Paul's Auto Yard In Gary IN

Welcome to Paul's Auto Yard in Gary, IN: Your Go-To Spot for Used Auto Parts

If you're on the hunt for reliable used auto parts, look no further than Paul's Auto Yard right here in Gary, Indiana. Located at 7100 W 15th Ave, Gary, IN 46406, this spot is a part of a larger network of trusted salvage yards in Indiana that have been helping folks like you save money since 1976. They're all about getting you the parts you need without breaking the bank, whether you're a DIY enthusiast or a professional mechanic.

A Rich History and Reliable Service

Paul's Auto Yard has been a cornerstone of the Indiana automotive scene for decades. While the specific start date for the Gary location isn't a headline grabber, the overall Paul's Auto Yard family has been serving communities since 1976. That's a lot of years helping drivers keep their rides on the road! These kinds of businesses, often referred to as wrecking yards or scrap yards, are super important for recycling vehicles and providing affordable parts, helping both your wallet and the environment.

In 2014, the Paul's Auto Yard network, including this Gary location, joined forces with Scrap Metal Services (SMS). This move helped SMS boost its efforts in self-service auto parts and scrap recycling across the Midwest. So, you're not just dealing with a local lot, but a part of a bigger system focused on getting you what you need efficiently.

Services Offered at Paul's Auto Yard – Gary, IN

At Paul's Auto Yard in Gary, IN, you'll find a wide array of services designed to help with your vehicle needs, whether you're buying or selling. They're known for being a customer-friendly spot with a strong commitment to keeping things green through recycling.

What They Do For You:

• Used Auto Parts Sales: This is their bread and butter! You can snag a variety of used car and truck parts, from engines and transmissions to headlights and doors.
• Junk Car Removal: Got an old clunker taking up space? They'll buy your junk car, no matter the condition, and even offer towing services to get it off your property. Cha-ching!
• Scrap Metal Recycling: They're big into recycling! Paul's Auto Yard buys and recycles all sorts of scrap metal, which is great for the environment and can put some extra money in your pocket.
• Industrial Metal Recycling: If you've got bigger metal recycling needs, they can handle that too, catering to larger industrial clients.
• Tire Sales: Need some new rubber? They sell both new and used tires.
• Battery Sales: Got a dead battery? They also have used batteries available for purchase.

How They Operate: Self-Service vs. Full-Service

Paul's Auto Yard runs mostly as a self-service salvage yard. This means you get to roll up your sleeves, browse their extensive inventory of vehicles, and pull the parts you need yourself. It's a great way to save money and get exactly the part you're looking for. However, they also offer full-service options, especially for things like junk car removal and towing, where their team handles all the heavy lifting.

Buying and Selling Vehicles (or Just Parts!)

They're in the business of buying junk cars, trucks, and scrap metal from the public. So, if you've got an old ride ready for retirement, they're ready to give you cash for it. While they buy whole vehicles, their main focus is on selling you individual used auto parts to get your current vehicle back in tip-top shape.

What Kinds of Rides You'll Find for Parts

Paul's Auto Yard keeps a massive inventory of vehicles at their Gary salvage yard. We're talking about a mix of domestic and foreign vehicles, from tiny cars to big trucks. They get new vehicles all the time, so their stock is always changing. It's like a treasure hunt every visit!

Vehicle Categories You'll See:

• Cars (Domestic and Foreign): Sedans, coupes, hatchbacks – all the usual suspects.
• SUVs and Crossovers: Plenty of options for your sport utility needs.
• Trucks: Light-duty and full-size pickup trucks are often available for parts.
• Vans: Minivans and full-size vans, perfect for family projects or work rigs.
• Other: Every now and then, you might stumble upon something unique!

While their stock changes, you'll generally find parts for popular models like Ford F-Series trucks, Chevy Silverados, Toyota Camrys, and Honda Civics, plus many more. Most of the vehicles are older models, but sometimes you can snag parts from a newer wreck. It's always best to call ahead or check their online inventory if you're looking for something specific.

Popular Auto Parts You Can Score

When you head to a salvage yard like Paul's, you're usually looking for those bigger, more durable parts that cost a fortune new. Forget about the small stuff like air filters or spark plugs – you'll want those new anyway! Here's what folks are usually after:

High-Demand Used Parts:

• Engines and Transmissions: These are big ticket items, and finding a good used engine or transmission can save you a bundle. Paul's often has remanufactured options too, sometimes with a warranty!
• Body Parts: Doors, fenders, bumpers, and body panels are hot sellers, especially after a fender bender. It's like finding a puzzle piece for your ride.
• Cooling System Components: Radiators are often needed and can be pricey new, making them a great used find.
• Lights: Headlight and taillight assemblies are often pulled from wrecked cars.
• Tire Rims: Need a replacement rim or looking to upgrade? Used rims are a popular pick.
• Interior Bits: Dashboards, door panels, seats – perfect for restoring an old classic or just fixing up a worn interior.

Getting the Best Price for Parts

While Paul's Auto Yard offers some of the best pricing around for used auto parts, they don't publish a huge, publicly available list of every single part price online for their Gary location. Why? Because their inventory is huge and always changing! The best way to get a price for that specific part you need is to call them directly or visit the yard.

However, if you're looking to recycle scrap metal, you're in luck! They do have updated scrap metal pricing for things like steel, aluminum, copper, and brass available through third-party apps like iScrap App. So, if you're cleaning out your garage, you can check those prices beforehand.

Who Comes to Paul's Auto Yard?

Paul's Auto Yard in Gary, IN, serves a pretty wide area. Folks from all over come to find quality parts and get good deals. You'll likely see customers from nearby cities and towns like:

• East Chicago, IN: A short drive for industrial and residential part seekers.
• Hobart, IN: Part of the larger Gary area, with residents looking for good value.
• Hammond, IN: A major city in the region, bringing in a lot of customers.
• Munster, IN: Close by and full of savvy shoppers.
• Lake Station, IN: Another local town that benefits from the yard's services.

These communities are all within a reasonable driving distance, making Paul's Auto Yard a convenient stop for anyone needing a used car part or looking to sell your car for scrap.

How the Interchange System Works

One of the coolest things about a place like Paul's Auto Yard is their auto parts interchange system. What does that mean? It means a part from one car might actually fit another, even if they're different models or years! This is especially helpful when you're digging through their massive inventory of used vehicles.

Because they operate as a “pick-and-pull” or “u-pull-it” salvage yard, you get to physically look at the parts. Their experienced staff, with five decades in the business, can also give you a hand and guide you on what parts might be compatible. Plus, with 13 locations across Indiana, they have a huge network to help you find the part you need, even if it's not at the Gary location. It's like having a giant puzzle where all the pieces are interchangeable!

Warranty Information

Nobody wants to buy a part only to have it quit on them next week. While specific, detailed warranty info for every single used part isn't readily available online for Paul's Auto Yard in Gary, they do offer a warranty on used engines. That's a pretty big deal for such a major purchase!

For all the nitty-gritty details, like how long the warranty lasts or if there are extended options, your best bet is to give Paul's Auto Yard a call directly at (800) 261-2789. It's always smart to ask those questions before you buy. If you're curious about general used auto parts warranty details, you can find more info on our site.

Entry Fees and Hours of Operation

Good news! There's no entry fee or cover charge to get into Paul's Auto Yard in Gary, IN. They want you to come in, browse, and find what you need without paying just to walk through the door.

As for their hours, the Pick-A-Part Lot closes at 4:30 PM. They're open Monday through Saturday. Sundays are typically closed, but it's always wise to check their website or call ahead for any holiday hours or special events.

Tools and Equipment Needed for Your Junkyard Adventure

If you're heading to Paul's Auto Yard for a pick-and-pull adventure, you'll be doing the heavy lifting yourself. That's how you save the big money! So, it's super important to come prepared with the right gear. Think of yourself as an auto parts archaeologist.

What You Should Definitely Bring:

• Basic Hand Tools: A good set of wrenches (both metric and standard), sockets, screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead), and pliers are your best friends.
• Pry Bar and Hammer: For those stubborn, rusted-on parts that just don't want to budge.
• Ratchet Set: Speeds up bolt removal.
• Safety Gear: Don't forget your safety glasses and gloves! You'll be working around sharp metal and grease.
• Work Light: A headlamp or flashlight is handy for peering into dark engine bays.
• Penetrating Oil: Like PB Blaster, it works wonders on rusted bolts.
• Stronger Tools: For bigger jobs, consider a jack and jack stands (check if they're allowed/provided), or even a battery impact wrench if you're serious about speed.

For more detailed advice on what tools you might need, check out our guide.

What the Yard Might Provide (or NOT):

While Paul's Auto Yard focuses on self-service, some yards might have basic equipment like trolleys for moving heavy parts. However, they generally do NOT provide specialty tools (like torque wrenches) or personal protective equipment. You're the one in charge of your safety and success!

Selling Your Junk Car for Cash!

Have an old car or truck that's seen better days? Maybe it's not running, or it's just an eyesore? Paul's Auto Yard in Gary, IN, is ready to give you cash for junk cars! This service is super convenient because they handle all the heavy lifting.

They'll buy your vehicle in any condition – running or not, wrecked or just plain unwanted. The best part? They offer free towing, so you don't have to worry about how to get that old ride to the salvage yard. You simply call them up, get a free same-day estimate, and if you like the offer, they'll pick it up and pay you on the spot. It's a hassle-free way to sell your old ride and get some money in your pocket. Just make sure you have the vehicle title ready!

News and Other Local Salvage Yards

While there isn't a ton of breaking news specifically about Paul's Auto Yard at 7100 W 15th Ave, Gary, IN, recently, it's good to know the basics. As mentioned, the yard became part of Scrap Metal Services (SMS) in 2014, expanding their reach in the Midwest. As of reports from 2015, the Gary location was still up and running strong.

Other Salvage Yards in Gary, IN:

Paul's Auto Yard isn't the only game in town! Here are a couple of other spots in Gary that might be on your radar:

1. I-80 Auto Parts, Inc. (3349 Burr St, Gary, IN 46406): This salvage yard also boasts a large inventory of used auto parts and serves folks from Indiana and the Chicago area. They focus heavily on parts sales.
2. GMJS Used Auto Parts (2201 Colfax St, Gary, IN 46406): A more recent player (since 2021), GMJS buys and sells used auto parts, vehicles (including medium and heavy-duty trucks), and various metals. They update their inventory weekly, so calling ahead is a good idea.

Frequently Asked Questions About Paul's Auto Yard

1. What services does Paul's Auto Yard offer?

Answer: Paul's Auto Yard in Gary is your one-stop shop for used auto parts, junk car removal (they pay cash and tow!), and scrap metal recycling. They operate as a self-service salvage yard where you can pick and pull parts, but also offer full-service options like vehicle towing.

2. What are the operating hours of Paul's Auto Yard?

Answer: You can visit Paul's Auto Yard Monday through Saturday. The “Pick-A-Part” lot usually closes at 4:30 PM. Sundays are typically closed, so plan your visit accordingly!

3. How does one sell their vehicle to Paul's Auto Yard?

Answer: Easy peasy! Just give them a call to get a cash offer for your old car or truck. They'll even arrange to tow it away for free once you agree on the price. It's a quick way to get rid of an unwanted vehicle and score some cash.

4. What types of payments are accepted at Paul's Auto Yard?

Answer: When they buy your junk car or scrap metal, they'll usually pay you in cash right on the spot. For purchasing used parts, they typically accept credit cards and debit cards.

5. What kind of used auto parts can be found at Paul's Auto Yard?

Answer: You can find a huge variety of used car and truck parts here! Their inventory comes directly from the vehicles in their yard, so expect to find everything from engines and transmissions to body panels, headlights, and much more. It's like a mechanical candy store!

6. What tools are commonly used in a junkyard like Paul's Auto Yard?

Answer: In a self-service wrecking yard like Paul's, you'll see customers with basic hand tools like wrenches, sockets, screwdrivers, and pliers. For bigger jobs, folks might bring pry bars, hammers, and even battery-powered impact wrenches. The yard itself uses heavy-duty equipment like pulley systems and hydraulic lifts for moving large vehicles and parts.

7. How does Paul's Auto Yard handle customer service and employee relations?

Answer: Paul's Auto Yard aims for good customer service, especially when helping you locate those elusive used parts. They're part of a family-owned legacy that values its customers. While employee experiences can sometimes vary, the overall goal is to make your visit productive and affordable.

See Paul's Auto Yard in Action!

Want a closer look at what goes on at a salvage yard like Paul's? Check out this video to get a feel for the automotive recycling process and maybe even pick up a few tips for your next visit!