Alter Metal Recycling - Dubuque at 8500 Old Hwy Rd, Dubuque, IA 52002
Alter Metal Recycling is a family-owned auto salvage yard and scrap metal recycler in Dubuque, Iowa. Open since 1947, the business operates at 8500 Old Hwy Rd, offering a self-service u-pull-it area for used auto parts and scrap metal recycling. Customers can browse and remove parts from salvaged vehicles or buy pre-pulled components. The yard also processes scrap metal, sorting and recycling materials according to industry standards.
Services & What to Expect
Alter Metal Recycling offers two main services: a self-service auto salvage yard and scrap metal recycling. The u-pull-it area lets customers find and remove parts from junked vehicles using their own tools or rented ones. Common parts available include engines, transmissions, body panels, interior components, and tires. Pre-pulled parts are also sold after inspection.
Self-Service Salvage Process
To use the self-service area, follow these steps:
- Bring your own tools or rent from the yard (check availability first)
- Find the vehicle with the part you need
- Remove the part yourself (staff may help with heavy components for a fee)
- Pay for the part by weight or at the listed price for pre-pulled parts
The yard does not tow vehicles or deliver parts.
Scrap Metal Recycling
Alter Metal Recycling accepts ferrous and non-ferrous metals, including:
- Copper
- Aluminum
- Steel
- Brass
- Stainless steel
- Lead
Metals are sorted and processed for recycling. The yard follows safety protocols for handling hazardous materials in scrap.
Part Warranties & Quality
All used auto parts come with a 90-day warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. This does not apply to damage from installation. The warranty starts at purchase and requires proof of sale.
What’s Not Offered
The yard does not provide:
- Online part catalogs or inventory searches
- Part delivery or shipping
- Vehicle inspections or appraisals
While Alter Metal Recycling may take junk cars for scrap, they don’t advertise this service. Call (563) 583-1731 to check availability and pricing.
Location & Hours
Alter Metal Recycling is at 8500 Old Hwy Rd, Dubuque, IA 52002, about 5 miles northwest of downtown. Nearby landmarks include Interstate 280 (2 miles east) and Dubuque Regional Airport (3 miles south). The yard is visible from the road with a marked entrance. Use the address for GPS: 8500 Old Hwy Rd, Dubuque, IA 52002.
Business Hours
| Day | Hours |
| Monday | 7:30 AM - 3:30 PM |
| Tuesday | 7:30 AM - 3:30 PM |
| Wednesday | 7:30 AM - 3:30 PM |
| Thursday | 7:30 AM - 3:30 PM |
| Friday | Closed |
| Saturday | Closed |
| Sunday | Closed |
The yard follows Central Time. Hours may change during holidays or bad weather. Call (563) 583-1731 before visiting to confirm.
Contact Information
Phone: (563) 583-1731
Website: altertrading.com Facebook: Alter Trading Twitter: @AlterTrading
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the hours for Alter Metal Recycling in Dubuque?
The yard is open Monday through Thursday from 7:30 AM to 3:30 PM (Central Time). It’s closed Fridays, weekends, and holidays. Call (563) 583-1731 to check hours, especially during bad weather or holidays.
Does Alter Metal Recycling buy junk cars?
Alter Metal Recycling focuses on scrap metal recycling and used auto parts. While they may take vehicles for scrap, they don’t advertise a junk car buying service. Call (563) 583-1731 to ask about vehicle acceptance and pricing.
What kind of parts can I find at Alter Metal Recycling?
The salvage yard offers a variety of used auto parts, such as:
- Engines and transmissions
- Body panels (doors, hoods, fenders, quarter panels)
- Interior parts (seats, dashboards, consoles)
- Suspension and steering components (control arms, ball joints, tie rods)
- Braking system parts (calipers, rotors, brake pads)
- Electrical parts (alternators, starters, wiring harnesses)
- Exhaust systems
- Tires and wheels
Inventory changes daily as vehicles are added or removed. Pre-pulled parts are also available for immediate purchase.
How does self-service auto salvage work at Alter Metal Recycling?
To use the self-service area:
- Visit during business hours (Monday–Thursday, 7:30 AM–3:30 PM).
- Find the vehicle with your needed part (no online inventory is available).
- Use your own tools or rent from the yard (availability varies).
- Remove the part yourself or with staff help (fee may apply for heavy parts).
- Pay by weight or at the listed price for pre-pulled parts.
- All sales are final, and parts are sold "as-is" with no returns.
The yard does not deliver or ship parts.
Are there any rules for removing parts at Alter Metal Recycling?
Yes, the yard has a few key rules:
- You must remove parts yourself or with staff assistance (fee may apply).
- No cutting or welding without prior approval.
- Remove parts safely to avoid damaging other vehicles or the yard.
- Dispose of fluids or hazardous materials from removed parts yourself.
- The yard can refuse service to anyone breaking these rules or acting unsafely.
Follow staff instructions and wear gloves and eye protection while working.
Does Alter Metal Recycling ship or deliver parts?
No, the yard does not offer part delivery or shipping. Customers must transport parts themselves after purchase. For shipping options, check other u-pull-it yards like U-Pull-It or US Car Junker .
