San Diego County Metals & Recycling - Spring Valley, CA
San Diego County Metals & Recycling is a self-service auto salvage yard and scrap metal recycling center at 3974 Spring Dr in Spring Valley. The yard sells used auto parts and takes scrap metal for recycling. Customers search the lot themselves for parts, and the staff can help with questions or part removal.
Services & What to Expect
This is a self-service yard, so you’ll search for parts on your own. The lot has used auto parts from different vehicle makes and models, including engines, transmissions, body panels, and interior components. Staff with experience in auto salvage are on hand to help identify parts or assist with disassembly if needed.
How Self-Service Salvage Works
- Visit during business hours and look for parts yourself.
- Parts are sold individually, with prices marked or available upon request.
- Tools for part removal may be available for rent or purchase.
- Pay at the front office after you’ve picked out your parts.
- Some parts may need cutting or disassembly—ask staff for help if required.
What to Bring
- A list of the parts you need, including the vehicle make, model, and year.
- Basic tools like wrenches or sockets if you plan to remove parts on-site.
- Cash or a card for payment—some transactions are cash-only.
- Gloves and safety gear, as the yard has sharp metal edges.
Scrap Metal Recycling
The yard takes scrap metal for recycling, including:
- Car parts like engines, transmissions, and frames
- Household metals such as pipes, steel beams, and old appliances
- Construction scrap like rebar and sheet metal
Prices depend on weight and current metal market rates. Call ahead to check if they accept specific materials.
Need to Get Rid of a Junk Car?
If you have an old vehicle taking up space, selling it for scrap is an option. Many local yards and cash-for-cars buyers pay for junk cars based on weight and condition. It’s a quick way to clear out a non-running vehicle and make some money.
Location & Hours
Address: 3974 Spring Dr, Spring Valley, CA 91977
Phone: (619) 741-9780
Website: sandiegocountyrecycling.com
Business Hours (Updated June 2024)
| Day | Hours |
| Monday | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Tuesday | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Wednesday | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Thursday | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Friday | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Saturday | 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM |
| Sunday | Closed |
Directions: The yard is near Spring Dr and Camino del Rio S. Parking is free on-site.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the hours for San Diego County Metals & Recycling?
The yard is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM and Saturday from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM. It’s closed on Sundays. Hours may change, so call ahead if visiting on a weekend.
Does San Diego County Metals & Recycling buy junk cars?
The business focuses on auto salvage and scrap metal recycling, not direct vehicle purchases. However, many local yards and cash-for-cars services accept junk vehicles for scrap. Call to confirm before bringing a car in.
What kind of parts can I find at San Diego County Metals & Recycling?
The yard carries a variety of used auto parts, including:
- Engines and transmissions
- Body panels like doors, hoods, and fenders
- Suspension and drivetrain components
- Interior parts such as seats, dashboards, and trim
- Electrical components like wiring harnesses and sensors
Parts come from different vehicle makes and models, but what’s available depends on recent salvage arrivals.
How does self-service auto salvage work at San Diego County Metals & Recycling?
You visit during business hours and search for parts on your own. Staff can help identify parts or assist with disassembly if needed. Once you’ve picked out your parts, you pay at the front office. Tools for part removal may be available for rent or purchase.
Do I need to bring my own tools?
It’s a good idea to bring basic tools like wrenches or sockets if you plan to remove parts on-site. The yard may have tools available for rent or purchase, but calling ahead to check is best.
What should I do if I can’t find the part I need?
If the part isn’t in stock, staff can check their inventory or suggest alternatives. Some yards also offer custom fabrication or part matching from multiple vehicles. Ask about recent salvage arrivals, as new vehicles are added regularly.
