Mike Louis Salvage & Metal at 1901 E Lincoln Way, Ames, IA 50010
Mike Louis Salvage & Metal is a family-owned auto salvage yard in Ames. Since 1974, it’s been a go-to spot for used auto parts, scrap metal, and vehicle recycling. The yard is open for self-service salvage, meaning you can browse and pull parts on your own. They stock a wide range of automotive components—engines, transmissions, body panels—and scrap metal like steel beams and aluminum siding.
Services & What to Expect
Mike Louis Salvage & Metal runs as a self-service yard, so customers handle the searching and part removal themselves. The inventory includes used parts from different vehicle makes and models, including engines, transmissions, and body components. All parts are checked for basic functionality before being made available.
Self-Service Salvage Process
To salvage parts here, you’ll need to:
- Check if the yard is open—currently, it’s listed as closed, so call (515) 231-3319 first.
- Bring your own tools, as the yard doesn’t provide any.
- Pay for parts by weight or per item, depending on the agreement with staff.
- Remove the part yourself—staff may answer questions but don’t assist with removal.
The yard doesn’t offer towing or junk car pickup. If you need to sell a vehicle, look for a cash-for-cars service instead.
Scrap Metal & Recycling
Alongside auto parts, Mike Louis Salvage & Metal handles scrap metal recycling. Common items include:
- Steel beams and structural metal
- Aluminum siding and sheets
- Copper wiring and piping
- Other non-hazardous scrap metal
The business follows proper disposal practices for end-of-life vehicles, ensuring hazardous materials are removed and recycled correctly.
Location & Hours
Mike Louis Salvage & Metal is at 1901 E Lincoln Way, Ames, IA 50010. You can reach them by phone at (515) 231-3319, but call ahead to confirm if the yard is open—it’s currently listed as closed.
Directions
The salvage yard is on East Lincoln Way, near 30th Street. From downtown Ames, take US-30 East toward Lincoln Way, then turn right onto E Lincoln Way. The entrance is marked with signage for Mike Louis Salvage & Metal.
Nearby Attractions
Close by, you’ll find:
- Reiman Gardens (0.8 miles north)
- Ames Municipal Airport (1.5 miles west)
- Iowa State University (2.5 miles south)
- Local auto repair shops and parts stores within 5 miles
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the hours for Mike Louis Salvage & Metal?
The yard is currently listed as closed. Salvage yards often have irregular hours, so call (515) 231-3319 before visiting to check if it’s open.
Does Mike Louis Salvage & Metal buy junk cars?
No, the business doesn’t buy or tow junk cars. For selling a vehicle, try a cash-for-cars service instead.
What kind of parts can I find at Mike Louis Salvage & Metal?
The yard carries a variety of used auto parts, including:
- Engines and transmissions (domestic and foreign)
- Body panels (doors, hoods, fenders, bumpers)
- Suspension and drivetrain parts
- Interior parts (seats, dashboards, trim)
- Electrical components (wiring harnesses, alternators, starters)
Parts are sold as-is with no warranties. Inspect them carefully before buying.
How does self-service auto salvage work at Mike Louis Salvage & Metal?
Self-service means you find and remove parts yourself. Here’s how it works:
- Call ahead to confirm the yard is open.
- Search for the part you need—the yard isn’t always organized, so be ready to look.
- Use your own tools to remove the part (the yard doesn’t provide any).
- Pay by weight or per item, depending on the agreement with staff.
- Take the part with you—some yards require proof of purchase for removal.
Staff may answer questions but don’t help with part removal.
Are there any restrictions on what I can take from the yard?
The yard operates on a self-service basis, but some rules apply:
- Don’t remove hazardous materials (batteries, tires, fluids) without approval.
- Avoid parts from vehicles marked as "reserved" or "sold."
- Some yards limit parts per customer—ask staff if unsure.
- Don’t leave tools or equipment overnight.
Always check with staff before taking a part.
Does Mike Louis Salvage & Metal offer any warranties on parts?
No. All parts are sold as-is, with no returns, refunds, or warranties. Buyers take full responsibility for part condition and function.
