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West Side Auto Parts: Bloomington, IN’s Premier Salvage Yard

West Side Auto Parts operates as Bloomington’s trusted self-service salvage yard, offering affordable used auto parts for domestic and foreign vehicles. As part of JB’s Salvage, a certified Women’s Business Enterprise (WBE) with over 40 years in the industry, this local yard has become a go-to destination for budget-conscious car owners and DIY mechanics throughout Monroe County.

Located at 1803 Fountain Dr, Bloomington, IN 47404, West Side Auto Parts specializes in affordable used auto parts and structural steel materials, with a pull-a-part system that puts savings directly in customers’ hands.

Establishment and History

West Side Auto Parts functions as a division of JB’s Salvage, a locally owned business that has proudly served the Bloomington area for more than four decades. Established as a Women’s Business Enterprise (WBE), the company has built a strong reputation in Monroe County for:

• Junk car buying: Purchasing end-of-life vehicles directly from the public
• Metal recycling: Processing ferrous and non-ferrous metals
• Parts resale: Offering affordable used auto parts through their self-service yard

The business model focuses on cutting out middlemen, allowing them to pay more for junk cars while selling parts at significantly lower prices than retail alternatives. Their long-standing presence in the community reflects their commitment to environmental compliance and customer service.

Services Provided

West Side Auto Parts follows a traditional self-service model where customers locate and extract parts themselves. Unlike some yards that offer part shipping or whole vehicle sales, they focus exclusively on in-yard part sales and scrap metal recycling, with no whole vehicle resale.

For industrial or commercial customers, they provide roll-off containers in 20, 30, and 40-yard sizes, with same-day service available. The business has been operational since 1997, with annual revenue estimated at $157,141 and a small staff of approximately 3 employees.

Vehicle Types Available

West Side Auto Parts maintains a diverse inventory that includes domestic, foreign, and import vehicles. The salvage yard features a rotating selection of light trucks, SUVs, sedans, and vans to provide parts for various makes and models.

While specific inventory details aren’t published online, the yard stocks vehicles that provide commonly needed parts such as:

• Engines and transmissions for various makes
• Body panels including fenders, doors, and trunk lids
• Wheels and tires across multiple sizes and styles
• Glass, lighting, and interior parts for many vehicle types

The inventory regularly changes as new vehicles arrive and parts are purchased, making each visit potentially different from the last. For precise compatibility information, customers should contact the facility directly at (812) 323–2886.

Most Popular Auto Parts

West Side Auto Parts, like most salvage yards in Indiana, sees consistent demand for specific high-value parts that are expensive to replace new but retain good function when used. Based on industry patterns, these are the most frequently purchased items:

Drivetrain Parts

• Engines: Complete motors or partial assemblies
• Transmissions: Both automatic and manual options
• Transfer cases: For 4WD vehicles
• Axles and drive shafts: Critical suspension elements

Body and Structural Parts

• Doors and fenders: Often sought for collision repairs
• Bumpers: Both front and rear assemblies
• Used car hoods: Popular for replacing damaged front ends
• Interior components: Seats, dash panels, and trim pieces

Electrical Systems

• Starters and alternators: Commonly rebuilt
• Engine computers (ECUs): High-value electronic parts
• Light assemblies: Headlights and taillights

Wheels and Suspension

• Wheels and tires: Always in demand
• Suspension parts: Struts, shocks, control arms

These high-value items represent significant savings over new retail pricing, making them the main draw for cost-conscious DIY mechanics and repair shops looking to reduce expenses while maintaining quality.

Service Area

West Side Auto Parts serves customers primarily from Bloomington and the surrounding areas. Based on proximity and regional demographics, their customer base typically includes residents from:

1. Ellettsville – Immediate northwest neighbor of Bloomington
2. Nashville – Artistic community east of Bloomington
3. Spencer – Town with revitalized downtown northwest of Bloomington
4. Bedford – Larger community known for limestone quarries
5. Martinsville – Northern neighbor with industrial activity

These communities represent a mix of residential, agricultural, and commercial interests, with many residents relying on affordable auto parts to maintain vehicles essential for work and daily life.

Junkyard Interchange System

At West Side Auto Parts, the process for finding compatible parts across different vehicle models is primarily hands-on rather than digital. While larger national chains like Pull-A-Part offer sophisticated online interchange systems, West Side takes a more traditional approach:

• Staff Assistance: Employees can help identify parts that may fit across different makes and models based on their experience
• Self-Service Identification: Customers primarily rely on their own knowledge to identify compatible parts
• In-Person Inspection: The yard encourages direct examination of parts to determine fit and compatibility

This traditional approach aligns with their simple self-service model, though it requires customers to have some basic knowledge about vehicle parts interchange or be willing to research compatibility before visiting.

Hours of Operation

West Side Auto Parts at 1803 Fountain Dr, Bloomington, IN 47404 operates under JB’s Salvage with the following hours:

• Monday to Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Saturday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
• Sunday: Closed

They offer same-day service for recycled automotive parts and scrap metal, with phone support available during business hours at 812–332–0606.

Tools Required for Part Removal

When visiting West Side Auto Parts to pull your own parts, bringing the right tools is essential for a successful trip. The yard operates on a traditional self-service model where customers are expected to bring their own tools.

Essential Tools by Part Type

For Engine/Transmission Removal:
– Socket set (both metric and standard sizes)
– Breaker bar for stubborn bolts
– Pry bar for separating components
– Extended wrenches for hard-to-reach areas

For Body Panels:
– Flathead and Phillips screwdrivers for trim removal
– Rubber mallet for gentle panel removal
– Pry tool for clips and fasteners

For Electrical Parts:
– Wire cutters and needle-nose pliers for disconnecting wiring
– Torx screwdrivers for electronic modules

For Wheels and Suspension:
– Lug wrench specific to your vehicle
– Adjustable wrench for suspension bolts
– Hammer for stubborn parts

General Recommendations

• Bring plastic bags and markers to organize small parts and fasteners
• Wear work gloves for protection
• Use a headlamp or flashlight for better visibility in tight spaces
• Bring penetrating oil (like WD–40) for rusted bolts

The salvage yard does not provide tools, so arriving prepared will save you time and frustration. For structural steel needs, different tools may be required depending on your project.

Cash for Junk Cars Program

West Side Auto Parts, operating under JB’s Salvage, actively buys junk cars from the public, offering competitive cash payments with no middlemen involved. Their junk car purchase program features several key benefits:

• Vehicle Condition Acceptance: They buy cars in any condition – running or not
• Free Towing Service: Complimentary towing for non-running vehicles within the local area
• Direct Payment: Cash offered on-site without third-party involvement
• Environmental Compliance: All vehicles are recycled according to Indiana regulations, with proper fluid drainage and disposal

If you’re looking to get cash for your junk car in the Bloomington area, contact them at (812) 332–0606 during business hours for a quote. The process is typically completed same-day, making it one of the fastest ways to turn an unwanted vehicle into cash.

Entry Fee Information

West Side Auto Parts in Bloomington does not mention a cover fee for yard entry in its publicly available materials. Unlike some national chain salvage yards that charge admission, this local yard appears to focus on per-part pricing rather than entry fees.

No specific discounts or promotions are advertised in available information, though the business emphasizes competitive pricing for used parts compared to new retail prices. For confirmation about current pricing policies, contacting the yard directly at (812) 323–2886 is recommended.

Common Questions About West Side Auto Parts

1. What types of automotive parts are available?

West Side Auto Parts specializes in used domestic and foreign auto parts including engines, transmissions, fenders, bumpers, headlights, tail lights, doors, trunk lids, tires, wheels, auto glass, and radiators. They also stock structural steel components like angle iron, box tubing, and expanded metal sheeting, with both new and used options available for fabrication projects.

2. How does the selling process work for junk cars?

Sellers deal directly with the yard without intermediaries. The process includes:
– Direct purchase with no hidden fees or third-party involvement
– Free towing for non-running vehicles
– Fluid drainage and recycling following Indiana environmental regulations
After purchase, vehicles are dismantled for parts and recycled responsibly.

3. Do they sell new parts?

Yes, West Side Auto Parts stocks new structural steel products including:
– Channel and angle iron
– Box tubing
– Flat steel sheeting
– Expanded metal sheeting
These materials cater to fabrication projects, alongside their used automotive parts inventory.

4. What metals do they accept for recycling?

The business accepts ferrous and non-ferrous metals including:
– #1 Copper
– Aluminum cans
– Cast aluminum
– Tin cans
– Yellow brass
They also recycle junk cars and industrial scrap, with roll-off container service available for large quantities.

5. Are there volume services for businesses?

While specific discount programs aren’t detailed, the yard offers:
– Roll-off containers in 20-, 30-, and 40-yard sizes for industrial and commercial clients
– Special rates for clean fill or compostable materials
– Same-day service for scrap metal pickup

6. What are the business hours?

• Monday–Friday: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• Saturday: 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM
• Sunday: Closed

7. Do they have a warranty on used parts?

The available sources don’t specify warranty information for West Side Auto Parts. For the most current warranty policies, customers should contact the yard directly at (812) 323–2886.

Final Thoughts

West Side Auto Parts in Bloomington, Indiana offers an affordable solution for auto parts and scrap metal recycling needs. As a Women’s Business Enterprise with over 40 years in the industry, they’ve established themselves as a trusted resource for DIY mechanics and budget-conscious car owners throughout Monroe County.

Their self-service model allows customers to find exactly what they need at significantly lower prices than retail alternatives, while their junk car buying program provides a straightforward way to dispose of unwanted vehicles for cash. By focusing on direct customer service and cutting out middlemen, West Side Auto Parts continues to be a valuable resource for the Bloomington community.

For more information or to check current inventory, visit their location at 1803 Fountain Dr or call (812) 323–2886 during business hours.

West Side Auto Parts is located at 1803 Fountain Dr in Bloomington, Indiana and has been servicing the area since 1990. The store stocks a wide variety of car parts, ranging from new and used pieces to salvaged and scrap metal parts.

Customers can find everything they need for their vehicle maintenance, repairs, or upgrades here. West Side Auto Parts is committed to offering only high-quality products that are built with superior craftsmanship and backed by knowledgeable staff who are always standing by to help customers with any questions or concerns.

In addition to these parts, the store also offers a junkyard where customers can pick up pre-owned car parts at a fraction of their original cost. The yard is organized into sections so customers can easily find what they're looking for without having to search through piles of old car parts. West Side Auto Parts provides convenience and reliability as well as outstanding customer service which makes it an ideal place for locals to get all their automotive needs fulfilled in one place.

Real customer testimonials

Amanda Knowland

Rated this company 1/5

Well they supposed to fix my oil pan and something else not even a week later my car started leaking oil again In the same place and the other leak was leaking in the same place also and charged 400 for labor 100 pure hour.

Andrew Vieira

Rated this company 5/5

Love this place. Great customer service friendly and very helpful.

Rachel Crouch

Rated this company 1/5

I bought a side mirror for my son's blazer and got charged 20 bucks. I thought it was a bit pricey myself but maybe not.

Dustin Gray

Rated this company 5/5

Great place to find used car and truck parts, used tires, and metal for projects. Great staff!

Shorty Abel

Rated this company 4/5

Friendly Staff, Good4Cheap Parts