Imperial Auto Parts: Indianapolis’s Premier Used Auto Parts Salvage Yard
Establishment and History
Imperial Auto Parts, located at 1130 E 25th St, Indianapolis, IN 46205, stands as one of the city’s longest-running auto salvage yards with over 40 years of operational experience. While business records show conflicting establishment dates – with Better Business Bureau records indicating an April 2000 incorporation and other sources suggesting origins dating back to 1970 – what’s clear is the business’s deep roots in the Indianapolis automotive parts landscape.
Currently under new management, Imperial Auto Parts has maintained its commitment to quality service throughout ownership transitions. The business has built a reputation as a leading provider of used auto parts in the Indianapolis area, serving generations of customers seeking affordable alternatives to new parts.
For those interested in exploring more salvage options in the state, check out other Junkyards in Indiana for additional locations.
Comprehensive Services
Imperial Auto Parts offers a wide range of services designed to help customers find quality used auto parts at affordable prices. Their business model focuses on providing solutions for vehicle owners looking to save money on repairs and maintenance.
Service Type
Description
Benefits
Nationwide Parts Locating
Access to over 150 million parts through networked inventory system
Find rare and hard-to-source parts quickly
Junk Car Purchasing
Cash for wrecked or junk vehicles regardless of condition
Quick way to dispose of unwanted vehicles
Used Parts Sales
Extensive inventory of quality tested used parts
Significant savings compared to new parts
Export Services
Re-export of approximately 95% of products to African countries
International shipping capabilities
Full-Service Assistance
Expert help finding the right parts for your vehicle
Saves time and ensures compatibility
Their full-service yard approach differentiates them from self-service junkyards, providing customers with expert assistance rather than requiring them to pull parts themselves. This business model focuses on convenience and reliability, particularly beneficial for those who may lack the tools or experience to extract parts safely.
Imperial Auto Parts carries a diverse inventory of used auto parts sourced from various vehicle types. While their website doesn’t list specific makes and models, their long-standing operation suggests a comprehensive selection of both domestic and import vehicles, including cars, light trucks, vans, and SUVs across all model years.
The yard likely maintains inventory from popular manufacturers such as:
American brands: Ford, Chevrolet, Dodge, Jeep
Asian imports: Toyota, Honda, Nissan, Hyundai
European models: Volkswagen, BMW, Mercedes-Benz
Their inventory typically includes both newer and late-model vehicles, providing parts for a wide range of automotive repair needs. For customers seeking specific parts, the business offers an online inventory search tool through their website, allowing for quick verification of availability before visiting.
Most Popular Auto Parts
Based on industry trends, the most commonly purchased used auto parts at salvage yards like Imperial Parts LLC include major mechanical and body parts that are expensive when bought new but remain viable when sourced from salvage vehicles.
Key Parts and Their Demand
Engines
These represent some of the most valuable and sought-after parts in any salvage yard. Used engines typically cost 50–80% less than new ones while often retaining significant useful life. Many customers seek these when faced with catastrophic engine failure that would otherwise total their vehicle.
Transmissions
Another high-value part that makes economic sense to purchase used. Both automatic and manual transmissions are popular items, especially for older vehicles where new replacements might exceed the car’s value.
Body Panels
Parts like doors, bumpers, fenders, and hoods are frequently purchased used, particularly for cosmetic repairs or restoration projects. These parts maintain their structural integrity when properly removed and stored.
Front-End Components
Radiators, grilles, and front suspension parts see high demand due to their vulnerability in minor collisions. These parts often remain completely functional despite vehicle totaling.
Imperial Auto Parts LLC offers a 30-day standard warranty on most used parts, with the notable exception of electrical components which are explicitly excluded from coverage. This warranty period begins from the date of purchase and represents the business’s commitment to standing behind the quality of their parts.
The warranty terms appear straightforward with no information about extended options or additional costs beyond the standard coverage period. This policy aligns with industry standards for used auto parts businesses, where warranty periods are typically shorter than those for new parts due to the inherent nature of previously used components.
Customers should note that electrical parts such as starters, alternators, and electronic control modules carry no warranty, likely due to the unpredictable nature of electrical issues and the difficulty in testing these components under all operational conditions.
Cash for Junk Cars
Imperial Auto Parts actively purchases junk cars from the public, operating under the business categories “WE BUY CARS” and “WE BUY JUNK CARS” as part of their core services. As an established auto salvage and wrecking operation, they specialize in acquiring vehicles for parts and scrap value.
Vehicle buying policy highlights:
– Purchases vehicles in any condition, including non-running, damaged, or wrecked cars
– Likely offers cash payments on the spot, typical of the auto salvage industry
– Functions as an auto crushing service, accepting vehicles that may no longer be roadworthy
This service provides a valuable option for those looking to dispose of unwanted vehicles while recovering some value. For those with cars at the end of their useful life, Imperial’s cash-for-cars service offers an environmentally responsible recycling path while providing immediate payment.
Imperial Auto Parts serves customers from throughout Indianapolis and the surrounding suburban communities. The yard’s central location makes it accessible to residents from numerous nearby cities and towns who travel to the facility seeking quality used auto parts at competitive prices.
Key cities and towns that comprise Imperial Auto Parts’ customer base include:
Carmel: Known for its arts district and upscale residential areas
Fishers: Family-friendly suburb with excellent schools and growing population
Brownsburg: Offers a mix of urban amenities with suburban living
Zionsville: Characterized by historic charm and community events
Plainfield: Home to affordable housing options and growing business sector
Avon: Features thriving local businesses and dining establishments
Speedway: Famous for the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, attracting car enthusiasts
Noblesville: Offers cultural attractions and extensive parks
Westfield: Growing community with outdoor recreation opportunities
Greenwood: Centrally located with extensive shopping and dining options
Lawrence: Home to Fort Harrison State Park and green spaces
The yard’s proximity to these communities makes it a resource for budget-conscious car owners throughout the greater Indianapolis metropolitan area.
Auto Parts Interchange System
While specific information about Imperial Parts LLC’s internal parts interchange system isn’t detailed in available sources, most established salvage yards operate using similar systems to help customers find compatible parts across different vehicle makes and models.
Typical auto parts interchange systems include:
Online Database Search: Customers can search by vehicle make, model, year, and desired part name to find compatible options, even if an exact match isn’t available.
Cross-Reference Inventory: Modern yards use computer systems that quickly identify alternative parts that will fit a customer’s vehicle, maximizing the chances of finding needed parts.
Compatibility Identification: Systems identify interchangeable parts from different vehicle models, expanding available options beyond the specific vehicle the customer owns.
The practical benefit of these systems is that customers often discover they can use parts from entirely different vehicle models to repair their cars, typically at substantial savings. For example, a door handle from a different year or even different model might be fully compatible with a customer’s vehicle.
Tools and Equipment for Auto Part Removal
When visiting Imperial Auto Parts or similar establishments, having the right tools makes the difference between a successful parts retrieval and a frustrating experience. The facility provides specialized tools for specific tasks while expecting customers to bring basic hand tools for general disassembly.
Tool Category
Specific Tools
Used For
Provided or Personal
Basic Hand Tools
Screwdrivers, wrenches, socket sets
General disassembly, bolt removal
Customer brings
Specialty Tools
Panel clip removal pliers, trim tools
Safe removal of plastic clips and trim
Provided by yard
Prying Tools
Pry bars, trim removal tools
Separating panels, interior parts
Customer brings
Cutting Tools
Bolt cutters, metal shears
Cutting through stubborn fasteners
Customer brings
Body Hardware
Clips, fasteners, retainers
Replacement for damaged hardware
Available for purchase
Part-Specific Tool Recommendations:
Body panels/trim: Use the yard’s clip removal pliers to avoid damaging valuable plastic fasteners.
Engine parts: Standard wrenches and sockets for most bolts; penetrating oil for rusty fasteners.
Interior parts: Trim tools to prevent cracking plastic dashboard and door panels.
Based on available information for Imperial Auto Parts, there is no explicit mention of a cover fee or entry charge to access their facility. This aligns with their business model as a full-service yard rather than a self-service operation, where entry fees are more common.
Similarly, the sources don’t specify any special discounts, promotions, or loyalty programs. However, the business emphasizes quality service and their long-standing industry reputation, suggesting competitive pricing is part of their value proposition.
Customers interested in specific pricing policies, potential discounts, or special offers should contact Imperial Auto Parts directly via phone (317–964–0675) for the most current information.
Hours of Operation
Imperial Auto Parts maintains regular business hours to serve customers throughout the week:
Weekdays (Monday–Friday): 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM Sunday: Closed
These hours accommodate both weekday and weekend shoppers, providing flexibility for those who work standard business hours. The extended weekday hours until 6:00 PM allow customers to visit after their workday, while the Saturday hours provide weekend access for DIY mechanics and car enthusiasts.
The business has maintained these consistent hours while operating for over 40 years, building reliability in customer expectations.
Other Junkyards in Indianapolis
For comparison shoppers looking for used auto parts in Indianapolis, several other salvage yards operate in the area, each with distinct offerings and specialties:
Butch’s Auto Parts
Address: 1326628, Indianapolis, IN 46221 Key Features:
– Operates since 1992 (30+ years in the industry)
– Offers free towing and same-day pickup for junk car sellers
– Focuses on junk car purchasing with “top dollar paid for vehicles”
Indianapolis Auto Parts, LLC
Address: 520 N. Raceway Rd, Indianapolis, IN Key Features:
– Under new ownership while maintaining established operations
– Provides 30 & 90-day warranties on parts
– Offers UPS® & FedEx® shipping for parts delivery
– Features an online search tool for in-stock inventory
Other Nearby Salvage Yards
8424 E 33rd St, Indianapolis, IN 46226
8719 Boehning Ln, Indianapolis, IN 46219
8512 Pendleton Pike, Indianapolis, IN 46226
8851 Pendleton Pike, Indianapolis, IN 46226
7145 E 46th St, Lawrence, IN 46226
Compared to Imperial Parts LLC:
– Butch’s Auto Parts specializes in junk car buying with free towing, while Imperial focuses more on parts sales with a broader inventory history.
– Indianapolis Auto Parts, LLC emphasizes warranties and shipping, contrasting with Imperial’s traditional parts-focused model.
For customers seeking parts sales, Imperial’s longevity and inventory tools make it a strong choice. Those looking to sell junk cars may prefer Butch’s towing services, while Indianapolis Auto Parts might better serve buyers needing warranties and shipping options.
Common Questions About Imperial Auto Parts
1. What types of auto parts does Imperial Auto Parts offer?
Imperial Auto Parts specializes in used and rebuilt auto parts, positioning itself as a leading retailer in the industry. Their inventory includes a broad range of parts likely covering engines, transmissions, and other mechanical parts. Their focus on quality service and long-standing operation (over 40 years) speaks to a curated selection of functional, tested parts.
2. How can I verify the quality of used auto parts from Imperial Auto Parts?
The company emphasizes quality service and positions itself as “#1 in the industry,” indicating rigorous quality checks. While their specific testing protocols aren’t detailed in available information, their reputation and operational longevity suggest parts are inspected for functionality before sale. Customers can use their inventory search tool to identify specific parts and request condition details directly.
3. Do they ship parts internationally?
Yes, Imperial Auto Parts exports over 95% of its products to African countries, including Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and Nigeria. This indicates robust international shipping capabilities, though specific logistics (carriers, costs) aren’t outlined in the available information.
4. What is their return policy for purchased parts?
The available information doesn’t explicitly state their return policy. However, as a salvage yard, returns may be limited or subject to specific conditions. Customers should contact the company directly via phone (317–964–0675) to confirm current return terms.
5. How can I contact Imperial Auto Parts for inquiries?
Contact options include:
– Phone: 317–964–0675 (business hours: Mon-Fri 9 AM–6 PM, Sat 9 AM–4 PM EST)
– Email: Via their website’s contact feature
– Address: 1130 E 25th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46205
6. Do they offer warranties or guarantees on their parts?
Imperial Auto Parts offers a 30-day standard warranty on most used parts, excluding electrical parts which carry no warranty. This aligns with industry standards for used auto parts businesses.
7. How can I check if a specific part is in stock?
Imperial Auto Parts provides an online inventory search tool on their website, allowing customers to check availability. For real-time updates, contacting them via phone is recommended, as inventory in salvage yards fluctuates frequently.
Imperial Auto Parts stands as a well-established fixture in Indianapolis’s automotive landscape, serving the community’s used auto parts needs for over four decades. Their full-service approach focuses on customer convenience and quality assurance, differentiating them from self-service yards that require customers to do the heavy lifting.
With their extensive inventory, nationwide parts locating service, and commitment to quality, they’ve built a reputation that has sustained them through multiple decades and management changes. For Indianapolis residents seeking affordable alternatives to new parts or looking to dispose of junk vehicles, Imperial Auto Parts offers reliable solutions backed by years of industry experience.
Whether you’re a DIY mechanic working on a budget-friendly repair or a professional seeking hard-to-find parts, Imperial Auto Parts provides an established resource with a proven track record of customer service and part quality in the Indianapolis area.
Imperial Parts LLC is a renowned car parts supplier, junkyard, salvage yard, scrap metal dealer and used auto parts store located at 1130 E 25th St in Indianapolis, IN 46205. Since opening its doors almost 30 years ago, the company has been providing customers with quality products and friendly customer service.
The team at Imperial Parts LLC strives to provide their customers with the best parts for their vehicles. They carry a wide selection of new and used parts as well as remanufactured and OEM components to meet the needs of any customer. Customers can be assured that they will get quality parts at competitive prices when they shop at Imperial Parts LLC.
In addition to selling new and used parts, Imperial Parts LLC also offers services such as dismantling, recycling, repair and maintenance services. Their team of experienced professionals understand how important it is to get your car running like new again. Whether you are looking for new or used parts or are looking to have your current car serviced, Imperial Parts LLC can help you out.
Their impressive inventory includes everything from alternators and batteries to engines, exhaust systems and transmissions. With so many options available for both domestic and foreign cars you are sure to find what you need no matter what type of vehicle you have. Whether you need engine components or brake pads, the experts at Imperial Parts LLC will have them available for you in stock or can order them in for you quickly if necessary.
At Imperial Parts LLC they take pride in their commitment to excellence by providing quality products and dependable service every time. The knowledgeable staff strives to make sure each customer is satisfied with their purchase before leaving their store so that all customers leave happy knowing that they got the right part for their car at a great price!
Real customer testimonials
Rolando Ortega
Rated this company 5/5
Great customer Service and Very knowledgeable. Out of all the junk jards in Indianapolis , brownsburg and avon. This was rhe only yard that both knew my part specifics and actually had it. Owner is very courteous as well as the front desk representative. I owe her a coffee 😉 …..thank you guys.
New Beetle
Rated this company 1/5
This yard back in the 70's and late 80's was a great place to buy cars and parts.
Now it was sold off to people that don't know what parts they have they will tell you on the phone they have it and you go and they tell you close where the parts car is you walk out the back door after you slip and slide thru the garage area on spilled oil to the outside where you step in engine sludge and mud just to find that part you think you need.
After a exhausting walk thru the rows of stacked cars and trucks you find the car or the truck you were looking for and then you find that it does not have the part.
The bad part is this place uses computers to look if they have the cars and they don't ever add to the list for that car if something has been sold.
Their prices are also very high for used parts they quoted me $400 for a door for my 2000 Beetle with no mirror and no door panel I left and picked one at Pull A Part that was 10 minutes away for $46.50 for the complete door.the same color as mine in fantastic shape.
I gave this yard 5 different chances and they blew it every time horribly, I will never return.
Travis Thomas
Rated this company 1/5
Wouldn't wasted time here paid $500 for a job that wasn't properly done, than took it back next day they act like they was gonna to fix it right this time than they call me back the next day to tell me it wasn't nothing they can do and to pick it up so they took my $ for a incomplete job. I am shock at this unprofessional auto shop…
Adam Hoffer
Rated this company 5/5
Ju-Ju was awesome to work with, and the guys out in the yard were friendly and very helpful! I'll definitely be calling there first when I need auto parts
Express One Motors
Rated this company 1/5
Bad customer service, selling defected parts and refuse to give the refund. The worst parts store ever.