Lithia Volkswagen of Des Moines Parts Department - Johnston, IA
The Lithia Volkswagen of Des Moines Parts Department at 5200 Merle Hay Rd in Johnston, IA, offers a self-service salvage yard and parts counter for Volkswagen owners. Customers can buy new and used parts or pull their own from donated vehicles. The yard carries OEM Volkswagen parts, aftermarket components, and used parts from decommissioned cars. Unlike dealership parts counters, this location lets you inspect and remove parts yourself, often at lower cost.
Services & What to Expect
The Parts Department has two main areas: a parts counter and a self-service salvage yard (u-pull-it). At the counter, you can buy new OEM Volkswagen parts, aftermarket components, and accessories from staff. The salvage yard lets you browse and remove parts from donated VWs yourself, which is useful for finding affordable used parts or hard-to-find components.
Self-Service Salvage (U-Pull-It) Details
- How it works: You enter the yard, find the part you need, and remove it yourself. Basic tools and safety gear are usually provided on-site.
- What to bring:
- A valid photo ID (often required for entry)
- Your own tools (if you have them—basic tools are usually available)
- Payment (cash, credit, or debit card—some yards require a deposit for the lockout tool)
- Your vehicle’s year, make, and model (if you’re unsure what part you need)
- Payment: Parts are sold by the pound or by the part, depending on the yard’s policy. You pay at the exit.
- Vehicle access: The yard has various Volkswagen models, but inventory changes often as new donations come in.
Parts Counter Services
The parts counter stocks:
- Genuine OEM Volkswagen parts (new, factory-sourced components)
- Aftermarket parts (third-party brands that fit Volkswagen vehicles)
- Accessories (interior trim, exterior badges, performance upgrades)
- Labor services (some locations offer installation—ask staff)
Staff can help you find the right part for your vehicle’s year, model, and trim.
Getting Rid of an Old Volkswagen
If you have an old or non-running Volkswagen you no longer need, this location may take it for salvage. Selling a junk car to a salvage yard is a common way to recycle parts and get cash. Call the Parts Department at (515) 253-0333 to check their current vehicle donation policy, as acceptance depends on the car’s condition and demand for parts.
Location & Hours
The Lithia Volkswagen of Des Moines Parts Department and salvage yard is at:
5200 Merle Hay Rd, Suite #200, Johnston, IA 50131 Phone: (515) 253-0333
Website: volkswagenofdesmoines.com
Business Hours
| Day | Hours |
| Monday | 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Tuesday | 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Wednesday | 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Thursday | 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Friday | 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Saturday | 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM |
| Sunday | Closed |
Directions & Notes
The salvage yard is in Suite #200 of the dealership complex. Use the designated salvage yard entrance (not the main dealership doors). Parking is near the salvage yard gate. Outside tools aren’t allowed without approval. The yard is fenced, and access is controlled for safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the hours for Lithia Volkswagen of Des Moines Parts Department salvage yard?
The salvage yard follows the same hours as the Parts Department:
- Monday–Friday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Sunday: Closed
Arrive early to give yourself enough time to find and remove your part.
Does Lithia Volkswagen of Des Moines buy junk cars?
The Parts Department may accept vehicle donations for salvage, but it’s not guaranteed. Selling a junk car depends on the vehicle’s condition and demand for parts. Call (515) 253-0333 to check their current policy before bringing in a car.
What kind of parts can I find at the Lithia Volkswagen salvage yard?
The salvage yard has parts from donated VWs, including:
- Engines and transmissions
- Body panels (doors, hoods, fenders)
- Interior parts (seats, dashboards, trim)
- Suspension and drivetrain components
- Electrical parts (wiring harnesses, sensors)
- Exhaust systems
Inventory changes often, so call ahead if you’re looking for something specific.
How does self-service auto salvage work at Lithia Volkswagen?
The process is simple:
- Arrive during business hours and check in at the salvage yard office.
- Show your ID and pay any required deposit for the lockout tool.
- Enter the yard and find the part you need.
- Remove the part using the tools provided.
- Weigh the part (if sold by pound) or show it to staff for pricing.
- Pay for the part and return any borrowed tools before leaving.
Staff can help if you’re unsure which part you need.
Are there any restrictions on what I can remove from the salvage yard?
Yes. You can’t remove:
- Catalytic converters (often prohibited by law)
- Parts from vehicles not marked for salvage
- Parts marked as "reserved" or "sold"
- Anything beyond what’s needed to remove your paid-for part
Breaking these rules may get you banned from the yard.
Do I need to make an appointment to visit the salvage yard?
No appointments are needed. The yard operates on a first-come, first-served basis during business hours. Calling ahead can help confirm part availability or answer questions, though.
