Matthews Foreign Car Part is a self-service auto salvage yard in Birmingham. Located at 1221 2nd Avenue North, it lets customers browse and remove parts from foreign cars on their own. The yard focuses on European and Asian vehicles, making it a good place to find parts for older or less common imports.
Hours are Monday through Thursday, 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM. The yard is closed on Fridays, weekends, and holidays.
How It Works & What to Expect
This is a self-service yard, meaning you find and remove parts yourself. The inventory includes parts from foreign cars—European and Asian models—so it’s useful for repairs on less common vehicles.
Finding and Removing Parts
Once inside, you search for the parts you need. Basic tools are usually available, but some customers bring their own. You’ll remove the part yourself—the yard doesn’t disassemble anything for you. After you’ve picked what you need, you pay at the front office.
What to Bring
Tools (if you don’t want to use the yard’s)
Vehicle info (VIN or make/model) if you need help finding a part
Cash or a payment method the yard accepts (call ahead to check)
A way to haul parts (some are heavy or bulky)
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Parts Available
The yard carries foreign car parts, including:
Engines and transmissions
Body panels and bumpers
Interior parts (seats, dashboards, door panels)
Electrical components (wiring, sensors, lights)
Suspension and drivetrain parts
Since it’s a salvage yard, stock changes often. Call or check the website for updates.
Selling a Junk Car
If you’ve got an old foreign car taking up space, some Birmingham salvage yards buy them for parts. You can get a quote to see what yours is worth.
Location & Hours
Matthews Foreign Car Part is at 1221 2nd Avenue North, Birmingham, AL 35203. The yard is open Monday through Thursday, 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM. It’s closed on Fridays, weekends, and holidays.
Getting There
The yard is easy to reach from Birmingham’s main roads. Take the 2nd Avenue North exit from I-65 and follow the signs. There’s parking on-site for customers.
Contact Info
Phone: (205) 251-5800
Website: Not listed (call for inventory or hours)
Video Tour
This video gives a quick look at the yard and the types of vehicles and parts you’ll find. It was filmed by a local dealership but still helps first-time visitors.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the hours at Matthews Foreign Car Part?
The yard is open Monday through Thursday, 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM. It’s closed on Fridays, weekends, and holidays.
Does Matthews Foreign Car Part buy junk cars?
The yard doesn’t advertise buying junk cars, but many salvage yards in Birmingham do. If you’ve got an old foreign car, you can get a quote to see if it’s worth selling.
What kind of parts can I find here?
The yard specializes in foreign car parts, including engines, transmissions, body panels, interior components, electrical parts, and suspension/drivetrain pieces. Inventory changes often, so call ahead or check the website for updates.
How does self-service salvage work?
You enter the yard, find the part you need, and remove it yourself using the tools provided. Payment is made at the front office after you’ve picked your parts. The yard doesn’t disassemble anything for you.
Do I need to bring my own tools?
The yard usually has basic tools, but you’re welcome to bring your own. Ask staff when you arrive to confirm what’s available.
Is there an entry fee?
There’s no public info on an entry fee. You typically pay only for the parts you take. Call ahead to double-check before visiting.
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reviewsReviews
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Randolph McArthurGoogle
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3 years ago
Richard’s been my go-to for parts for over 20 years now. Whether it’s a rare original piece or something new, he’s got it—or knows how to track it down. The prices are solid, and he’s always straight with you. Today, I found a part I’d given up on ever seeing again, and at a price that made sense. If you’re working on an import, start here.
Jennifer RobinsonGoogle
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5 years ago
First time ordering from them, and David made it so easy. The guy was patient, answered all my questions about my Triumph Spitfire parts, and didn’t rush me through anything. Honestly, I was expecting to have to hunt around for what I needed, but he had it all figured out. Won’t be my last order—already planning my next one.
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Brandi PGoogle
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5 years ago
Saved my weekend—had a last-minute issue with my ’87 Alfa Romeo, and these guys had the exact part I needed. Didn’t just hand it over, either; they double-checked everything to make sure it was right. Fast, fair, and no hassle. I’ll be back next time something breaks.
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James TrunzlerGoogle
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10 years ago
Every time I need something for my car, I end up calling Matthews—been doing it for years now. Richard, Tim, and David actually *know* their stuff, especially with European parts. You tell them what you’re looking for, and they either have it or know where to get it. And if they’ve got it? You’ll have it in your hands the next day. No nonsense, just good service. If you’re working on an import, these guys are the ones to call.
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Bradley ChampionGoogle
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11 years ago
You won’t find better than Matthews for foreign car parts. I’ve been buying from them for 20 years now, mostly for my ’82 Fiat Spider, and they’ve *always* come through. Richard and Tim? They’ll dig up whatever you need, even if it’s obscure. Prices are fair, and they don’t waste your time. Seriously, if you’re stuck on a part, call them. They’re the real deal.
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