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Hidden Valley Auto Parts: Classic Salvage Specialists in Maricopa, AZ
A Vintage Automotive Treasure in Arizona’s Desert
Hidden Valley Auto Parts, tucked away at 53501 W Jersey Dr, Maricopa, AZ 85139, stands as a long-established salvage yard specializing in classic and vintage vehicles. Since 1961, this family-owned business has served as a crucial resource for automotive enthusiasts seeking hard-to-find parts for older models. With a focus on preserving automotive history rather than modern vehicles, this Maricopa salvage yard offers a unique alternative to typical junkyards found across Arizona.
Establishment and Ownership
Hidden Valley Auto Parts was founded by Don Hoctor in 1961, who transitioned from auto-body repair to salvage operations due to health concerns and better financial prospects. The yard remains firmly in Hoctor family hands, with Don’s son Jeff Hoctor actively managing operations alongside his brothers Matt and Joe Hoctor, and Jeff’s son Kyle Hoctor representing the third generation of family ownership.
The business has expanded beyond its original location to include two additional storage yards in Arizona, processing approximately 100 cars annually. Their 10-acre site in Maricopa houses an impressive collection of vintage automotive treasures, establishing Hidden Valley as one of the more enduring salvage businesses in Pinal County with over six decades of continuous operation.
Services Provided
| Service Category | Description |
|---|---|
| Used Auto Parts Sales | Specialized inventory of classic and vintage car parts with a focus on preservation |
| Vehicle Purchasing | Buys cars from the public with a preference for classic and vintage models |
| Worldwide Shipping | Ships parts globally to serve collectors and restorers internationally |
| Parts Warranty | 90-day standard warranty on all parts purchased |
| Creative Repurposing | Transforms unused parts into functional items like lamps, benches, and tables |
| Self-Service Salvage | Yard access for pickers and pullers seeking specific parts |
Hidden Valley Auto Parts operates as a self-service salvage yard where enthusiasts can explore the inventory themselves. Their business model emphasizes hands-on management and personal customer interactions, aligning with their family-driven approach to business.
The yard’s primary focus is preserving automotive history through used parts sales, particularly for classic cars. Unlike many modern auto recyclers that prioritize quick turnover, Hidden Valley’s approach centers on maintaining a specialized inventory that serves the needs of restoration projects and vintage vehicle owners.
Vehicle Types
The inventory at Hidden Valley Auto Parts reflects their dedication to preserving automotive heritage, featuring an extensive collection of classic, vintage, and rare vehicles. Their yard showcases a diverse array of makes and models:
- American classics: Dodge, Pontiac, Studebaker (trucks and coupes), Lincoln sedans, and Chevrolet vans
- European models: Fiat 500, Vauxhall Firenza, and Borgward Isabella
- Unusual finds: Honda 600, Flxible Clipper bus, and International Harvester (IH) school buses
The inventory emphasizes pre–1970s vehicles, with no evidence of newer or late-model cars in the available search results. This specialized focus is part of what makes Hidden Valley a go-to resource for collectors seeking parts for older restoration projects that might be impossible to find elsewhere.
If you’re looking for body parts like hoods or side mirrors for classic vehicles, Hidden Valley’s collection might have exactly what you need.
Popular Auto Parts
Based on industry trends and the specialized nature of Hidden Valley Auto Parts, these are the most commonly purchased used parts (excluding consumables like belts, bulbs, or filters):
Most Sought-After Classic Car Parts
- Engines and Transmissions
Complete engines and transmissions for vintage vehicles are high-value items due to their rarity and cost when purchased new. Many customers seek these major parts for complete restorations.
- Body Panels
Original fenders, doors, hoods, and bumpers are in high demand for collision repairs or authentic restorations of classic cars. Finding matching panels in good condition can be challenging.
- Wheels and Tires
Period-correct wheels and vintage wheel covers are popular purchases, especially for show cars and complete restorations.
- Interior Parts
Seats, dashboards, steering wheels, and trim pieces from classic cars are difficult to reproduce and valuable to collectors trying to maintain originality.
- Electronics and Accessories
Original radios, gauges, switches, and other period-correct electronic parts are sought after to maintain authentic restorations.
- Suspension and Steering Parts
Control arms, springs, and steering components for older vehicles are often no longer manufactured, making salvage yards the only source.
When visiting Hidden Valley Auto Parts or similar salvage yards, many customers bring their own tools since the yard follows a self-service model. This approach allows customers to extract the parts themselves, reducing costs and ensuring they get exactly what they need.
Warranty Information
Hidden Valley Auto Parts offers a standard 90-day warranty on all used auto parts purchased from their yard. This warranty coverage includes:
Warranty Coverage
- Duration: 90 days from the date of purchase
- Scope: Covers parts against defects, excluding normal wear and tear. Electrical parts are included in this coverage.
- Exclusions: Labor costs, towing charges, loss of use, and repairs unrelated to the part itself are not covered
While their website doesn’t explicitly mention extended warranty options, industry standards suggest there may be possibilities for extended coverage ranging from 6 months to longer periods, though this would need to be confirmed directly with the business.
Additional policies include a 15% restock fee for returned parts, and core returns must be completed within 30 days. The warranty becomes void if there’s evidence of tampering, faulty installation, or misuse of the part.
For specific warranty pricing or extended coverage options, customers should contact Hidden Valley Auto Parts directly as this information is not publicly listed.
Service Area
Hidden Valley Auto Parts serves customers from numerous surrounding communities in Arizona. Based on proximity to their Maricopa location, customers frequently visit from:
- Casa Blanca
- Sun Lakes
- Sacaton
- Casa Grande
- Chandler
- Guadalupe
- San Carlos
- Gilbert
- Tempe Junction
- Tempe
- Blackwater
- Phoenix
- Queen Creek
- Mesa
- Tolleson
- Arizona City
- Coolidge
- Avondale
- San Tan Valley
- Goodyear
- Scottsdale
This extensive service area demonstrates Hidden Valley’s reputation as a regional resource for classic car enthusiasts and restoration specialists throughout central Arizona.
Hours of Operation
Hidden Valley Auto Parts at 53501 W. Jersey Drive, Maricopa, AZ 85139 operates under the following schedule (effective February 1, 2025):
Open Thursday and Friday from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
The business does not open on weekends (Saturday or Sunday), limiting their operations to the two weekday days mentioned above.
Contact information:
– Phone: (520) 568–2945 or (602) 252–2122
– Email: [email protected]
These limited hours reflect the specialized nature of the business and their focus on quality over quantity. If you’re planning a visit, it’s advisable to call ahead to confirm current hours.
Tools and Equipment for Pulling Parts
| Part Category | Recommended Tools |
|---|---|
| General Use | Socket sets (1/4“, 3/8”, 1/2″ drive), wrenches (adjustable, box-end, open-end), pry bars, hammers, magnetic pickup tools |
| Engine/Transmission | Breaker bars, torque wrenches, fluid transfer tools (funnels, drain pans) |
| Brake System | Brake tool sets, snap ring pliers, cylinder hones |
| Electrical Parts | Insulated tools, circuit testers, wire cutters/strippers |
| Body/Exterior | Trim removal tools, dent viewers, alignment bars |
| Suspension/Steering | Ball joint separators, tie rod end pullers, spring compressors |
Hidden Valley Auto Parts does not explicitly list tools they provide for customers to use on-site. As with most self-service salvage yards, customers should bring their own tools appropriate for the parts they intend to remove.
When visiting the yard, remember that different parts require different tools. For example, removing an engine block will require heavy-duty tools like breaker bars and engine hoists, while interior parts might need only basic hand tools and trim removal equipment.
Given the yard’s focus on classic cars, customers should be prepared with tools suitable for older vehicles, which may have different fastener types and sizes than modern cars. It’s always a good idea to call ahead and ask about any specific tools recommended for the particular vehicle or part you’re interested in.
Cash for Junk Cars
Hidden Valley Auto Parts does buy cars from the general public, as explicitly stated on their website with the phrase “We Buy Cars.” While the search results don’t explicitly mention “cash for cars,” as a salvage yard, they typically purchase vehicles in exchange for payment.
Key details:
– Vehicle focus: The business specializes in older/classic cars, with a stated preference for preserving vintage models over modern vehicles.
– Condition: As a salvage yard, they likely accept vehicles in any condition, though their emphasis on classic car restoration suggests a stronger interest in older models.
– Operations: They process approximately 100 cars annually and have been in operation since 1961.
– Contact: Potential sellers should contact them directly via phone (602–252–2122) or email ([email protected]).
If you’re considering selling your junk car to Hidden Valley, remember their specific focus on classic and vintage vehicles may affect the offer you receive. Their business model differs from high-volume general junkyards that buy cars primarily for scrap metal value.
Other Junkyards in Maricopa
Based on the search results, no other junkyards were found in close proximity to Hidden Valley Auto Parts at 53501 W Jersey Dr, Maricopa, AZ 85139. The closest listed salvage yards and auto parts stores are located in Phoenix, AZ (~30–40 miles away), including:
Deer Valley Used Parts (Phoenix, AZ)
- Address: 3010 W Broadway Rd B, Phoenix, AZ 85041
- Services: Wide selection of used auto parts for multiple vehicle brands (Ford, Chevy, Toyota, etc.), competitive pricing, and staff assistance.
- Hours: Mon-Sat 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
- Customer Feedback: Mixed reviews, with some praising reliability and others citing issues with part quality and refund policies.
U-Pull-&-Pay Phoenix
- Address: Not explicitly listed, but described as a Phoenix-based salvage yard.
- Services: Self-service salvage yard with organized inventory, online vehicle search, and free towing for junk car sales.
- Features: Clean, organized layout and tools for part removal.
O’Reilly Auto Parts (Maricopa, AZ)
- Address: 21518 N John Wayne Parkway, Maricopa, AZ.
- Services: Retail auto parts store offering tools, accessories, and services like battery testing and brake rotor resurfacing.
- Note: Not a junkyard but a traditional auto parts retailer.
Comparison to Hidden Valley Auto Parts:
– Hidden Valley focuses on used auto parts sales and car purchases, operating limited hours (Thu-Fri 9 AM–4 PM).
– Deer Valley and U-Pull-&-Pay offer broader inventories and extended hours but are located in Phoenix, making them less convenient for Maricopa residents.
– O’Reilly provides retail parts and services but lacks salvage yard features.
This scarcity of local competition highlights Hidden Valley’s unique position as the primary salvage resource in Maricopa.
Common Questions About Hidden Valley Auto Parts
1. What services does Hidden Valley Auto Parts offer?
Hidden Valley Auto Parts operates as a salvage yard specializing in used auto parts. They provide parts for various vehicles and ship worldwide, catering to both local and international customers. While their website emphasizes parts sales, they also purchase vehicles, particularly classic models, and creatively repurpose parts into functional items like lamps and benches.
2. How do I sell my car to Hidden Valley Auto Parts?
To sell a vehicle, you typically need to prove ownership using documents like a title, auction receipt, or lien paperwork. While Hidden Valley’s website does not explicitly outline their purchasing process, most junkyards assess value based on factors like make, model, age, and condition. Given their specialization in classic cars, vintage vehicles might receive better offers than newer models.
3. Can I pull parts myself from vehicles in the yard?
Hidden Valley Auto Parts does not explicitly mention a self-service “u-pull” model, but they are described as a treasure trove for “pickers and pullers,” suggesting a self-service approach. If you’re planning to extract parts yourself, call ahead to inquire about their process and any tools you should bring.
4. How are parts priced, and can I negotiate?
Pricing varies by yard and part type. Hidden Valley likely lists prices for common parts on-site or via phone. Most salvage yards avoid haggling due to low profit margins on used parts. For example, a dashboard cluster might cost $15–$50 depending on the yard. Always inspect parts for damage before purchasing, even with their 90-day warranty.
5. Do they offer free towing for sold vehicles?
While Hidden Valley’s website does not specify towing services, many junkyards provide free towing as an incentive to sell. Confirm this directly with the yard, especially if your vehicle is non-operational.
6. Can I donate my car instead of selling it?
Some junkyards accept vehicle donations for tax deductions, though Hidden Valley’s website does not mention this explicitly. If you’re interested in donating rather than selling, contact them directly to inquire about this possibility.
7. What are their business hours?
Hidden Valley Auto Parts is open Thursday and Friday from 9 AM to 4 PM. Hours may vary seasonally or due to holidays, so calling ahead is advisable.
For specific inquiries, contact Hidden Valley Auto Parts at (520) 568–2945 or (602) 252–2122.
Hidden Valley Auto Parts, located at 53501 W Jersey Dr in Maricopa, AZ 85139, offers a wide selection of car parts and other related materials for those looking to fix their own vehicles. From new parts to used components, Hidden Valley stocks a variety of different items for vehicles of all makes and models. The store also carries scrap metal, junkyard parts and old auto parts that can be reused after being refurbished or retooled. Customers can find an extensive array of products available at the shop, ranging from replacement engines to nuts and bolts.
At Hidden Valley Auto Parts, customers are guaranteed quality products and customer service that is second to none. Experienced staff members are on hand to assist with any questions or inquiries regarding the various items available. They will go out of their way to find the specific part needed for your vehicle and answer any questions that may arise during the process. In addition to having knowledgeable staff onsite, Hidden Valley also has access to over 500 million dollars worth of inventory in its national network which allows them to provide a wide selection of products at discounted prices.
The salvage yard services provided by Hidden Valley are top-notch as well. They will inspect all cars taken into their junkyard before they are sold or recycled so customers know they are getting a quality product that is safe and reliable. Furthermore, they offer free delivery within Maricopa County so customers can save time and money when purchasing items from the store or using their services.
For those looking for an affordable way to fix their vehicles without breaking the bank, Hidden Valley Auto Parts is one of Maricopa’s best options! With quality customer service, great prices and access to millions of dollars worth of inventory nationwide – you can’t go wrong when visiting this auto parts shop.
Real customer testimonials
Bob Stark
Online purchase. Received quality part with good packaging, and reasonably priced quick shipping.
Cj Pitman
Great folks, seemed to be a family run business, they where all very helpful in finding and providing what I needed for my older pickup truck! They were pleasant to deal with as well, which is refreshing these days!
Robert O’Brien
The staff was extremely friendly helpful knowledgeable. This is a salvage yard for older vehicles trucks cars. They take out the parts in front of you and show you that they are in working order if possible. I have an older 1992 Vandura and will certainly be back if I need any more parts since there is one in their salvage yard. The prices were more than reasonable.
Edward M
Didn’t have what I was looking for but they were super nice and told me exactly what I needed. They specialize in older vehicles. They let me walk around their yard. Tons of old cars and old parts. I was in aww.
S MOSLEY
1969 Oldsmobile 442 steel dash assembly
I called Hidden Valley Auto Parts to see if they had the dash assembly that I needed after I had checked with some jerk at Desert Valley Auto Parts and I’m here to let you know a couple of things..
1. The guy at DVAP tried to jack the price up on me while I was still on the phone and the amount of time he needed to get the dash out and shipped was unreasonable. I’ll never call them for anything ever again and will tell others in the restoration business the same.
2. I called Matt at HVAP and inquired about the same part and luckily he had it. He gave me a reasonable price and shipping quote and told me he would go and take pictures of the dash before he cut the windshield out of the car. From the looks of those pictures I was confident in giving him payment information after he assured me if they got the W/S out he would send me more pictures before he cut it out of the car for my final approval. The pictures came as promised so I called and authorized him to cut it out and send it to me and he advised me it may be a week and a half before the part made it to my door, this was late on Thursday evening, 11AUGUST2016. I was pleasantly surprised when I got a UPS shipment notification late Friday evening, 12AUGUST2016 letting me know it was on the way. I received the part by UPS on 17 August 2016 in perfect condition and am pleased to say it exceeded my expectation. In the future I will not waste my time with the other place and will be happy to do business with Hidden Valley Auto Parts.
