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Pick-A-Part Jalopy Jungle: Boise’s Premier Self-Service Auto Salvage Yard
Located at 5501 W State St, Boise, ID 83703, Pick-A-Part Jalopy Jungle has established itself as Idaho’s largest independent auto recycling group, serving Boise and surrounding areas with thousands of vehicles and affordable used auto parts. This comprehensive guide explores everything you need to know about this popular self-service junkyard.
Establishment and Operations
Pick-A-Part Jalopy Jungle is led by Mark Salvi, the current President who brings over 15 years of experience to the auto recycling industry. Under his leadership, the company has expanded across the Treasure and Magic Valley regions, becoming a go-to destination for affordable auto parts in Idaho.
The business follows a self-serve model, storing thousands of vehicles on stands organized by manufacturer. This approach allows customers to find exactly what they need while keeping prices significantly lower than traditional auto parts retailers.
ID 83703
(208) 853–7266
Services Provided
| Service | Description |
|---|---|
| Self-Service Parts Yard | Customers locate and remove parts themselves using their own tools. The yard is organized by make and model for efficient browsing. |
| Cash for Junk Cars | They buy vehicles in any condition, offering free towing and immediate cash payouts following a quick evaluation. |
| Inventory System | Online searchable inventory updated daily at midnight, allowing customers to check for specific vehicle makes/models before visiting. |
| Heavy Part Assistance | Staff provides lifts for removing heavy parts like engines, transmissions, and truck beds. |
| Environmental Recycling | Responsible recycling of metals and reuse of functional auto parts to reduce waste and environmental impact. |
Pick-A-Part Jalopy Jungle specializes in used auto parts at discounted prices. Customers search for and remove parts themselves, requiring their own tools and labor. The yard is noted for its organization and cleanliness, with a vast inventory of vehicles (including rare and older models) to facilitate part retrieval.
Instead of keeping an inventory of individual parts, they organize vehicles on stands, making it easier for customers to access components underneath. This self-service approach is what allows them to offer parts at prices 50–75% lower than traditional auto parts stores or dealerships.
For those looking to sell unwanted vehicles, their cash-for-cars program offers competitive rates with free towing for non-running vehicles. This service includes a streamlined evaluation process with instant cash payouts, making it convenient for those looking to dispose of junk cars.
Vehicle Types Available
Pick-A-Part Jalopy Jungle offers a diverse inventory of salvage vehicles spanning dozens of automotive makes, including luxury brands, trucks, SUVs, and niche models. Their selection includes:
- Luxury/Premium Brands: Audi, BMW, Jaguar, Land Rover, Lexus, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche
- General Auto Brands: Chevrolet, Ford, Honda, Toyota, Nissan, Jeep
- Less Common Makes: Alfa Romeo, Saab, Volvo, Suzuki, Datsun, Triumph
- Full-Size Trucks and SUVs: Chevrolet Silverado, Dodge Ram, Ford trucks, GMC models
The yard features both sedans, trucks, and SUVs, with examples like Chevrolet Silverado (listed under variations like CK1500, C1500, K1500), Dodge Ram (D150, Ram1500), and Acura models such as RDX or TL.
While the inventory often includes older models (as mentioned in customer testimonials about finding parts for vehicles like a 1988 car), daily updates ensure a mix of newer and used vehicles. The yard does not explicitly filter by year, but late-model vehicles are available due to their daily inventory refreshes.
For those looking for quality used suspension parts at a salvage yard, this diverse inventory ensures you’ll likely find what you need for most makes and models.
Popular Auto Parts
Based on operational practices and customer testimonials, the following parts are frequently sought after at Pick-A-Part Jalopy Jungle:
- Engines and Transmissions
These major powertrain parts are in high demand for cost-effective repairs. Customers often inspect multiple vehicles to find compatible units for older models, particularly for discontinued or hard-to-find parts.
- Wheels and Tires
Full-size trucks, SUVs, and vans often have wheels/tires that are reused for replacements or upgrades. The yard’s emphasis on checking vehicle variations (e.g., Chevrolet Silverado vs. CK1500) highlights the diversity of these parts.
- Suspension and Steering Parts
Control arms, struts, shocks, and driveshafts are common due to their durability and high replacement costs when new. The yard’s organization aids in locating these parts efficiently.
- Body Panels and Trim
Bumpers, fenders, doors, and grilles are frequently purchased for aesthetic or structural repairs. Customers often visit to replace damaged exterior parts at lower costs.
If you’re looking for affordable options for exterior damage, you might want to check out how to find a used car hood for sale at local junkyards.
- Seats and Interior Parts
Salvaged seats, dashboards, and electronics (e.g., headunits, sensors) are sought for upgrading or restoring older vehicles.
- Powertrain Ancillaries
Alternators, starters, and air compressors are popular due to their high new-part prices and compatibility across similar models.
The yard’s policy of not guaranteeing specific parts availability necessitates a hands-on search by customers. Older vehicles (e.g., pre–1995) are preserved longer, making them a resource for obsolete parts. Prices for used parts are often half those of competitors, driving demand for expensive parts.
Auto Parts Pricing
Based on available information, Pick-A-Part Jalopy Jungle does not publicly list prices for individual auto parts in their search results or website content. However, key insights about their pricing structure and operations can be derived:
General Pricing Strategy
- Below-market rates: Customers report paying half the cost of competitors for comparable parts.
- No published price lists: Prices are determined at the point of sale, requiring in-person or phone inquiries.
Operational Details
- Entrance fee: $1 admission per person (includes access to facilities and basic tools like bolts/clips).
- Self-service model: Requires bringing personal tools to remove parts.
- Inventory access:
- Online search: Customers can filter vehicles by make/model/year across 6 Idaho locations (Boise, Caldwell, Nampa, etc.).
- Daily updates: New vehicles are added daily, with inventory refreshed at midnight.
For specific pricing queries, contact the Boise location directly (208–853–7266) or visit in person. Prices vary by part type, vehicle age, and availability.
Service Area
Customers travel from throughout the Treasure Valley to visit Pick-A-Part Jalopy Jungle for affordable used auto parts. Key nearby cities include:
- Meridian: A suburban area known for its community-driven atmosphere, parks, and retail hubs like The Village at Meridian.
- Eagle: An affluent suburban city with amenities catering to families and professionals seeking a quieter environment.
- Garden City: A neighboring city with a mix of residential and commercial areas, offering proximity to Boise.
- Nampa: Idaho’s second-largest city, providing access to a larger population base and automotive needs.
- Caldwell: A growing suburban area with a diverse community and proximity to Boise’s automotive services.
- Kuna: A smaller town offering affordability and suburban living, attracting residents from surrounding regions.
- Star: A rural-suburban community with increasing residential development, possibly drawing customers seeking budget-friendly parts.
- Middleton: A smaller suburb with a family-friendly environment, likely attracting residents from nearby areas.
These cities represent key population centers and residential hubs around Boise, making them primary sources of customers for auto parts. You can find more information about other junkyards in Idaho if you’re looking to compare options.
Part Compatibility System
Pick-A-Part Jalopy Jungle employs a vehicle-focused inventory system and manual assistance to help customers identify compatible used auto parts, rather than a traditional parts interchange database. Here’s how their process works:
Search Tools and Staff Assistance
- Online Vehicle Search: Customers can use their inventory search tool to filter by location, make, model, and year before visiting. While this doesn’t list specific parts, it narrows down vehicles that may contain compatible parts.
- Staff-Guided Manual Search: Upon arrival, staff provides tickets listing multiple vehicles matching the customer’s target year/make. For example, one customer received four potential matches after contacting the staff.
Organized Yard Layout
The yard is structured to facilitate self-service part identification, though it requires hands-on inspection. Customers must:
– Bring their own tools to remove parts.
– Physically check each vehicle listed on their ticket.
This approach is particularly effective for older or niche vehicles, as seen in a case where an 1988 car (beyond their typical 1995+ scrapping cutoff) retained needed parts.
Price and Quality Advocacy
By avoiding centralized inventory tracking, they maintain lower prices (often half the cost of competitors). Staff emphasizes guaranteed quality and cleanliness of organized vehicles, mitigating risks associated with salvage parts.
If you’re looking for specific parts like a used fuel pump at your local junkyard, this system helps ensure you can find compatible options despite the lack of a computerized interchange system.
Warranty Information
Pick-A-Part Jalopy Jungle offers a 60-day parts warranty with specific conditions outlined in their return policy. Here’s a breakdown of their warranty terms:
Warranty Duration and Coverage
- Standard Warranty: 60 days from purchase date for mismatched or defective parts.
- Return Process:
- Valid receipt required, dated within the 60-day window.
- Returned parts must be marked by staff during initial purchase.
- Returns only eligible for store credit, not cash refunds.
Additional Policies
- No Extended Warranties: There are no extended warranty options available.
- Part Marking Requirement: Employees must mark returned parts to validate returns.
- Costs: No explicit fees mentioned for warranty claims, as returns only provide store credit toward future purchases.
No information was found about location-specific variance, including the Boise address provided. The terms apply across all Idaho locations.
Entry Fee and Admission
Admission Fee
Pick-A-Part Jalopy Jungle charges a $1 entrance fee at their Boise location (5501 W State St), which must be paid in cash or debit card. This fee grants access to the salvage yard, restrooms, wheelbarrows, and basic tools like fuses/bolts.
Discounts
No evidence of discounted admission rates for specific groups (e.g., students, military) is stated in the provided materials. The $1 fee appears to be a universal charge for all visitors aged 16+.
Additional Requirements
– Age restriction: All visitors must be at least 16 years old.
– Tools: Customers must bring their own tools; none are provided.
– Return policy: Parts may be exchanged for store credit within 60 days if defective, but no cash refunds.
For precise details, contact the Boise location directly at (208) 853–7266.
Hours of Operation
Pick-A-Part Jalopy Jungle at 5501 W. State St., Boise, ID 83703 operates with the following schedule:
– Monday–Saturday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
– Sunday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
The location is open on weekends, including Sundays with reduced hours.
Tools and Equipment Needed
| Part Type | Tools Needed |
|---|---|
| Engines/Transmissions | Torque wrench, socket sets, breaker bar, block-and-tackle (yard provides lifts) |
| Brakes/Suspension | Pliers, screwdrivers, wrenches (e.g., C-clamps for brake line removal) |
| Exterior/Interior | Screwdrivers, upholstery tools, carpet knives, pry bars |
| Electrical Parts | Multimeter, wire strippers, heat shrink tubing, crimp tools |
| Tires/Wheels | Lug wrench, hydraulic jack (banned; use yard-provided stands instead) |
Customers must bring all tools required for part removal, as Pick-A-Part Jalopy Jungle does not provide tools. Essential additional items include:
- Battery-operated tools (e.g., cordless drill, saws)
- Wheelbarrow (provided by the yard)
- Safety gear: Steel-toe boots, goggles, gloves
- Light source: Flashlight or headlamp for visibility under vehicles
The yard offers basic support equipment but no handheld tools:
1. Lifts: For heavy parts like engines, transmissions, and truck beds
2. Stands: Vehicles are elevated on steel stands to eliminate need for jacks
3. Wheelbarrows: For transporting parts
4. Miscellaneous: Fuses, light bulbs, bolts, and clips (available at checkout)
Prohibited Items:
– Cutting torches, grinders, or open-flame tools
– Power tools requiring electricity (no outlets available)
Cash for Junk Cars
Yes, Pick-A-Part Jalopy Jungle at their Boise location (5501 W State St) actively buys vehicles from the general public. Their services include:
Cash-for-Cars Program
They offer immediate cash payments for vehicles, even those unable to be driven. Key features include:
– Free towing for non-running vehicles
– Quick evaluations (often completed in 5 minutes)
– No requirement for working or registered vehicles
Vehicle Acceptance Criteria
The facility purchases:
– Vehicles beyond repair or end-of-life
– Older cars (including those past 95 years old, as they delay crushing older models)
– All vehicle types regardless of make/model/year
– No restrictions mentioned for condition (implied by “sell your junk car” phrasing)
Process Overview
1. Free Evaluation: Contact via phone/email for instant quote
2. Towing Assistance: Free pickup for non-operational vehicles
3. On-Site Inspection: Thorough assessment to determine fair pricing
4. Immediate Payment: Cash transferred upon sale completion
For those considering selling their junk car, you might find helpful tips in this article about how to not let your junk car rust away and get cash for it.
News and Notable Information
Recent News
Boise Salvage Yard Responds to Auto Tariffs
A KIVI-TV article from April 3, 2025, highlights how Pick-A-Part Jalopy Jungle is addressing increased demand for used auto parts amid potential U.S. tariffs on foreign-made vehicles and parts. Mark Salvi, the company’s president, stated that prices will remain stable despite rising costs for new parts, emphasizing their commitment to affordability during economic uncertainty. Customers like Sidney, a Ford Ranger owner, are opting for salvaged parts to avoid higher costs, reflecting a broader shift toward recycling in the automotive industry.
Operational Details
– Locations: Operates in Boise, Nampa, Caldwell, Garden City, and Twin Falls, positioning itself as Idaho’s largest independent auto recycling group.
– Self-Service Model: Customers retrieve parts independently, with inventory updated daily—vehicles beyond repair or obsolete are crushed but older models (e.g., an ’88 car) may be retained for hard-to-find parts.
– Cash for Cars: Offers towing services and fair appraisal for non-running or unwanted vehicles in Boise, streamlining disposal processes.
Other Junkyards in Boise
Other junkyards near Pick-A-Part Jalopy Jungle in Boise include TNT Auto Salvage (6334 W Gowen Rd) and All Makes Auto Salvage LLC (4026 Banner St). Direct comparisons based on available data:
Key Differences
| Feature | Pick-A-Part Jalopy Jungle | TNT Auto Salvage/All Makes Auto Salvage |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Idaho’s largest independent auto recycling group with multiple Treasure Valley locations | Single-location operations |
| Selection | Organized inventory with vehicles up to ~1990s (not automatically crushed) | Unspecified inventory scope |
| Pricing | Often half the cost of competitors for similar parts | No specific pricing data available |
| Customer Service | Praised for friendly staff and part-finding assistance | No verified reviews in search results |
| Service Model | Self-service (bring tools, extract own parts) | Likely full-service (no info provided) |
Notes: TNT and All Makes may offer alternative purchasing methods (e.g., more online transactions or pickup/delivery options), but detailed comparisons require direct contact with these businesses. Pick-A-Part remains distinguished by its extensive verified customer reviews highlighting part availability, yard organization, and affordability.
Common Questions
- How much does it cost to enter Pick-A-Part Jalopy Jungle?
Admission is $1 per person, payable via cash or debit card. This fee grants access to the yard, including basic amenities like restrooms, wheelbarrows, and essential fasteners like fuses or bolts. Children under 16 are prohibited, and unattended minors are not allowed on premises.
- Do I need to bring my own tools?
Yes, customers must provide all tools for part removal. Pick-A-Part Jalopy Jungle does not supply tools, though they offer lifts for heavy parts like engines or transmissions. Toolboxes are subject to inspection upon entry and exit, and power tools requiring electricity are prohibited.
- Are the parts reliable and original?
Most parts are original manufacturer parts installed during vehicle assembly. This ensures compatibility and quality, though customers should inspect parts thoroughly before purchase.
- What if a part doesn’t work or fit properly?
A 60-day return policy allows exchanges or store credits (no cash refunds) if parts are returned with a valid receipt and proper markings by staff. Returning defective parts requires earmarked registration to facilitate the process.
- How are vehicles organized in the yard?
Vehicles are arranged by manufacturer in rows, with each placed on raised stands to simplify access to sub-frame parts. This system enables efficient browsing and minimizes physical strain during part removal.
- Does Pick-A-Part Jalopy Jungle buy cars?
Yes, they purchase vehicles regardless of operational status. While towing services are available, driving the car to the facility typically yields higher payment. Sellers must present a valid title, as registration alone is insufficient.
- Can I expect competitive pricing compared to dealers?
Prices are 50–75% lower than traditional dealers or auto parts suppliers. For example, a part costing $200 at a dealership might sell for $50–$100 here due to bulk salvaging and streamlined operations.
Whether you’re a DIY mechanic looking for affordable parts or someone with a junk car to sell, Pick-A-Part Jalopy Jungle offers a comprehensive solution for your automotive needs in Boise. With their organized yard, helpful staff, and commitment to recycling, they’ve established themselves as a valuable resource for the local community.
Pick-A-Part Jalopy Jungle is located at 5501 W State St, Boise, ID 83703 and is your one-stop shop for all of your car parts needs. With a massive collection of salvage yards, scrap metal dealers, used auto parts stores and junkyards, you are sure to find the perfect part for your vehicle. Pick-A-Part Jalopy Jungle offers customers competitive prices on top quality parts that have been tested and inspected to ensure their longevity and quality.
We also offer reusable parts that can be used in many different types of vehicles without sacrificing performance or reliability. Our knowledgeable staff will be more than happy to answer any questions you may have about our products or services. Whether you need a replacement part for an older model vehicle or just a basic part for a newer one, Pick-A-Part Jalopy Jungle is sure to have what you’re looking for! In addition to providing car parts, we are also committed to being eco-friendly.
We recycle scrap metals from our inventory as well as other materials so that we can help reduce landfill waste and ensure that our products are disposed of properly. We also take great pride in providing excellent customer service; no matter your needs, we will work hard to make sure you get the best possible solution! So if you’re looking for the best car parts store around with unbeatable prices and outstanding service, be sure to visit Pick-A-Part Jalopy Jungle at 5501 W State St in Boise today!
Real customer testimonials
Steven McIver
Excellent, my mini van broke down and was going to cost more to repair it than it was worth. Jalopy Jungle towed it to their yard and bought the van for a fair price. I have also bought many parts from them in the past for good prices. Great People !
Angie H
Surprisingly fun for the mom of three boys! We all went there in search of parts for a 4Runner. Helpful staff and quite the treasure hunt!
Md Touhidul Islam
I sold my totaled 1997 Toyota Camry for $225. They gave me the highest price for my camry. Their service is top notch in the town.
David Blomquist
Respectful staff, good deals here. Bring your own tools ☺️
Amanda
This place was such a surprise. I really did expect much but my husband found what he needed for only $11 when it would have cost $80 brand new elsewhere. Rows and rows off all kinds of cars. I might have to return to hunt for license plates from other states heehee.
