Caveman Auto Repair: Your Carlsbad, NM Automotive Service Spot

Welcome to our detailed look at Caveman Auto Repair, a local automotive service provider nestled in Carlsbad, New Mexico. While the name might sound like a place to unearth ancient vehicle parts, this establishment primarily focuses on auto repair services rather than operating as a traditional salvage yard or wrecking yard. However, they do provide access to crucial auto parts and supplies needed to get your ride back on the road. For folks in the market for affordable car parts or reliable repairs, understanding what Caveman Auto Repair brought to the table (or the hoist, rather) is key.

About Caveman Auto Repair

Established in 2001 and incorporated in New Mexico, Caveman Auto Repair has been a part of the Carlsbad automotive scene for roughly 24 years (as of 2025). Located at 500 S Canyon St, Carlsbad, NM 88220, with some listings also noting 1704 S Canal St, this business has served the community with its repair expertise. In smaller towns like Carlsbad, you often find these kinds of shops are local fixtures, sometimes even family-owned for decades, keeping folks' cars running without breaking the bank. It's places like these that help maintain the automotive industry's backbone by offering practical solutions.

Services Provided

Caveman Auto Repair operated as a full-service repair shop. This means they weren't just a place to find a specific part; they handled a range of hands-on work to fix up your vehicle. Their focus was on getting your vehicle back in shape, often using the necessary auto parts and supplies.

Here's a breakdown of the services Caveman Auto Repair was known for:

Service Category	Description
Repair Services	Specializing in general vehicle maintenance and mechanical work, including in-depth engine repair. If your car was acting up, they were the folks to call.
Auto Parts & Supplies	They provided essential auto parts and supplies for vehicle maintenance and repairs. While not a self-service salvage yard, they would source and use parts for your repairs.
Full-Service Operation	Operated as a complete repair facility, handling various aspects of vehicle maintenance and repair, meaning they would take care of the entire fix for you.

Vehicle Types Serviced

While specific makes and models aren't listed, most full-service automobile repair shops like Caveman Auto Repair are equipped to work on a wide variety of vehicles, including common cars, trucks, and vans. If your ride needed a fix, chances are they could handle it. They weren't in the business of selling new or used vehicles, but rather keeping your existing one on the road. For finding quality used auto parts, you'd typically look to a dedicated Salvage yards in New Mexico.

Commonly Sought-After Auto Parts (General Information)

Even though Caveman Auto Repair is primarily a repair shop and not a traditional junkyard, understanding what parts are frequently needed can help you if you're ever looking to repair your vehicle, maybe even your wife's car with used parts from a salvage yard. Here are some of the most popular used auto parts folks often look for:

• Used Engines and Transmissions: These are often the holy grail for saving money. Replacing a whole engine or transmission (mechanical device) can be costly, so finding a good used one is a game-changer.
• Alternators and Starters: Common wear-and-tear items that always seem to give out when you least expect it. Finding quality used alternators is a smart move.
• Body Parts: Fenders, doors, hoods, and bumpers are hot commodities, especially after a fender bender.
• Suspension Components: Parts like shock absorbers and ball joints keep your ride smooth.
• Electrical and Electronic Components: Things like wiring harnesses or control units can be tricky to find new and are often available from scrap yards.
• Interior Components: Seats, dashboards, and other bits for restoration or just tidying up.

Warranty Information

Caveman Auto Repair was committed to standing by their work, offering a limited warranty on all used parts. This warranty typically lasted for 180 days (about 6 months) from the date of purchase, as noted on your invoice. This means if a part had a material defect within that period, they might replace or repair it, or even refund your money.

It’s important to note the fine print: for the warranty to be valid, parts need proper installation and maintenance. For example, if you got a used engine, you'd need to install new oil and filters, and keep up with regular changes. They also mentioned that labor costs might apply to warranty repairs, calculated at $55.00 per hour based on industry standards, plus up to $100 for fluids and gaskets. They even offered extended parts and labor warranties, giving you more peace of mind.

Service Area

For folks in Carlsbad, NM, and the surrounding regions, Caveman Auto Repair was a convenient spot for automotive needs. People often traveled from nearby cities and towns to utilize their services. This included areas like:

• Artesia, NM
• Lovington, NM
• Hobbs, NM
• Roswell, NM
• Ruidoso, NM
• Alamogordo, NM
• Pecos, TX
• Andrews, TX

This wide reach indicates their reputation as a reliable local service provider for many in the United States.

Auto Parts Interchange System (How it Works)

While specific details for Caveman Auto Repair’s use of an interchange system aren’t available, most reputable auto repair shops and those dealing with used auto parts often use one. An auto parts interchange system is like a secret decoder ring for car parts. It helps identify which parts from one vehicle can also fit another, even if they're different makes, models, or years. This is super handy for finding a compatible part, especially when dealing with OEM parts or even aftermarket car parts.

Shops use these systems to:

• Find the right fit: By punching in a vehicle's info (make, model, year, engine type), they can find parts that match.
• Maximize recycled parts: This helps keep costs down for customers and is great for vehicle recycling efforts.
• Offer cost-effective options: Using a compatible used part can save you a chunk of money compared to buying new.

Tools & Equipment Needed to Pull Used Auto Parts (General Advice)

Since Caveman Auto Repair was a repair shop and not a “u-pull-it” wrecking yard, you wouldn't typically bring your own tools to pull parts there. They would have their own specialized equipment to perform the repairs. However, for those of you who might visit a self-service salvage yard in the future, knowing what to bring is crucial. Think of it as preparing for a treasure hunt for automotive gold!

You can find a more comprehensive guide on what to bring to a junkyard, but here’s a quick overview:

Part Type You're After	Recommended Tools to Bring (General Junkyard Visit)
Interior Trim	Trim removal tool kit, screwdrivers, pry bars (gotta be gentle with plastics!)
Exterior Panels	Screwdrivers, ratchet set, pry bar, trim tool (for those pesky clips)
Engine/Transmission	Socket set, breaker bar, maybe an engine hoist (if the yard allows & you're brave enough to pull it yourself! Check how long it takes to pull an engine)
Wheels/Tires	Lug wrench, breaker bar, jack stands, hydraulic jack (most junkyards have rules about jacks, so ask first!)
General Purpose	Adjustable wrench, pliers, hammer, protective gloves, eye protection, sturdy shoes.

Remember, safety first! Always prioritize safety tips for junkyard visits, even when you're just looking for that perfect part.

Cash for Junk Cars (Alternative Options)

Given that Caveman Auto Repair is likely closed, they won't be buying your old junk car for cash. But don't despair! If you're looking to offload an old vehicle that's seen better days, there are still plenty of options in the Carlsbad area. Companies like Wheelzy are active in buying cars in any condition, whether it's a running used car or a true junk car ready for the scrapyard. They often base their offers on the vehicle's weight and current scrap metal pricing, providing a free quote.

Other Junkyards & Salvage Yards in Carlsbad, NM

Since Caveman Auto Repair is primarily a repair shop and potentially closed, if you're hunting for quality used auto parts or looking to get rid of a beat-up ride, here are some other establishments in the Carlsbad area:

• Rusty's Auto Salvage: Known for offering cash for junk cars and high-mileage vehicles.
• Kelly's Junkyards: Another spot that buys junk cars and offers removal services.
• Carlsbad Wrecking Co: A long-standing auto salvage yard at 1822 Railroad Ave, in operation since 1958. This is where you might truly find a wide inventory of used car parts.
• Wheelzy: A service that buys used vehicles, vans, and trucks, offering an easy way to sell for cash.

Common Questions About Caveman Auto Repair

Here are some frequently asked questions that come up regarding Caveman Auto Repair:

1. What services does Caveman Auto Repair offer?
   Caveman Auto Repair focused on general vehicle maintenance, various repair services (including crucial engine repair), and providing necessary auto parts and supplies for these repairs. Think of them as your friendly neighborhood mechanics.
2. Is Caveman Auto Repair still operational?
   Reports suggest that Caveman Auto Repair at 500 S Canyon St might be permanently closed. It's best to call them directly at (575) 887-7591 to confirm their current status before making a trip.
3. What tools does Caveman Auto Repair use?
   While specific tools aren't listed, as a full-service repair shop, they would have used standard automotive industry tools like OBD-II scanners for diagnostics, various hand tools (wrenches, pliers), power tools (impact wrenches), and specialized equipment for specific repairs.
4. Does Caveman Auto Repair have customer reviews or ratings?
   Yes, Caveman Auto Repair has collected customer reviews on platforms like Birdeye, where 69 reviews are listed. These can give you an idea of past customer experiences.
5. What is Caveman Auto Repair's business status with the Better Business Bureau (BBB)?
   Caveman Auto Repair was not an accredited business with the BBB. This simply means they haven't gone through the BBB's accreditation process.
6. What types of vehicles can Caveman Auto Repair work on?
   Like most auto repair shops, they likely serviced a broad range of passenger cars and trucks, including SUVs and vans. If it had an engine and wheels, they probably knew how to fix it!
7. How can I contact or visit Caveman Auto Repair?
   You could reach them by phone at (575) 887-7591. Their primary location was 500 S Canyon St, Carlsbad, NM 88220. Again, due to potential closure, a call before visiting is highly recommended.