PAM's Auto In St Cloud MN

About PAM's Auto in St. Cloud, MN

Looking for reliable used auto parts in Central Minnesota? You've come to the right place! PAM's Auto, located at 7505 Ridgewood Rd, St. Cloud, MN 56303, has been a cornerstone of the automotive recycling industry since 1991. Started by two buddies, Mike Meyer and Pat Huesers, PAM's got its name from their initials: Pat And Mike. Pretty clever, right?

They kicked things off in a small two-stall garage, fixing up cars. But soon, they realized there was a bigger need for quality used parts. They moved to Mike's parents' farm, then by 1995, settled into their current large facility. Over the years, they've gone from fixing cars to becoming a massive auto salvage yard and parts distribution center, even earning fancy certifications like NSF and ISO9001:2015. This means they run a tight ship, ensuring you get top-notch parts!

To learn more about finding great deals on used auto parts, check out our guide on how to find high quality used auto parts.

Services Provided by PAM's Auto

PAM's Auto isn't just any old wrecking yard. They're a modern facility focusing on newer vehicles, typically ten years old or less. They get their vehicles straight from insurance auctions, so you won't find flood-damaged or super old junkers here. It's all about quality!

Type of Salvage Yard: Full Service

Unlike some “U-Pull-It” places, PAM's Auto is a full-service junkyard. This means you won't be rummaging through dusty cars with your own tools. Instead, their expert team handles all the dismantling. They use an electronic system to track every part, making sure they can quickly find and deliver what you need. It’s all about efficiency and safety here!

Vehicle Types Handled by PAM's Auto

PAM's Auto specializes in a wide range of late model domestic and import vehicles. If your vehicle is ten years old or newer, chances are they'll have the part you're hunting for. Their focus is on ensuring you get a quality used part that fits perfectly.

• European models: Think high-end rides like BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Volkswagen. Yes, they get parts from these too!
• Asian models: Common and reliable brands like Toyota, Honda, and Nissan are usually well-represented in their inventory.
• American models: Parts for Ford, Chevrolet, Dodge, and other popular domestic manufacturers are readily available.

They even provide pictures and videos of their vehicles, so you can see exactly what you're getting before you buy. That's a huge plus when you're trying to fix up your rig!

Popular Used Auto Parts at PAM's Auto

At any good salvage yard like PAM's Auto, certain parts fly off the shelves because they're expensive new, or just super common to need. Here's a rundown of what folks are usually looking for:

• Engines: A new engine can cost an arm and a leg. Getting a quality used engine from a reputable wrecking yard can save you big money and get your vehicle back on the road.
• Transmissions: Just like engines, new transmissions are pricey. A used transmission is often the way to go to keep your old car running strong.
• Body Panels and Doors: Dings, dents, and crashes happen. Used fenders, hoods, and doors are perfect for collision repair, often costing much less than new ones.
• Electronic and Electrical Components: Things like alternators, starters, and power window regulators can fail. These are often cheaper and easier to find used.
• Seats and Interior Parts: Worn-out seats or broken trim? Used interior parts can make your car feel fresh again without breaking the bank.
• Wheels and Tires: Need a spare wheel or a matching set? Used tires and wheels are a great deal, especially for older models.
• Bumpers and Grilles: Another common casualty of minor accidents or just general wear and tear. Used bumpers are a budget-friendly fix.
• Electronics (Sensors, Modules, MAF): Smaller electronic bits like Mass Airflow Sensors (MAF) or engine computers (ECUs) are often easy to pull and can save you a bundle.
• Drive Axles and Suspension Components: Important for your vehicle's safety and handling, used axles and suspension parts can be significantly cheaper than new ones.

Recent Auto Parts Prices at PAM's Auto

While a full price list isn't available, here are some examples of what you might expect to pay for parts at PAM's Auto:

• A wheel can run you around $324.99, plus a $75 core charge.
• Another model of wheel might be $524.99, also with a $75 core charge.
• Looking for an Engine Assembly? They had one for $449.99 (used, with about 95,883 miles on it). That's a steal compared to new!

Keep in mind that pricing changes based on the part, its condition, and vehicle model. For the most up-to-date price and inventory, it's always best to contact PAM's Auto directly or check their website.

PAM's Auto Service Area

PAM's Auto serves a wide area around St. Cloud, MN. Folks from all over Central Minnesota drive in to score great deals on parts. Here are some of the nearby cities and towns where their customers often come from:

• Sauk Rapids: Right next door, a super easy drive.
• Sartell: Just to the west, another growing community that relies on PAM's.
• Cold Spring: Southwest of St. Cloud, a bit of a drive but worth it for quality parts.
• Monticello: To the southeast, many commuters from here come to St. Cloud for parts.
• Buffalo: A larger town a bit further out, still within PAM's reach.
• Elk River: Also to the southeast, part of the wider Twin Cities metro corridor.

These areas are all within a reasonable driving distance, making PAM's Auto a convenient stop for anyone needing a part for their car or truck.

How PAM's Auto Helps You Find the Right Part (Interchange System)

Ever wonder if a part from one car will fit another? PAM's Auto has a system to help you figure that out! They don't just throw parts around; they know their stuff. Here’s how they make it easy to find compatible parts:

• Awesome Inventory Management: They've got over 100,000 parts in their electronic system. This means they can instantly check what's available and what fits your specific vehicle.
• Thorough Inspections: Every part they pull gets a good look-over and is properly graded. This helps them identify parts that can be swapped between different makes and models.
• Focus on Newer Vehicles: By specializing in late model cars and trucks (the ones ten years old or newer), they're more likely to have parts that fit modern rides.
• Industry Connections: PAM's Auto is part of the Automotive Recyclers Association (ARA). This gives them access to industry tools like the “Interchange Program,” which helps them pinpoint exactly which parts are interchangeable.

So, if you're not sure, just give their sales team a call. They'll help you find the exact part you need, even if it came from a slightly different model.

Warranty Information for Used Parts at PAM's Auto

Buying used parts can sometimes feel like a gamble, but not at PAM's Auto! They stand behind their products with a strong warranty. This gives you peace of mind when you're trying to get your car fixed up without breaking the bank.

Standard Warranty

• Duration: All parts come with a 120-day warranty. That's about four months of worry-free driving!
• Coverage: If a part fails because of a defect, they'll replace it, fix it, or give you your money back.
• Exclusions: Small stuff like brackets for installation isn't covered. Also, don't try to put a Ford part on a Chevy unless they told you it fits – that's not covered either! Labor costs aren't included in the standard warranty.

Extended and Lifetime Warranty Options

• Lifetime Warranty: This is a big one! Over 50 common parts come with a lifetime warranty at absolutely no extra charge. That's right, for life!
• Extended/Labor Warranty: For some parts, you might be able to get a longer warranty that even covers the cost of installation labor. Your salesperson will tell you about these options when you buy.
• Labor Reimbursement: Any money back for labor has to be approved by PAM's Auto beforehand and only applies with certain extended warranties.

PAM's Auto wants you happy. They handle warranty claims directly through the salesperson who sold you the part, making the process quick and easy.

Entry Fee and Discounts

Good news, budget warriors! There's no entry fee to visit PAM's Auto in St. Cloud, MN. You can browse their incredible selection of recycled auto parts without spending a dime just to get in the door. They focus on providing cost-effective solutions for your vehicle repairs.

While they don't list specific daily discounts or promotions, that fantastic lifetime warranty on over 50 common parts (mentioned above) is essentially a huge long-term discount, saving you from future replacement costs. For any current special deals, it's always smart to call them up directly.

• Phone: 800-560-7336 or 320-363-0000
• Address: 7505 Ridgewood Road, St. Cloud, MN 56303
• Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM CST

Tools and Equipment Needed to Pull Used Auto Parts (For Customers)

Since PAM's Auto is a full-service salvage yard, you won't be heading out into the yard with your toolbox to yank parts off cars. Their staff does all the heavy lifting and precise work for you! However, it's still good to know what kind of gear is generally involved in getting parts ready for you.

For your own repairs, you'll need your standard wrenches and sockets. But for the heavy stuff like an engine or transmission, PAM's Auto uses specialized equipment to ensure safe and efficient removal.

They provide certain equipment for customers to use for moving parts after they've been pulled by staff:

• A-Frame and Hoist: For those really heavy items like engines and transmissions, PAM's Auto has the big lifting equipment to help get them loaded for you. Just ask for assistance!
• Wheelbarrows: Free to use! Perfect for hauling those smaller (but still bulky) parts from the pick-up area to your car.

Remember, this isn't a U-Pull-It yard, so you don't need to bring your own impact wrenches or pry bars for disassembly. Safety first, folks! If you're curious about general safety tips for junkyard visits, check out our guide.

Cash for Junk Cars

Got an old clunker you're looking to get rid of? While PAM's Auto is a top-notch automotive recycling facility, their main way of getting vehicles is by purchasing them directly from insurance auctions. This means they focus on sourcing late model domestic and import vehicles (typically 10 years old and newer) that still have plenty of good parts.

The information available doesn't say if they buy junk cars directly from the general public or offer cash for cars in any condition. So, if you're looking to sell your car to them, it's always best to give them a direct call at 800-560-7336 or 320-363-0000 to ask about their current policies for buying vehicles from individuals. Never hurts to ask, right?

News and Notable Information about PAM's Auto

PAM's Auto isn't just another scrap yard; they're a respected player in the automotive industry. Mike Meyer and Pat, the founders, have grown this business significantly since 1991, expanding their operations across 130 acres. They're not just about selling parts; they also do mechanical work, paint, and body work, showing their full commitment to getting vehicles back in shape!

In 2018, PAM's Auto was recognized for their excellence, earning the CAR Member of the Year Award from David Gold. This highlights their dedication and impact within the automotive recycling community.

While no specific recent news articles popped up, their ongoing growth and recognition within professional associations like the Automotive Recyclers Association speak volumes about their reputation and service.

Other Wrecking Yards in St. Cloud, MN

While PAM's Auto is a fantastic choice, it's always good to know your options! St. Cloud, MN, and the surrounding area have a few other places where you might find used auto parts or get rid of an old car:

• St. Cloud Auto Wrecking LLC:

  Located in Sauk Rapids, right nearby. These folks offer new, used, and rebuilt parts for foreign and domestic cars, light duty trucks, and vans. They even have a free parts locating service to help you find that hard-to-get item.

• K&C Used Car and Truck Parts:

  You can find them at 2333 12th Street South East, St. Cloud, MN. K&C focuses on a large selection of used parts and offers nationwide shipping. They're all about customer satisfaction, just like PAM's.

• Keystone Automotive St. Cloud Auto Parts:

  Located at 2789 Clearwater Road. While they have a huge inventory of automotive and truck parts, including OEM parts, they are usually closed to the general public for walk-ins. You might need to order through them for delivery.

Each of these places has its own specialties, but PAM's Auto definitely stands out with its modern approach, strict quality control, and excellent warranty.

Common Questions About PAM's Auto

1. What Does PAM Stand For at PAM's Auto?

   PAM stands for Pat And Mike, the two founders, Pat Huesers and Mike Meyer, who started the company in 1991.

2. What Forms of Payment Does PAM's Auto Accept?

   They accept most major payment methods, including cash, credit/debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express), wire transfers, Western Union, and certified bank checks. They generally don't take personal or business checks without prior approval.

3. Does PAM's Auto Ship Auto Body Parts?

   Yes, they do! They ship a variety of auto body parts like fenders, doors, bumpers, hoods, and body cuts, usually via freight truck.

4. Can Customers Track Their Orders?

   Absolutely! Just contact PAM's Auto sales staff, and they'll give you a tracking number via email or over the phone.

5. Does PAM's Auto Provide Installation Services?

   No, PAM's Auto focuses on providing the parts. They don't do installations, but they can point you to local automobile repair shops that can help you get your parts installed.

6. Can Customers Pull Parts Themselves from the Yard?

   No, this is a full-service salvage yard. For safety reasons and to ensure quality, their trained staff retrieves all parts. You won't be doing any “U-Pull” work here.

7. What Tools Are Used at PAM's Auto or Similar Junkyards?

   Professional wrecking yards like PAM's Auto use heavy-duty tools for part removal and inspection, including: wreckers and tow trucks for vehicle retrieval, lifts and hoists for raising vehicles, air compressors and pneumatic tools for quick disassembly, diagnostic equipment for testing electrical components, and comprehensive inventory management software to track all their parts and manage sales. It's a whole operation!

A Look Inside PAM's Auto (Video)

Want to see what makes PAM's Auto tick? Check out this video to get a closer look at their operations and what goes on behind the scenes at a modern salvage yard like theirs!

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