Petersen Iron & Metal at 420 1st St, Coralville, IA 52241
Petersen Iron & Metal has been a Coralville, Iowa auto salvage yard and scrap metal recycler since 1976. Located at 420 1st St, the business sells used auto parts from a self-service junkyard, buys scrap metal, and offers welding and fabrication services. Customers can browse the yard for car parts, buy scrap metal, or use the yard’s tools to remove parts themselves. The yard is open Monday through Friday from 7:30 AM to 4:30 PM and closed on weekends.
Services & What to Expect
Petersen Iron & Metal is a self-service auto salvage yard where customers can find used car parts. The yard has vehicles in different states of disassembly, so visitors can search for and remove the parts they need. Basic tools are available, though some customers bring their own.
Auto Salvage & Parts
The yard carries parts from many vehicle makes and models, including domestic and foreign cars. You’ll often find engines, transmissions, body panels, bumpers, and interior components. Since inventory changes with new vehicle arrivals, call ahead at (319) 351-1331 to check if a specific part is in stock.
Scrap Metal Recycling
Petersen Iron & Metal buys scrap metal from individuals and businesses. They take steel, aluminum, copper, brass, and other non-ferrous metals. The metal is processed for reuse in manufacturing and construction. Drop off scrap during business hours for immediate payment.
Welding & Fabrication
The yard provides welding and fabrication services for custom projects or repairs. Staff can handle metalwork, structural repairs, and modifications. This is useful if you need custom parts or repairs that require professional welding.
Self-Service Process
To remove parts from the yard:
- Find the vehicle with the part you need.
- Use the yard’s tools or bring your own (like wrenches, sockets, or pry bars).
- Remove the part and take it to the payment counter.
- Pay based on the yard’s pricing (usually by weight or fixed price).
Some parts may need staff help for removal or cutting.
Getting Rid of an Old Vehicle
If you want to sell a junk car, Petersen Iron & Metal may buy it for scrap. Call ahead at (319) 351-1331 to confirm their current policies, as they don’t advertise a public buying service. You’ll need to contact them directly.
Location & Hours
Petersen Iron & Metal is at 420 1st St, Coralville, IA 52241. It’s easy to reach from US-6 and IA-218, with on-site parking. Nearby, you’ll find Coral Ridge Mall (half a mile east) and the University of Iowa Research Park (one mile north).
Business Hours
| Day | Hours |
| Monday | 7:30 AM – 4:30 PM |
| Tuesday | 7:30 AM – 4:30 PM |
| Wednesday | 7:30 AM – 4:30 PM |
| Thursday | 7:30 AM – 4:30 PM |
| Friday | 7:30 AM – 4:30 PM |
| Saturday | Closed |
| Sunday | Closed |
Hours can change, so call (319) 351-1331 before visiting, especially around holidays or bad weather.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the hours for Petersen Iron & Metal?
The yard is open Monday through Friday from 7:30 AM to 4:30 PM and closed on weekends and holidays. Always call to confirm hours before visiting.
Does Petersen Iron & Metal buy junk cars?
The business may buy vehicles for scrap, but it doesn’t have a public "cash for cars" program. Call (319) 351-1331 to ask about selling your car. For other junk car buyers in the area, check our directory .
What kind of parts can I find at Petersen Iron & Metal?
The yard has a variety of used auto parts, including:
- Engines and transmissions
- Body panels (doors, hoods, fenders)
- Bumpers and grilles
- Interior parts (seats, dashboards)
- Suspension and drivetrain components
- Electrical parts (wiring harnesses, alternators)
What’s in stock changes often, so call ahead to check for specific parts.
How does self-service auto salvage work at Petersen Iron & Metal?
Customers browse the yard, find the part they need, and remove it using the yard’s tools or their own. Staff help with part identification and payment. Some parts may need cutting or disassembly, which staff can do for a fee. Pay at the counter after removing the part.
Does Petersen Iron & Metal offer delivery for parts?
The yard doesn’t advertise part delivery, but staff may help with larger or heavier items. Ask about delivery options—it might be available for an extra fee, depending on the part and distance.
What types of scrap metal does Petersen Iron & Metal buy?
The yard buys common scrap metals, such as:
- Steel (car bodies, beams, appliances)
- Aluminum (wheels, siding, cans)
- Copper (wiring, pipes, tubing)
- Brass (fixtures, plumbing)
- Stainless steel
Non-ferrous metals usually pay more. Call ahead to confirm if they take a specific material.
