Zimmerman Recycling at 301 Industrial Dr, DeKalb, IL 60115
Zimmerman Recycling is a self-service auto salvage yard at 301 Industrial Dr in DeKalb. The yard lets customers find and remove their own used auto parts from dismantled vehicles. It follows standard junkyard hours, with longer weekday shifts and shorter Saturday hours. The business handles both vehicle dismantling and scrap metal recycling. Customers should bring their own tools and check part availability before visiting, as stock changes often.
Services & What to Expect
Zimmerman Recycling is a traditional self-service salvage yard. Customers can enter during open hours to search for parts from wrecked vehicles. The yard doesn’t offer professional part removal—visitors must locate and extract parts themselves using their own tools.
What Parts Are Available?
The yard typically carries common auto parts, including:
- Engines and transmissions
- Body panels (doors, fenders, hoods)
- Suspension parts (control arms, struts, shocks)
- Braking components (calipers, rotors, brake pads)
- Interior pieces (seats, dashboards, trim)
- Electrical parts (wiring harnesses, alternators, starters)
- Exhaust systems (manifolds, catalytic converters, mufflers)
Inventory changes daily as vehicles are dismantled. Popular parts may sell out quickly.
How Self-Service Works
To use Zimmerman Recycling’s self-service system:
- Visit during open hours (no appointment needed)
- Find the part you need by walking the yard (parts may be organized by vehicle make, model, or type)
- Remove the part using your own tools (wrenches, cutting torches, etc.)
- Pay at the office (cash or card, depending on policy)
- Leave the vehicle frame if required (some yards charge a core fee for certain parts)
Always check for:
- Rust or damage that could affect the part’s use
- Matching VIN numbers on critical safety parts (airbags, frame components)
- Local laws on part removal (some states require salvage titles for certain transactions)
Other Services
While mostly self-service, Zimmerman Recycling may also:
- Take scrap metal for recycling (check current prices)
- Charge core fees for parts like engines or transmissions ($20–$50)
- Offer basic vehicle dismantling for customers who need parts removed professionally
For selling a junk car or scrap metal, contact
local cash-for-junk-cars services in DeKalb for fair rates.
Location & Hours
Address: 301 Industrial Dr, DeKalb, IL 60115
Phone: (815) 756-8600
Operating Hours
| Day | Open | Close |
| Monday | 7:00 AM | 4:30 PM |
| Tuesday | 7:00 AM | 4:30 PM |
| Wednesday | 7:00 AM | 4:30 PM |
| Thursday | 7:00 AM | 4:30 PM |
| Friday | 7:00 AM | 4:30 PM |
| Saturday | 7:00 AM | 2:00 PM |
| Sunday | Closed | Closed |
Directions & Tips
The yard is in DeKalb’s industrial area, near:
- Interstate 88 (about 5 miles east)
- Northern Illinois University (roughly 3 miles south)
- Local auto repair shops and scrap metal buyers
Visitor Tips: - Go early on Saturdays (shorter hours, busier)
- Call ahead if checking part availability from out of town
- Wear sturdy shoes and gloves (yards can be rough)
- Watch for restricted areas—some sections may be off-limits
For traffic updates, check DeKalb County’s website .
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the hours for Zimmerman Recycling?
The yard is open Monday to Friday from 7:00 AM to 4:30 PM and Saturday from 7:00 AM to 2:00 PM. It’s closed Sundays. Hours stay the same year-round.
Does Zimmerman Recycling buy junk cars?
The business doesn’t list junk car purchases. For selling a junk car or scrap metal, contact local cash-for-junk-cars services in DeKalb for quotes.
What kind of parts can I find at Zimmerman Recycling?
The yard carries common used auto parts like engines, transmissions, body panels, suspension components, braking systems, interior parts, and electrical components. Inventory changes as vehicles are dismantled. High-demand parts may sell out fast.
How does self-service auto salvage work at Zimmerman Recycling?
Customers enter during open hours, find the part they need, and remove it with their own tools. Payment is made at the office after removal. No professional extraction services are offered. Always check part condition and compatibility before buying.
Do I need to bring my own tools?
Yes, Zimmerman Recycling is self-service. Customers must supply their own tools, like wrenches, sockets, pry bars, or cutting torches for welded parts.
Are there any fees besides the part price?
Some salvage yards charge core fees for parts like engines or transmissions ($20–$50). Zimmerman Recycling may have similar fees, but they aren’t listed publicly. Always ask about extra charges before removing a part.
Recent News & Updates
Zimmerman Recycling hasn’t posted recent updates or press releases. The business is listed in scrap metal and auto salvage directories, showing it’s still operating, but no major changes (like expanded hours or new services) have been reported in the past year.
For the latest details, visitors should:
- Check the yard’s signs for temporary closures or special hours
- Call (815) 756-8600 to confirm part availability
- Monitor local DeKalb business listings for updates
