Riverside Salvage Inc In St. Louis MO

Riverside Salvage Inc: Your Go-To for Used Auto Parts in St. Louis, MO

If you're on the hunt for reliable and affordable used auto parts, look no further than Riverside Salvage Inc. Located at 155 Humboldt Ave, St. Louis, MO 63147, this well-known salvage yard has been serving the St. Louis community for decades. Whether you're a seasoned mechanic or a DIY enthusiast trying to get your ride back on the road without breaking the bank, Riverside Salvage is a spot worth checking out. They're a big part of why Junkyards in Missouri play a crucial role in keeping older vehicles running and helping to reduce waste.

Establishment and Ownership

Riverside Salvage Inc first opened its doors in 1990, establishing itself as a fixture in the St. Louis automotive scene. The business is currently owned and managed by Mr. Francis Henke, who has been steering the ship for several decades. While specific details about the original founders aren't widely publicized, it's pretty common for salvage yards in the St. Louis area to be family-owned or local businesses that have grown over time, much like Riverside Salvage. Their long history shows they know a thing or two about finding the right parts for your car or truck.

Services Offered

Riverside Salvage Inc is much more than just a place to pick up old parts. They offer a comprehensive range of services to help folks with their auto part and restoration needs. Think of them as a one-stop-shop for getting your ride fixed up without spending a fortune.

Service Type	Description
Used Auto Parts	They've got a massive inventory of used components for just about any vehicle you can imagine. This is their bread and butter, helping you find that perfect used part at a great price.
New Auto Parts	Believe it or not, they also stock some new auto parts! This is super handy if you need something specific that's better new but want to stick with one supplier.
Rebuilt Auto Parts	For certain components, they offer rebuilt parts. This means they've taken a used part, fixed it up, and got it working like new, often with a good warranty.
Used Engines & Transmissions	Need a new heart for your car or a fresh transmission (mechanical device)? They specialize in used engines and transmissions, which can save you big money compared to buying new.
Auto Supplies	Beyond just parts, they also carry various auto supplies you might need for your repairs.
Auto Sales (Used Vehicles)	They don't just sell parts; they also engage in auto sales, meaning they buy and sell used cars. So, if you're in the market for a fixer-upper or a cheap used car, it’s worth asking.
Automobile Restoration Services	Looking to bring a classic back to life? Riverside Salvage offers automobile restoration services, leveraging their deep knowledge and wide range of parts.
Self-Service & Staff Assistance	It's primarily a self-service salvage yard, meaning you can roll up your sleeves and pull parts yourself. But don't worry, for those big, heavy items, the staff are on hand to help you load them up. Talk about good customer service!

Vehicle Types You'll Find

At Riverside Salvage Inc, the inventory is constantly changing, but you can always expect a broad selection of domestic and import vehicles. They’ve got everything from standard cars and sturdy trucks to spacious vans and family-friendly SUVs. Whether you're working on an older classic or a somewhat newer model, chances are you'll find what you need.

• Domestic Makes: You'll often spot popular American brands like Ford, Dodge, and even some less common ones like Plymouth.
• Imports: For those foreign-made beauties, expect to see brands like Nissan and Volkswagen.

Their yard is frequently updated, so while one day might be heavy on a certain make, the next could bring in a whole new batch. This variety means you have a better shot at finding that specific part for your ride.

Most Popular Auto Parts

When you visit a wrecking yard like Riverside Salvage, some parts are always in high demand because they’re costly new but often have plenty of life left in them used. These are the treasures people dig for:

• Engines and Engine Components: The heart of your vehicle. Finding a good used engine can save you a bundle.
• Transmissions: The tricky mechanical device that shifts your gears. Buying a used transmission can be a smart move, especially if you know what to look for.
• Starters and Alternators: These electrical parts are frequently bought used. They’re relatively easy to pull yourself if you have the right tools.
• Rear Ends (Differentials): Important for power delivery, these are another big-ticket item people look for used.
• Body Panels: Doors, hoods, trunks, and bumpers are always popular if you've had a fender bender.

Remember, bringing your old part along can help you find the exact match you need!

Auto Parts Prices

While Riverside Salvage Inc is known for its competitive pricing, they don't have a public online price list for their auto parts. This is pretty standard for many salvage yards, as their inventory and prices can change based on what vehicles they have on hand.

To give you an idea of what similar salvage yards might charge, here's a sample price list from a nearby yard (Note: This is NOT for Riverside Salvage Inc, and prices are subject to change!):

Part	Price (Used)
Alternator	$20.00
Antenna/Power	$15.00
Muffler Pipe	$7.99
Oil Pump	$9.99
Power Mirror-Door	$20.00
Window Regulator	$20.00
Wiper Motor	$9.99

The best way to get accurate pricing for the part you need at Riverside Salvage Inc is to simply give them a call at +1 314-385-8845. They accept cash payments only, so come prepared!

Service Area

People come from all over the greater St. Louis metropolitan area to find parts at Riverside Salvage Inc. Its convenient location makes it a popular choice for folks in nearby cities and towns, including:

• East St. Louis
• Maplewood
• University City
• Florissant
• Bellefontaine Neighbors
• Overland
• Richmond Heights
• Ferguson

If you're in the region and looking for quality used auto parts, Riverside Salvage is definitely worth the drive!

Auto Parts Interchange System

Finding the right part, especially a quality used OEM part, can sometimes feel like a treasure hunt. At Riverside Salvage Inc, they help you find compatible parts through their extensive inventory of used vehicles. While they might not have a fancy computerized system you can access from home, their knowledgeable staff are like human search engines.

They'll help you match parts across different makes and models, figuring out what can interchange with your specific vehicle. It's a hands-on approach where you can physically inspect the parts and the staff’s expertise ensures you get what you need. So, if you're looking for a part for your car and it's not readily available on the exact model, they can often point you to a compatible one from a different vehicle.

Warranty Information

Nobody wants to buy a part only to have it quit on them a week later. That’s why Riverside Salvage Inc offers a used parts warranty. This gives you some peace of mind when you're buying salvaged goods.

Here's the lowdown on their warranty:

• Standard Warranty: They provide a 90-day warranty on mechanical parts from the invoice date. This means if a mechanical part goes bad within that time, they'll replace it.
• No Labor Costs: Keep in mind, the warranty covers the part itself, but not the labor costs to install or remove it.
• “As Is” Parts: Certain items are sold “as is”, meaning no warranty. This includes:
  • Seals, gaskets, fluids, coolants
  • Electrical parts (like an alternator or starter, though sometimes issues might be fixable)
  • Glass, sheet metal, and body parts
• Refunds: Refunds are given by company check, not cash, and only if a replacement part isn't available.
• Return Rules: You need the original invoice to return a part. If a part is damaged, altered, or incomplete, it’s not eligible.
• Voiding Warranty: Overheating of parts will void the warranty, so make sure your cooling system is in good shape!
• Restocking Fee: If you return a non-warranty item (and they accept it), there's a 25% restocking fee.

It's always smart to understand the used auto parts warranty before you buy, so you know exactly what you're getting into.

Entry Fee

Good news for your wallet! There is no entry fee to get into Riverside Salvage Inc. You can walk right in and browse their expansive inventory of cars and trucks for parts without paying a dime. Just remember that once you find that perfect component, they operate on a cash-only payment basis for purchases. As for special discounts, there's no public info available, but their pricing is generally known to be competitive.

Tools and Equipment Needed to Pull Used Auto Parts

Since Riverside Salvage Inc runs mostly as a self-service salvage yard, you're the one doing the wrenching! That means you’ll need to bring your own tools. Think of it as a DIY adventure where you save some serious cash.

Recommended Tools to Bring:

• Basic Hand Tools: A good set of screwdrivers (flathead and Phillips), pliers, channel locks, and an adjustable wrench are a must.
• Socket Set: This is crucial. Bring a basic socket set with various sizes, adapters, and drives. You’ll be unscrewing a lot of bolts!
• Wrenches: Both open-end and box-end wrenches in common sizes.
• Hammer: For persuading stubborn parts.
• Hacksaw: Sometimes, you need to cut something that won't unbolt.
• Trim Tools: If you're going for interior parts like door panels, these plastic tools prevent scratches.
• Safety Glasses: Always protect your eyes from debris!
• Gloves: To keep your hands clean and protected.
• Rags: Things can get greasy.
• Bucket or Bag: To carry your newly acquired treasures.

For heavier parts like an engine or transmission, the staff will often help you load them up. For more tips on what to bring, check out this guide: What to Bring to a Junkyard.

Cash for Junk Cars

Riverside Salvage Inc is an established auto wrecking and salvage yard, and like many places in the automotive industry, they deal with vehicles that have reached the end of their road. While they excel at selling quality used auto parts and even used cars, the public information doesn't explicitly state that they actively advertise buying “junk cars for cash” from the general public.

However, given they are a salvage yard, it's highly likely they acquire vehicles for their parts inventory. They do accept cash payments for what they sell, but if you're looking to sell your vehicle, especially a junk car, your best bet is to contact them directly at (314) 385-8845 to ask about their process for buying unwanted vehicles and what conditions they accept.

Other Junkyards Nearby

St. Louis is a hub for the automotive industry, and as such, there are several other salvage yards and junkyards near Riverside Salvage Inc. However, Riverside Salvage often gets a shout-out from customers for its friendly staff and reasonable parts prices, especially compared to some of the bigger chains.

Here’s a quick comparison:

Aspect	Riverside Salvage Inc	Other Junkyards (General)
Location	155 Humboldt Ave, St. Louis, MO 63147	Various locations across St. Louis metro area
Customer Service	Friendly, knowledgeable staff, no “attitude”	Can vary, some might have less hands-on help
Pricing	Known for being reasonable and competitive	Varies widely by yard and part
Services	Used, new, rebuilt parts; auto sales; restoration	Typically focus on used parts; less info on new/restoration
Reviews & Ratings	Strong 4.4/5 average from 700+ reviews	Ratings vary; some large chains might have lower ratings

While there are other options, Riverside Salvage Inc stands out as a reliable junkyard with a solid reputation for helping customers find the right parts without hassle.

Common Questions

Got more questions? Here are some common ones people ask about Riverside Salvage Inc:

• What types of services does Riverside Salvage Inc provide?
  They offer a wide selection of used and rebuilt auto parts, some new parts, auto supplies, used engines, and even automobile restoration services. You can browse their yard for parts or get staff assistance for heavier items.
• What are the business hours of Riverside Salvage Inc?
  You can visit them from Monday to Saturday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. They are closed on Sundays, so plan your treasure hunt accordingly! For tips on the best times to visit, see: Best Hours to Visit a Used Auto Parts Junkyard.
• What payment methods are accepted at Riverside Salvage?
  It's a straightforward system: cash only. Make sure you hit the ATM before you head over!
• Do customers need to bring their own tools or can they use tools at the yard?
  You'll need to bring your own basic hand tools for pulling parts yourself. For heavy components like an engine or transmission (mechanical device), the yard staff will typically assist with their own specialized equipment, like lifts or hoists, to safely remove and load them.
• Is it possible to get assistance from knowledgeable staff when selecting parts?
  Absolutely! The staff are described as friendly and knowledgeable mechanics. They can help you find suitable components and are often praised for their helpful attitude.
• How is the parking and access situation at the salvage yard?
  Riverside Salvage Inc offers ample parking space and has wheelchair-accessible entrances, making it convenient for all visitors.

Whether you’re fixing up your own ride or helping a buddy, Riverside Salvage Inc is a reliable choice for quality used parts in St. Louis.