Pick-N-Pull San Antonio: Your Complete Guide to Affordable Auto Parts

Establishment and Ownership

Pick-N-Pull’s San Antonio location at 11795 Applewhite Rd has been serving the local automotive community since 1986, establishing itself as a fixture in the South Texas used auto parts landscape. While the broader Pick-N-Pull chain got its start with its first store in Stockton, California in 1984, the San Antonio branch followed soon after as part of the company’s early expansion.

In a significant business development, Pick-N-Pull became a subsidiary of Schnitzer Steel Industries in 2003. This acquisition integrated the salvage yard into a larger Fortune 1000 metals recycling corporation, enhancing its stability and reach in the automotive recycling sector.

The facility’s longevity—operating for over 35 years at the same location—demonstrates its successful business model combining self-service parts salvage yard with environmental recycling practices. This approach has made Pick-N-Pull a trusted name among junkyards in Texas, particularly for those seeking affordable automotive solutions.

Services Provided

Pick-N-Pull San Antonio operates as a self-service auto salvage yard with a business model designed to help customers save money while finding the exact parts they need. Their approach combines affordability with practical support services.

Service Overview Table

Service Type	Description	Cost Savings	Additional Notes
Self-Service Parts Removal	Customers bring tools to extract parts from 3,500+ vehicles	50–70% off retail prices	Spans vehicles from 1970s–2010s
Independent Parts Pullers	Third-party professionals available to pull parts	Varies by puller	For customers unable to pull their own parts
Parts Warranty	90-day coverage on most parts	Peace of mind for low cost	10% of part price
Inventory Assistance	Free parts interchange lists and location guidance	Time savings	Printouts provided by staff
Yard Amenities	Free shuttle service across the 30-acre facility	Convenience	Drink machines available
Used Car Sales	Quality used vehicles	Market-competitive pricing	Text alerts for new inventory
Junk Car Buying	Purchase unwanted vehicles with free towing	Cash for unused vehicles	Same-day pickup available

The yard’s combination of self-service options with practical support makes it particularly appealing to DIY mechanics and budget-conscious car owners. Customers appreciate the ability to find quality used auto parts at significant discounts while having access to assistance when needed.

 

Vehicle Types

Pick-N-Pull at 11795 Applewhite Rd maintains a diverse inventory of used auto parts vehicles spanning multiple decades. With over 3,500 vehicles spread across 30 acres, the yard offers an impressive selection for parts hunters.

Key Vehicle Types and Models

The San Antonio location features a wide range of makes and models, including:

• Ford: Crown Victoria
• Pontiac: Grand Prix, G6, Grand Am, Bonneville
• Suzuki: Swift, SX4 Sedan, SX4 Crossover
• Oldsmobile: Custom Cruiser
• Dodge: Ram Pickup
• Mercury: Grand Marquis
• Buick: Park Avenue, Lesabre, Century

The inventory includes both domestic and imported vehicles, with a mix of sedans, SUVs, and trucks. While the yard emphasizes late-model vehicles up to the 2010s, it also stocks older models from the 1970s–1990s, providing parts for a wide range of automotive needs.

Customers can browse the daily-updated inventory by make or model to locate specific vehicles, making it easier to plan a visit when looking for parts for cars of particular makes and models.

Popular Auto Parts

The San Antonio Pick-N-Pull location is a treasure trove for auto enthusiasts and DIY mechanics seeking quality parts at affordable prices. Based on industry practices and customer buying patterns, certain durable components are particularly sought after.

Most Commonly Purchased Parts

1. Engines and Transmissions
2. Complete engines for rebuilds or swaps
3. Used transmissions (automatic and manual)
4. Transfer cases for 4WD vehicles
5. Body Panels
6. Bumpers, especially OEM truck bumpers
7. Fenders and quarter panels
8. Doors, hoods, and trunks
9. Grills and trim pieces
10. Wheels and Tires
11. Alloy and steel wheels
12. Rims in various sizes
13. Used tires with remaining tread
14. Electrical and Cooling Components
15. Quality used alternators
16. Starters and ignition components
17. AC compressors and radiators
18. Glass and Visibility Parts
19. Used windshields
20. Side and rear glass
21. Mirrors and housings

Pick-N-Pull’s 90-day warranty on most parts provides additional peace of mind for customers investing in these components. The yard’s self-service model allows shoppers to inspect parts thoroughly before purchase, ensuring they’re getting the quality they need for their repairs.

Most Recent Auto Parts Prices

Pick-N-Pull San Antonio provides self-service auto parts with a 90-day warranty on all components. Their pricing structure is designed to deliver significant savings compared to new parts while ensuring quality.

Example Prices

Part Type	Price	Core Charge (if applicable)
ABS Pump with Module	$86.99	N/A
Transfer Case	$143.99	N/A
Alternator	$42.00	$6.00
A/C Compressor	$52.50	$6.00
Clutch Slave Cylinder	$16.99	N/A
15″ Tires	$24.00 each	N/A

These prices represent significant savings—typically 50–70% less than purchasing new OEM parts. The core charge system for certain components (like alternators and compressors) serves as a recycling incentive, with the charge refunded when you return your old part.

For the most current pricing, customers should use Pick-N-Pull’s online part search tool or visit the yard directly, as prices may fluctuate based on part condition, vehicle make/model, and current inventory levels.

Service Area

Pick-N-Pull in San Antonio serves customers from throughout the region, drawing parts hunters from numerous surrounding communities.

Cities near Pick-N-Pull in San Antonio
– Schertz: Known for military families and shopping, with a 30-minute commute to San Antonio
– Boerne: Offers German heritage, family-friendly attractions, and a 35-minute drive
– Converse: Features affordable housing and easy highway access
– Universal City: Commuter-friendly with a 25-minute drive
– Selma: Family-friendly community with parks and events
– Live Oak: Short commute (20 minutes) and low crime rate
– Marion: Close-knit community and lower cost of living
– Bandera: Laid-back atmosphere with historic buildings and outdoor activities
– Fredericksburg: German heritage, wineries, and historic landmarks
– Fair Oaks Ranch: Golf courses and nature centers

These communities provide a steady stream of customers for the salvage yard, with many DIY mechanics and budget-conscious auto owners making the trip to find affordable parts. The yard’s location makes it accessible from multiple directions, serving as a regional hub for used auto parts.

Interchange System

Pick-N-Pull at 11795 Applewhite Rd in San Antonio, TX, assists customers in finding compatible auto parts through a combination of inventory management and staff support. The facility maintains an updated inventory system that allows customers to search for vehicles and parts, including those from other models that may have interchangeable components.

Interchangeable Parts Guidance

The San Antonio branch emphasizes user-friendly search tools and staff guidance to help customers identify parts from different vehicles that fit their needs. This approach is particularly valuable when the exact make/model a customer needs isn’t available, but compatible parts exist on other vehicles.

Staff members can assist in identifying compatible parts using their knowledge of manufacturer cross-referencing practices, helping customers navigate the sometimes complex world of OEM partscompatibility.

Additional Support

• Customers can access core refunds by returning used parts
• The facility offers a 90-day warranty on most parts
• Independent part-pullers are available for hire if customers prefer not to extract parts themselves

This approach balances self-service flexibility with structured support to streamline the parts-finding process, making it easier for customers to locate the right components even when their exact vehicle model isn’t in the yard.

Warranty Information

The Pick-N-Pull location at 11795 Applewhite Rd offers a robust warranty program for most used auto parts, with specific exceptions and cost structures.

Warranty Coverage Breakdown

Standard 90-Day Warranty

• Applies to all parts except tires and batteries
• “No questions asked” policy provides in-store credit for defective parts
• Excludes taxes and environmental fees from refunds

Battery Warranty

• Used Batteries: 30-day warranty
• Reconditioned Batteries: 90-day warranty

Tire Policy

• No warranty available for tires
• Customers must have tires professionally inspected and installed
• All tires sold “as-is” and considered unfit for road use until inspected

Cost Structure

The warranty costs 10% of the part’s price at purchase. For example, a $100 part would have a $10 warranty fee.

Key Conditions

• Return Policy: Defective parts must be returned within 90 days with a valid receipt and original paint markings
• Exclusions: Environmental fees and taxes are non-refundable

No extended warranty options beyond the 90-day period are offered. For tires, the lack of warranty emphasizes the need for professional inspection before use, a standard practice among most salvage yards in Texas.

Entry Fee

The Pick-N-Pull location at 11795 Applewhite Rd in San Antonio, TX, charges a $2.00 yard entrance fee for customers to access the self-service auto parts yard. This fee applies to all visitors aged 16 and older.

Regarding discounts:
– No special discounts are explicitly mentioned for entrance fees or general services
– The facility offers a core charge refund system, where a deposit is charged for recyclable parts (e.g., batteries, starters) and refunded upon returning the old part within 14 days

For parts pricing, customers save 50–70% compared to new parts by pulling components themselves. Independent parts pullers are available for hire if needed, which can be helpful for those without tools or experience.

The modest entrance fee helps the facility maintain its large inventory and services while keeping overall costs low for customers seeking affordable auto parts. It’s worth noting that the best hours to visit are typically weekday mornings when the yard is less crowded.

Tools and Equipment For Pulling Used Auto Parts

Tools for Pick-N-Pull at 11795 Applewhite Rd, San Antonio, TX

Tools Provided by Pick-N-Pull:
The facility does not provide tools for customers, as it operates as a self-service yard.

Essential Tools to Bring

General Tool Kit

• Socket sets: SAE and metric sizes (¼“, ⅜”, ½” drives) for bolts and fasteners
• Wrenches: Adjustable and fixed sizes for holding bolts/nuts
• Breaker bar: For applying extra torque on stubborn bolts
• Hammer and pry bar: For loosening stuck parts or breaking components
• Screwdrivers/nutdrivers: Flathead, Phillips, Torx (for modern vehicles)
• Locking pliers: For rounded or damaged fasteners
• Needle-nose pliers: For cotter pins or small components
• Cutting tools: Hacksaw, diagonal cutters, or cordless reciprocating saw (for wires/fuel lines)
• Penetrating fluid: To loosen rusted bolts
• Flashlight: For inspecting recessed areas

Safety Gear

• Closed-toe shoes and safety glasses (required for entry)
• Gloves: Mechanics or nitrile gloves for protection

Tools by Part Type

Part Type	Recommended Tools
Engine/Transmission	Impact gun, breaker bar, socket set, penetrating fluid, pry bar
Suspension/Steering	Wrenches, socket set, locking pliers, hammer
Interior Components	Screwdrivers, Torx bits, needle-nose pliers, pry bar
Electrical Systems	Screwdrivers, wire cutters, flashlight
Exhaust/Brakes	Wrenches, hacksaw, penetrating fluid

Prohibited Tools

• Jacks, torches, grinders, generators, or gas-powered tools
• No pets, alcohol, or drugs allowed

Customers must sign a liability waiver and adhere to safety policies. For heavy parts, consider bringing a hand truck or dolly. Having the right tools makes your visit more productive and helps you save money on major repairs.

Cash for Junk Cars

Yes, Pick-N-Pull at 11795 Applewhite Rd in San Antonio, TX, buys junk cars from the general public and offers cash for vehicles in any condition.

Vehicle Purchase Policy

1. Acceptance of all conditions:
They purchase cars and trucks regardless of operational status, including non-running vehicles. The process explicitly states they buy vehicles “no matter the condition, even if it no longer runs.”

2. Cash payment:
Sellers receive cash upon pickup, with no hidden fees or expenses. The transaction includes free towing services for non-operational vehicles.

3. Process overview:
– Instant quotes: Available via online form, phone, or in-person consultation
– Free pickup: Towing is provided at no cost to the seller
– Documentation: Requires proof of ownership during the transfer process

Additional Services

• Self-service parts yard: While primarily a parts retailer, their vehicle purchasing program operates separately from their parts sales
• Competitive pricing: Advertises “top dollar” payments compared to traditional junkyards

If you’re looking to sell your junk car, Pick-N-Pull offers a straightforward process that can turn your unwanted vehicle into quick cash. Their free towing and no-hassle approach make them a popular option for disposing of non-running or damaged vehicles.

Other Junkyards in San Antonio

Other Salvage Yards Near Pick-N-Pull

AAA Auto Recyclers

• Address: 11725 Palo Alto Rd (TX–16), San Antonio, TX 78224
• Key Features:
• Size: 11 acres with over 1,500 vehicles
• Inventory: Focuses on late-model cars and trucks (2005 and newer)
• Services: Self-service parts pulling, 90-day warranty on parts, free towing for purchased vehicles
• Comparison to Pick-N-Pull: Smaller inventory (1,500 vs. 3,500+ vehicles) but specializes in newer models. Offers similar self-service and warranty terms

Ashley Salvage Co

• Address: 4918 Roosevelt Ave, San Antonio, TX 78214
• Key Features:
• Services: Not explicitly detailed in search results, but listed as a local salvage yard
• Comparison: Limited information available, but likely smaller in scale compared to Pick-N-Pull’s 30-acre facility

A–1 Salvage

• Address: 9643 New Laredo Hwy, San Antonio, TX 78211
• Key Features:
• Services: General auto salvage operations
• Comparison: No specific details on size or inventory, but likely less extensive than Pick-N-Pull’s 3,500+ vehicles

Roosevelt U-Pull-It

• Address: 10606 Roosevelt Ave, San Antonio, TX 78221
• Key Features:
• Services: Self-service parts yard
• Comparison: Similar self-service model but no explicit mention of inventory size or warranty terms

Comparison Summary

Feature	Pick-N-Pull	AAA Auto Recyclers	Others (e.g., A–1 Salvage)
Size	30 acres, 3,500+ vehicles	11 acres, 1,500+ vehicles	Smaller inventories (details sparse)
Inventory Focus	Broad range (1970s–2010s)	Late models (2005+)	General salvage
Warranty	90-day warranty on parts	90-day warranty on parts	Not specified
Services	Self-service, parts pulling assistance	Self-service, free towing for purchases	Limited details
Specialty	Largest selection in South Texas	Newer models	N/A

Key Takeaway: Pick-N-Pull stands out for its extensive inventory and acreage, while AAA Auto Recyclers offers a focused selection of newer vehicles. Other nearby junkyards lack detailed operational specifics in the provided data.

Common Questions

1. Do you have the part I need for my vehicle?

Pick-N-Pull maintains a large inventory of over 4,500 vehicles spanning decades (1970s–2010s) across 30 acres. However, as a self-service yard, they do not guarantee parts availability. Customers must search their inventory online or visit the yard to locate and pull parts themselves. They offer free interchange searches to identify compatible parts across models and years.

2. Do you pull the parts for me?

No, customers must bring their own tools to pull parts. However, independent contractors (Independent Parts Pullers) are available for hire to assist with part extraction. Prohibited tools include jacks, circular saws, torches, and generators without spark arrestors, while battery-powered tools are permitted.

3. Do you buy junk cars?

Yes, Pick-N-Pull purchases junk cars and offers free pickup. They emphasize competitive pricing, claiming to pay more than other buyers in the San Antonio area. Titles are preferred, but alternatives like auction receipts or liens may be accepted.

4. How much do you pay for junk cars?

Exact payment varies by vehicle condition and market demand. Customers are advised to contact Pick-N-Pull directly for a free quote via phone (210–298–5420) or online form. If you’re wondering “where can I sell my car for the most money?”, comparing their offer with other local buyers is recommended.

5. Do you require a title to buy my vehicle?

A clear title is preferred, but exceptions exist for vehicles meeting POA (Power of Attorney) or COA (Certificate of Authority) requirements. Documentation like auction receipts or mechanic liens may also be accepted.

6. Will you pick up my junk car?

Yes, free towing is provided by professional drivers using late-model wreckers. Pickup is available at the customer’s location.

7. What about environmental fees or core charges?

Pick-N-Pull charges an environmental fee to offset compliance costs for hazardous material recycling (e.g., batteries, fluids). Core charges apply to recyclable parts (e.g., engines, transmissions), refundable upon returning the old part within 14 days.

Key Features Highlighted:
– Self-service model: Customers pull parts themselves or hire independent contractors
– Inventory scale: Over 4,500 vehicles across 30 acres
– Warranty: 90-day warranty on parts (excluding tires and batteries)
– Documentation flexibility: Titles preferred but alternatives accepted

Whether you’re a DIY mechanic looking to save money on auto repairs or someone looking to sell a junk vehicle, Pick-N-Pull offers services that can meet your needs with their large inventory and established processes.

Pick-N-Pull

Pick-N-Pull a Auto parts store is located at : 11795 Applewhite Rd, San Antonio, TX 78224

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Hours Of Operation are:

Monday:8:30AM-5:30PM

Tuesday:8:30AM-5:30PM

Wednesday:8:30AM-5:30PM

Thursday:8:30AM-5:30PM

Friday:8:30AM-5:30PM

Saturday:8:30AM-5:30PM

Sunday:8:30AM-5:30PM