Cheap cars and Junkyards pretty much go hand in hand. Now obviously there are a million places to get parts new and used from eBay to your local parts store. In the age of unlimited online suppliers and a worldwide parts market, I think many part shoppers have forgotten about using the local junk car yard near me as a parts alternate.

Personally I much rather prefer the yards that are eager to simply let you browse around on your own. These yards can also be a decent spot to find some better prices because in some cases a little bargaining can be done. If you’re looking to make a trip to one of these “you pick you pull” type yards it’s a good idea to take a few steps to come prepared.

First of all, bring some tools of course! Customarily a decent sufficient socket set, some screwdrivers, and a set of vice-grips will get the work done and not be too heavy to carry around. In certain cases bringing a jack may be required, but some yards are keen to provide jacks and engine hoists or at least rent them. If bringing any power tools, torches, or other equipment it’s a good idea to check with the owner first. Also, it’s a good idea to wear some old clothes, a pair of boots, and some thick gloves (lots of old rusty wreckage can be a threat and most yards tend to get pretty muddy and can have some actually overgrown grass).

After finding the right part, some may be worried about how they know that the part is going to be in good enough condition to recycle. Fairly it really depends on the part and a lot of other variables, but in most cases, yard owners are keen to provide some kind of warranty or guarantee.

So the next time you choose to purchase a junk car part don’t forget that there could be a great deal waiting for you at your local car yard and the shopping experience itself can be pretty fun too!