making disposal easy and profitable for sellers.
For those looking to save big on major car repairs, City Auto Wreckers provides an affordable alternative to expensive dealership parts while maintaining quality and reliability.
Vehicle Types and Inventory
City Auto Wreckers maintains a diverse inventory of both foreign and domestic vehicles with a special focus on late-model cars. Their Gold Seal certification from the Automotive Recyclers Association ensures quality standards are maintained across their parts inventory.
While specific makes and models aren’t publicly listed, their computerized inventory system tracks a wide range of vehicles. Their expansive 15-acre yard houses numerous salvage vehicles, from which they extract:
- Engines and transmissions (with specific warranties)
- Body panels including doors, hoods, and bumpers
- Drivetrain parts such as differentials and axles
- Electrical parts like alternators and starters
- Glass components including windshields and windows
Their emphasis on late-model vehicles means customers can often find parts for relatively recent cars, though availability varies based on current inventory. For those looking to find affordable used car headlights or other specific parts, their online search tool provides a convenient way to check availability before visiting.
Popular Auto Parts: What People Buy Most
The most frequently purchased items at City Auto Wreckers reflect the typical demand pattern at quality salvage yards. These parts represent the best value for money when purchased used:
1. Engines and Transmissions
These major parts offer the biggest savings, with used engines and transmissions costing significantly less than new or remanufactured options. City Auto Wreckers tests these critical parts to ensure functionality.
2. Body Panels
Doors, hoods, bumpers, and fenders are popular for collision repairs. These used car fenders and other body parts can save hundreds on repair costs while providing OEM fit and finish.
3. Glass Components
Windshields and window glass rank high on the purchase list. Buying a used car window from a salvage yard saves substantial money compared to new glass installation.
4. Tires and Wheels
Used tires with good tread and alloy wheels offer tremendous savings. City Auto Wreckers stocks various deals on used tires and wheels for budget-conscious buyers.
5. Electrical Components
Starters, alternators, and batteries remain popular purchases. These parts often retain plenty of useful life when salvaged from otherwise damaged vehicles.
6. Radiators and Cooling Systems
These durable parts are frequently salvaged. Finding a used car radiator can save significant money on cooling system repairs.
7. Drivetrain Parts
Clutches, differential assemblies, and axles round out the most common purchases, especially for older vehicles where new parts may be expensive or difficult to source.
While City Auto Wreckers doesn’t publicly list specific prices online, they’re known for competitive rates on all these popular parts categories.
Pricing: Competitive Rates Without Published Lists
City Auto Wreckers does not publish a standardized price list online or in marketing materials. Instead, they employ a personalized pricing approach based on:
- Part availability and condition
- Vehicle make, model, and year
- Current market demand
- Competitive local rates
For the most accurate pricing, customers should contact City Auto Wreckers directly at (630) 898–2900 or use their online part lookup tool to inquire about specific parts. Their emphasis on “competitive, affordable pricing” appears consistently in their marketing, and customer testimonials suggest reasonable rates compared to other Chicago-area yards.
When selling junk cars, they offer cash payments on the spot with free towing included, making their buy-sell model attractive to those looking to get cash for a junk car that’s no longer running.
Service Area: Aurora and Beyond
| Region | Cities Served |
|---|---|
| Primary Service Areas | |
| Major Cities | Aurora, Elgin, Naperville, Joliet, Chicago |
| Nearby Suburbs | |
| Northern Suburbs | North Aurora, Saint Charles, Geneva, Batavia |
| Western Suburbs | Montgomery, Sugar Grove, Yorkville |
| Southern Suburbs | Oswego, Boulder Hill |
City Auto Wreckers serves a broad geographic area centered around Aurora, Illinois. Their primary service regions include major cities like Elgin, Naperville, Joliet, and Chicago, while also covering numerous nearby suburbs.
The salvage yard is strategically located to serve both the immediate Aurora area and surrounding communities. Customers from suburbs like North Aurora, Montgomery, Boulder Hill, and Oswego frequently visit for parts, while the yard’s “If We Don’t Have It, We’ll Find It” policy ensures they can source parts from their network even when not immediately available on-site.
Their junk car buying program extends throughout these service areas, with free towing provided for vehicles they purchase. This accessibility has helped build their reputation throughout the western Chicago suburbs.
Parts Interchange System and Compatibility
City Auto Wreckers implements a structured approach to helping customers find compatible parts through a combination of technology and expertise:
1. Computerized Part Search System
The yard utilizes a user-friendly online auto parts search tool and a computerized inventory system to quickly locate parts across their 15-acre salvage yard. While not explicitly described as an interchange database, their system likely cross-references basic compatibility.
2. “If We Don’t Have It, We’ll Find It” Policy
When specific parts aren’t in their immediate inventory, staff proactively search external networks or other salvage yards to locate compatible alternatives. This approach demonstrates their commitment to sourcing parts even when direct matches aren’t present.
3. Expert Staff Assistance
The Aurora facility employs experienced team members who guide customers in identifying parts and potential cross-platform compatibility. Their knowledge helps bridge gaps when automated tools may fall short.
Unlike some competitors that explicitly market automated interchange databases, City Auto Wreckers blends technology with human expertise. This personalized approach distinguishes them in the market and creates loyalty among customers who appreciate the guidance when searching for hard-to-find parts.
Warranty Information: Protection for Major Purchases
City Auto Wreckers provides warranty coverage for their used auto parts with specific conditions tailored to different part categories:
Standard Warranty Coverage
- Engines:
- Protected against cracked cylinder blocks/heads, bad cam/crankshafts, excessive smoking, and operational failures
- Requires new oil/filter installation and a tune-up (plugs, wires, etc.) post-installation
- Transmissions:
- Guaranteed against slippage or shifting defects
- General Requirements:
- Claims must be submitted within 60 days of purchase
- Warranty void if heat tabs are removed/melted or improper cooling/oil maintenance occurs
- Repairs/inspections must be done by City Auto Wreckers or authorized shops
Warranty Restrictions
The warranty explicitly excludes:
– Attachments/accessories (water pumps, fuel pumps, distributors)
– Rear main seals on engines
– Failures due to improper maintenance
While extended warranty options may be available for “longer-term coverage” beyond standard protections, specific terms and costs aren’t publicly listed. Customers should contact City Auto Wreckers directly for customization options and pricing.
Entry Fee and Hours of Operation
City Auto Wreckers does not charge an entrance fee to visit their facility. Unlike some self-service salvage yards that require cover charges, this full-service yard focuses on parts sales rather than charging for access.
Business Hours:
– Monday through Friday: 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM
– Weekends: CLOSED
These weekday-only hours have been confirmed through multiple sources including their official website. While one directory listing suggested Saturday hours, the company’s own materials consistently indicate weekend closure. For the most current schedule, customers should contact the yard directly at (630) 898–2900.
Tools and Equipment for Part Removal
When visiting City Auto Wreckers, it’s important to understand their full-service model. Unlike self-service junkyards, City Auto Wreckers does not expect customers to remove parts themselves. Their staff handles the part identification, removal, and preparation for you.
However, if you’re planning to buy parts and install them yourself, these tools will be useful for your home repairs:
Essential Tools for DIY Installation
- Socket set & ratchet: Metric/standard sizes based on vehicle type
- Rubber mallet/hammer: For gentle persuasion of tight-fitting parts
- Penetrating oil: To loosen rusted fasteners before removal
- Pry bars & locking pliers: Helpful for manipulating parts during installation
When working with specific auto systems, specialized tools become necessary:
| Part Type | Recommended Tools |
|---|---|
| Rusted/Seized Parts | Penetrating oil, breaker bar, heat gun |
| Interior Parts | Trim removal tools, screwdrivers, utility knife |
| Brake System | Wheel chocks, caliper tools, compressed air |
| Small Fasteners | Organization containers, needle-nose pliers |
For safety during any automotive work, always have gloves, safety glasses, and a flashlight available. These basics help prevent injuries during parts installation and repair work.
Cash for Junk Cars: Selling Your Vehicle
City Auto Wreckers offers a robust Cash for Cars program that purchases vehicles in virtually any condition. This service provides a convenient solution for disposing of unwanted vehicles while earning money.
Key Program Features
- All Conditions Accepted: They purchase nonworking, broken-down, flood-damaged, and accident vehicles
- Free Towing: Vehicle removal is included at no cost, eliminating transportation hassles
- Immediate Payment: Cash provided on-site during pickup
- Environmental Compliance: Proper handling of all automotive fluids and recyclable materials
Selling Process
- Get a Quote: Contact them directly at (630) 898–1610 to receive an offer
- Schedule Pickup: Arrange a convenient time for free towing
- Receive Payment: Get paid cash on the spot when they collect the vehicle
Their program serves Aurora and surrounding areas including Naperville, Geneva, and the broader Chicago region. As a business operating since 1981, City Auto Wreckers emphasizes professional, eco-friendly practices in their automotive recycling operations.
For those looking to sell a junk car quickly, their straightforward process makes it easy to convert an unused or damaged vehicle into immediate cash.
Common Questions About City Auto Wreckers
1. What services does City Auto Wreckers provide?
City Auto Wreckers offers used auto parts, vehicle recycling, and junk car purchasing with free towing. They operate as a certified Gold Seal parts provider, ensuring quality standards. Their full-service approach includes:
– Used auto parts for foreign and domestic vehicles through their online search tool
– Junk car removal with free towing and cash payments
– Salvage and recycling services focusing on environmentally responsible practices
2. How can I sell my junk car to them?
To sell a vehicle to City Auto Wreckers:
– Contact them at (630) 898–2900 to start the process
– They buy late-model vehicles and may accept cars without titles in some cases
– Free towing is provided, with immediate cash payment upon pickup
Their “Cash for Cars” program streamlines the transaction with competitive offers and simple paperwork.
3. What types of auto parts are available?
The yard stocks extensive used auto parts including:
– Certified OEM parts (Gold Seal certified)
– Domestic and foreign vehicle parts from their large inventory
– Specialty parts for restorations, searchable through their online lookup tool
4. What payment methods do they accept?
For purchasing parts, City Auto Wreckers accepts credit and debit cards. When selling a vehicle, they provide cash payments on the spot.
5. What are their operating hours?
The facility operates Monday to Friday from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM and is closed on weekends. Calling ahead is recommended to confirm part availability.
6. Do they offer self-service part removal?
Unlike some Aurora junkyards, City Auto Wreckers does not provide self-service removal. Instead, their trained staff assists customers in locating and retrieving parts. Their online tool streamlines part searches, reducing the need for physical browsing.
7. How do customers perceive their customer service?
Reviews show mixed experiences:
– Positive feedback highlights their dedicated staff (with specific mentions of employees who went above and beyond)
– Some criticism notes long wait times during busy periods
The business emphasizes knowledgeable assistance, though consistency varies based on customer reports.
City Auto Wreckers is a comprehensive auto service center located in Aurora, IL at 690 McClure Rd. They specialize in providing top-notch car parts and services to their customers. At City Auto Wreckers, you can find all kinds of car parts, from engines to transmissions, brakes and suspension, body panels, tires and more. The store also contains a wide range of junkyard and salvage yard supplies that you can use to get your vehicle back on the road quickly and safely.
In addition to selling quality car parts, City Auto Wreckers is also an established scrap metal dealer. They provide recycling services for ferrous and non-ferrous metals, including copper, aluminum, steel, brass and more. And if you’re looking for hard-to-find used auto parts or custom fabrications for your project car or truck, City Auto Wreckers has it all covered as well.
The team at City Auto Wreckers is highly knowledgeable about all makes and models of vehicles. They strive to ensure that each customer gets the highest quality automotive parts and services at competitive prices. With their years of experience in the business they are committed to providing solutions that meet each individual customer’s needs.
When it comes to finding the right part for your vehicle, no matter what make or model you have, City Auto Wreckers should be your first stop shop! Visit them today at 690 McClure Rd in Aurora IL or give them a call for more information about their products and services!
Real customer testimonials
Mitzzzeee eee
So funny how they are good at taking your money but if I need to return something? Forget it. They go from Mr Hyde to Dr jekyll in no time. Very unprofessional and that is why I will no longer buy parts from there or do any type of business. Or advise anyone to buy from there.
Jasmine Florence
City Auto Wreckers gave the best price for our vehicles. The people we spoke to on the phone were polite. Chad from City Auto Wreckers towed two of our cars within two weeks. He quickly got the jobs done and was very polite and considerate both times.
nightmare Bonnie costello
Great place for everyone is super helpful and friendly picked up a epic used tire Yokohama size 15 for 23 bucks
Jeff Norris
Hey, I wanted to get rid of 2 cars that have been sitting here doing unable to run. I called City Auto Wreckers, Jim answered my call. He took my information and gave me an offer, he was honest professional and understanding. He took my cars with out titles, the whole process was incredibly simple. If I remember the drivers name it was Eric and he was almost as cool as Jim, what can I say Jim was the bomb. Thanks guys, it’s nice working with people who get the job done, and do what they say! I would use them again, and again.
Randal Birkey
I had a very poor first experience with this company. When I could not find the part I was looking for on their website on December 20, 2017, I called them and was connected to a saleswoman. She explained that for parts that they do not have listed online, they open the yard on Saturdays for customers to search for the part on junk vehicles. She told me I could come on on Saturday (DEC 23rd) between 8:30 AM and 12:30 PM to look for the part I needed. I thanked her and said I would be in.
On Saturday the 23rd, I prepared the tools I would need, dressed in layers and work clothes for the cold weather, and drove 20 min. to their location. I found an empty parking lot and an 8.5 x 11 paper posted on the door saying they were closed for the holidays.
All they had to do to avoid this was let me know they would be closed, or to update their website and Google Map listing so that when I searched to find directions, I would have been notified they were closed. Instead they needlessly wasted 1.5 hours of my time, and created an experience that detracts from their brand and reputation.
In this digital 21st century, I don’t see how businesses can survive by treating customers and prospects this way. All I know if that if I treated my customers this way, I would not stay in business very long.
