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Cornell’s Used Auto Parts: Greenfield Center, NY’s Premier Salvage Yard

Since 2000, Cornell’s Used Auto Parts has been serving Greenfield Center and the surrounding Saratoga County region with quality used auto parts and exceptional customer service. This family-owned salvage yard offers a massive inventory of vehicles and parts, professional service, and environmental sustainability practices that have made it a trusted name in the automotive recycling industry.

History & Ownership

Cornell’s Used Auto Parts began as an extension of a broader automotive business dating back to 1972, when Duane Cornell founded an auto-mechanic shop in a family-owned barn. After working with local mechanic Vin Smero, Duane established the business that would evolve over decades to include a garage, towing service, body shop, and eventually the used auto parts division in 2000.

The business is now a second-generation family-owned operation, with Casey Cornell (Duane’s son) taking over as owner in 2003 following his father’s illness. Under Casey’s leadership, the facility has expanded its inventory and maintained its commitment to quality service and environmental practices.

Services & Specialties

Cornell’s Used Auto Parts offers a comprehensive range of automotive salvage services designed to meet the needs of both individual car owners and repair shops throughout the Saratoga region.

Service	Description
Used Auto Parts Sales	Extensive inventory of approximately 80,000 parts from 1,200–1,500 vehicles
Parts Warranty	Standard 6-month warranty with extended options available
Shipping Options	Same-day shipping and next-day delivery via UPS and freight services
Online Inventory Search	Digital catalog allowing customers to search and view actual parts before ordering
Vehicle Recycling	Environmentally-conscious auto salvage and recycling practices
Network Access	Part of PRP-NE network providing access to over 1 million parts

Unlike self-service junkyards where customers pull their own parts, Cornell’s operates as a full-service facility. Their experienced sales team assists customers in finding the exact parts needed, ensuring proper vehicle compatibility, and offering professional advice.

Vehicle Types & Inventory

Cornell’s maintains a diverse inventory that includes all makes and models, with a particular focus on late-model vehicles. Their selection spans:

Domestic and import trucks

Pickups

Vans

SUVs/crossovers

Drive train parts

Interior/exterior body parts

With 1,200–1,500 vehicles on-site and access to over 1 million parts through their Team PRP-NE network partnership, Cornell’s can source parts for virtually any vehicle need. Their inventory focuses on quality used parts that offer significant savings compared to new OEM parts.

Most Popular Auto Parts

When shopping at Cornell’s Used Auto Parts, customers frequently purchase certain parts that offer substantial savings compared to new replacements. Understanding which parts provide the best value can help you maximize your visit to this Greenfield Center salvage yard.

Top-Selling Auto Parts at Cornell’s:

Engines and Transmissions

Complete engines for major repairs or rebuilds

Transmissions for both automatic and manual vehicles

Significant savings compared to new or remanufactured options

Body Panels and Bumpers

Hoods, doors, and fenders for collision repairs

Bumpers for both aesthetic and structural restoration

Find a used car hood for sale at local junkyards for substantial savings

Suspension Parts

Struts, shocks, and control arms for ride quality

Get OEM used suspension parts at salvage yard to ensure proper fit and function

Drive Train Parts

Differentials, axles, and drive shafts

Particularly popular for trucks and SUVs

Interior/Exterior Accessories

Seats, dashboards, and trim pieces

Hard-to-find items for older models

These parts are particularly cost-effective when purchased used, often saving customers 30–50% compared to new OEM parts while maintaining quality and reliability.

Warranty Information

Cornell’s Used Auto Parts stands behind their products with comprehensive warranty coverage:

Standard Warranty

– Duration: 6 months

– Coverage: Applies to all parts sold

Extended Warranties

– Available options for longer coverage

– Requires consultation with sales associates for specifics

For the most accurate and up-to-date warranty information, customers should contact Cornell’s sales team directly. No entry fee is required to visit the facility, making it accessible for customers to browse their inventory in person.

Tools Needed for Parts Removal

While Cornell’s operates primarily as a full-service yard, customers looking to save money on their auto repairs might be interested in knowing what tools they’ll need when working with their purchased parts.

Essential Tools For Working With Used Auto Parts:

Hand Tools

– Socket set and ratchet wrenches (metric and standard sizes)

– Screwdrivers (flathead, Phillips, Torx)

– Pry bar for removing stuck panels or trim

– Pliers (needle-nose and adjustable) for gripping small parts

– Wrenches (standard, adjustable, and breaker bar for stubborn bolts)

– Hammer (rubber mallet for gentle tapping, metal hammer for force)

– Cutting tools (utility knife, wire cutters)

Power Tools

– Cordless Sawzall or reciprocating saw for cutting through metal

– Impact wrench (½“ or ⅜”) for high-torque bolts

Safety & Extras

– Work gloves and safety glasses

– Penetrating oil (e.g., WD–40) for rusted fasteners

– Flashlight/headlamp for visibility

– Plastic bags and markers to organize small parts

The specific tools needed will vary depending on the type of part you’re working with:

– Engine/Transmission: Breaker bar, impact wrench, socket set

– Suspension/Steering: Pry bar, adjustable wrench, penetrating oil

– Interior/Exterior: Screwdrivers, pry bar, utility knife

– Electrical Parts: Wire cutters, needle-nose pliers

Hours of Operation

Cornell’s Used Auto Parts maintains consistent business hours to serve customers throughout the work week:

Monday–Friday: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Saturday and Sunday: Closed

While the yard is typically closed on weekends for regular business, they occasionally host special events. For example, a car show is scheduled for Saturday, May 3, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM at their location.

Service Area

Cornell’s Used Auto Parts serves customers from throughout Saratoga County and the broader Capital Region of New York. Cities and towns near Cornell’s where customers frequently travel from include:

Saratoga Springs: The closest major city, located just five miles south of Greenfield

Albany: A larger city approximately 30 miles south, accessible via Route 9N

Milton: A neighboring town in Saratoga County

Corinth: A town formed from parts of Greenfield’s original territory

Hadley: Another town created from Greenfield’s land

The yard’s strategic location makes it a convenient option for residents throughout the Junkyards in New York area looking for quality used auto parts.

Parts Compatibility System

Cornell’s Used Auto Parts facilitates part compatibility through a combination of extensive inventory management and expert sales support. Their approach to helping customers find compatible parts includes:

Large-scale inventory: With 1,200–1,500 vehicles and approximately 80,000 parts across all makes and models, they can effectively cross-reference parts from diverse vehicles.

Sales team expertise: Their staff includes team members with decades of industry experience who use their knowledge to identify compatible parts across different vehicle makes and models.

Customers can request specific parts, and staff will verify availability in their database. If a specific part isn’t available, the sales team can suggest functionally equivalent parts from other compatible vehicles.

Their regional delivery system allows customers to source parts from their network, with daily deliveries to the Capital Region and Upstate NY.

News and Notable Information

Cornell’s Used Auto Parts has been featured in recent news for its 2nd Annual Car Show held on May 4, 2024. The event drew hundreds of attendees and raised over $6,400 for Double H Ranch, a nonprofit supporting children with life-threatening illnesses.

Event Highlights

Classic and modern vehicles on display

Food, yard tours, trophies, and a live DJ

Community engagement and charitable giving

Significant funds donated to Double H Ranch

The car show has become an annual tradition for Cornell’s, with plans to expand future events. This charitable initiative demonstrates the business’s commitment to community involvement beyond providing quality used car window for less at a salvage yard.

Other Salvage Yards in the Area

Feature	Cornell’s Used Auto Parts	Route 34 U-PULL-M
Location	Greenfield Center, NY	Auburn, NY (~100 miles west)
Inventory	1,200–1,500 vehicles, 80,000+ parts	Over 1,200 vehicles
Service Model	Full-service parts sourcing	Self-service (customer pulls parts)
Warranty	Standard 6-month, extended options	30-day warranty
Additional Services	Network access to 1M+ parts	Buys scrap metal and junk vehicles
Hours	Mon–Fri 8AM–5PM	Mon–Sat 8AM–4PM

Route 34 U-PULL-M Auto Parts & Recycling Center, located in Auburn, NY (approximately 100 miles west of Greenfield Center), represents a different approach to the salvage yard business model. While Cornell’s offers full-service assistance, Route 34 operates as a self-service yard where customers bring their own tools and pull parts themselves.

The distance between these facilities means they likely serve different regional markets, with Cornell’s focusing on the Saratoga/Albany area and Route 34 serving the western part of the state.

Common Questions About Cornell’s Used Auto Parts

1. How do I find the specific part I need at Cornell’s Used Auto Parts?

To locate a part, first identify it by name or description (e.g., “brake caliper for a 2015 Honda Civic”). Cornell’s offers an online search tool to check inventory availability. If unsure, consult a mechanic or dealer to confirm the part name. For in-person visits, bring your vehicle’s make, model, year, and trim details to streamline the search. Some yards, like Cornell’s, have pre-pulled parts on shelves, while others require self-service “U-pull” extraction. Always verify compatibility before purchasing.

2. Are there parts I should avoid buying used from a junkyard?

While no part is strictly off-limits, some items are cost-prohibitive to buy used. Belts, hoses, and brake pads are often cheaper to purchase new. For parts like alternators or starters, check if they’ve been stored outdoors long-term, as exposure to elements can cause failure. Cornell’s provides a 6-month warranty on parts, but always inspect items for damage before purchasing. Mechanics often advise against used airbags or critical safety parts due to reliability risks.

3. How much should I expect to pay for used parts?

Prices typically range between 30–50% of the cost of a new part. For example, a $300 new control arm might cost $150–$200 used. Cornell’s and similar yards often price parts based on new OEM costs, but research is key. Compare prices using tools like RockAuto or dealer quotes to avoid overpaying. Some yards offer discounts during promotions (e.g., “half-price weekends”).

4. Can I negotiate prices at junkyards?

Negotiation varies by yard. Some salvage yards have fixed pricing, while others may offer flexibility, especially for bulk purchases or less common parts. Cornell’s, as part of the PRP-NE network, likely has standardized pricing due to access to over 1 million parts. Always confirm pricing policies upfront. For U-pull yards, prices are often non-negotiable but lower than pre-pulled parts.

5. What is the return policy for used parts?

Most junkyards, including Cornell’s, offer a 6-month warranty on parts. Return policies typically require proof of purchase and may allow exchanges or store credit rather than cash refunds. Check for deadlines (e.g., 30–60 days) and conditions (e.g., parts must be in original condition). For critical parts, verify the warranty terms before buying.

6. How does the “U-pull” process work at junkyards?

At U-pull yards, customers enter the lot (often paying a small fee, e.g., $5), bring tools, and remove parts themselves. Cornell’s operates as a full-service yard, but for those familiar with U-pull operations:

– Tools: Bring basic tools (wrenches, screwdrivers) and protective gear (closed-toe shoes).

– Inspection: Check parts for damage before removal.

– Payment: Prices are often listed on a board; pay at the front desk after extraction.

7. Are used parts compatible with my vehicle?

Compatibility depends on the part and vehicle. For example, a 2010 Toyota Camry’s part might fit a 2008 Prius if they share parts. Cornell’s staff can verify compatibility using your vehicle’s details (make, model, year, trim). Always confirm part numbers or consult a mechanic if uncertain. For affordable emissions solutions, you might save big on used catalytic converters from salvage yards.

Cornell’s Used Auto Parts in Greenfield Center, NY, offers a comprehensive solution for quality used auto parts with professional service, extensive inventory, and solid warranties. Their family-owned approach, combined with a commitment to environmental practices and community involvement, has established them as a trusted resource for automotive needs in Saratoga County and beyond.

Whether you’re a mechanic looking for specific parts, a DIY enthusiast working on your own vehicle, or someone seeking affordable repairs, Cornell’s provides reliable auto parts with the expertise to ensure you get the right fit for your vehicle.

Cornell’s Used Auto Parts is the premier destination for all of your automotive needs in Greenfield Center, NY. With over 30 years of experience, we are a family-owned and operated business providing quality used auto parts at competitive prices. We’re proud to be one of the most reliable sources for car parts in the area and have built a solid reputation with our customers. Our extensive selection of parts includes engines, transmissions, brakes, suspension components, alternators and starters, body panels and more. Whether you are looking for a single part or an entire engine overhaul, we have the expertise and resources to get you exactly what you need.

We offer a variety of services to meet the needs of all types of vehicle owners. From general repairs and maintenance to more serious issues such as accident repair or total vehicle rebuilds, our experienced technicians can take care of it all. We also provide free estimates on any job so that customers can feel confident in their investments before any work begins. In addition to auto repair services, we also offer scrap metal recycling at our junkyard and salvage yard facility located onsite. We accept a wide range of scrap metals from copper wire and aluminum cans to large items like cars and appliances.

At Cornell’s Used Auto Parts we take pride in being able to provide our customers with expert car repair advice combined with premium used auto parts at low prices so they can keep their vehicles running smoothly without breaking the bank. Stop by today or give us a call if you have any questions—we look forward to helping you find exactly what you need!

Real customer testimonials

Mason Burhoe

Rated this company 5/5

These guys are great. I bought a fender for my 91 roadmaster on eBay, but it was too rusty. I drove from CT to get it so I was pretty disappointed at first, but they not only let me out onto the yard to check it out, they let me take just the trim (the only part I really needed) for free for the hassle. I even got a T shirt too! Need more businesses like these guys. They know how to make things right with their customers!

Nicholas Wilson

Rated this company 1/5

They sold me a transmission (4k plus)that knocks and makes some other really weird noise.. said they would call me with a company to have it looked at…never was able to get them on the phone and have left countless messages!! I’ll be out 3k just putting this transmission in and taking it back out!! Also to top it off they offered a 100k mile warranty over the phone to only a six month warranty when it came to pay them… there general manager is who I originally dealt with and accepts that fact that I had to pay to install and now pay to take it out!! If I could rate this company lower I would.. will see them in court!

Michele LaChance

Rated this company 5/5

This is my 1st time using this company and I will never go anywhere else !I will recommend it to my friends and family .Paul the man who helped me out on a Friday at almost five ,he spent time to go the extra mile .The day I was going to pick the part up he called to warn me not to do something to the part as I would destroy it .Who does that anymore .Got my part hopefully this is my fix .If not I know I’ll call n drive to this company.Thank you Paul and Cornell’s.