Pat's Auto Salvage

Pat's Auto Salvage - Waterloo, Iowa

Pat's Auto Salvage is a self-service auto salvage yard in Waterloo, Iowa. Customers can find used auto parts, scrap metal, and vehicles for repair or recycling. The yard runs on a "u-pull-it" model, where you locate and remove parts yourself. It’s a good spot for DIY mechanics, car owners needing replacements, or those looking to get rid of old vehicles. The yard is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM and closed on weekends. Pat's Auto Salvage is at 945 Lowell Avenue in Waterloo, near the intersection of Lowell and East 10th Street.

Services & What to Expect

Pat's Auto Salvage is a self-service yard, meaning you handle the search and removal of parts on your own. The lot has wrecked, donated, and end-of-life vehicles, along with scrap metal and other automotive materials. You’ll find engines, transmissions, body panels, bumpers, and interior parts here. Tools and equipment are available on-site, though some customers bring their own.

The yard doesn’t offer professional disassembly or part removal. You locate the parts you need, pay by the pound for the vehicle or by the part, and take them yourself. This keeps costs low for customers while letting you get parts for a fraction of retail prices.

Pat's Auto Salvage also takes junk cars and scrap metal for recycling. If you have an old vehicle you no longer need, you can bring it in for disposal. For details on selling or getting rid of a junk car, visit the cash for junk cars page.

What to Bring

• A vehicle to haul parts (many are heavy and bulky)
• Basic tools (wrenches, sockets, pry bars) if you don’t plan to use the yard’s equipment
• Cash or a payment method the yard accepts (check their website for details)
• Gloves and safety gear (some parts may be sharp or dirty)
• A list of the parts you need (if you have one)

What to Know Before Visiting

• The yard is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It’s closed on weekends and Sundays.
• Follow safety rules, like wearing proper footwear and avoiding loose clothing.
• Some parts need cutting or disassembly—ask staff if you’re unsure how to remove a part safely.
• Prices are usually by the pound for vehicles or by the part. Check with staff for current rates before picking items.
• Parts are sold "as-is," so there are no warranties.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the hours for Pat's Auto Salvage?

Pat's Auto Salvage is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The yard is closed on weekends and Sundays. Call (319) 232-0704 to confirm before visiting.

Does Pat's Auto Salvage buy junk cars?

Yes, Pat's Auto Salvage takes junk cars for recycling. If you have an old vehicle you no longer need, you can bring it in for disposal. For more details, visit the cash for junk cars page.

What kind of parts can I find at Pat's Auto Salvage?

Pat's Auto Salvage has a wide range of used auto parts, including engines, transmissions, body panels, bumpers, doors, fenders, and interior parts like seats and dashboards. The yard also carries scrap metal and other automotive materials. All parts are sold "as-is," and you’re responsible for finding and removing them.

How does self-service auto salvage work at Pat's Auto Salvage?

At Pat's Auto Salvage, you search for and remove parts yourself. Bring tools (or use the yard’s equipment) to take apart and extract the parts you need. Once you’ve picked what you want, you pay by the pound for the vehicle or by the part. Staff can help with part locations or removal tips.

Do I need to bring my own tools?

Pat's Auto Salvage has basic tools and equipment for customers, but some prefer to bring their own. If you have tools you’re comfortable with, bringing them can speed up the process. Common tools needed include wrenches, sockets, pry bars, and cutting tools for tougher parts.

Is there a minimum purchase requirement?

Pat's Auto Salvage doesn’t list a minimum purchase requirement, but it’s best to ask staff when you visit. Some salvage yards have minimums to ensure customers are serious about buying parts. Call ahead at (319) 232-0704 if you’re unsure.