Sam's Riverside Auto and Truck Parts and Salvage In Des Moines IA

About Sam's Riverside Auto and Truck Parts and Salvage

If your ride is feeling a bit under the weather, or you're just looking for that specific part to bring an old project back to life, Sam's Riverside Auto and Truck Parts and Salvage might just be your new best friend. Located right in the heart of Des Moines, IA, at 3900 Vandalia Rd, Des Moines, IA 50317, this spot has been a go-to for car guys and gals for decades.

Sam's Riverside isn't some fly-by-night operation. They've been helping folks get their vehicles back on the road for over 45 years! That kind of longevity in the automotive salvage and used auto parts world tells you they know their stuff. While the full history of founders isn't shouting from the rooftops, their steady presence under the guidance of folks like General Manager Scott Frank (as of 2011) shows they're run by experienced hands.

They specialize in both buying and selling repairable vehicles, which means they've got a constantly changing inventory of cars, light trucks, SUVs, motorcycles, and even bigger equipment. And when it comes to parts, they're loaded! You can find everything from entire engines and transmissions to heavy truck parts, body cuts, replacement glass, and wheels. It's a real treasure chest for anyone needing to fix their ride without breaking the bank.

Looking for more options in the area? Check out other Salvage yards in Iowa.

Services Offered at Sam's Riverside

Sam's Riverside Auto and Truck Parts and Salvage isn't just a place to find a part; it's a hub for all things related to getting that vehicle back in shape. They focus on making it easy for you to find what you need, whether it's a whole vehicle or just a tiny piece.

Types of Services

• Buying and Selling Repairable Vehicles: They're always on the lookout for damaged vehicles that still have life left in them. This means their lot is constantly rotating with fresh wrecks and salvage autos and trucks, giving you plenty of options for a project car or a cheap fix.
• Auto Parts Store: Think of it as a huge, organized warehouse filled with used auto parts. They've got a massive inventory of parts for cars and trucks, ready for you to pick up.
• Sales of Used Parts: This is where you can really save money. Instead of paying top dollar for new parts, you can find quality used components that do the job just as well, often for a fraction of the price. Perfect for when you need to fix your wife's car using junkyard parts!

Full-Service Support

While some places are “U-Pull-It” yards where you do all the work, Sam's Riverside leans more towards a full-service experience. They have a variety of parts already pulled and ready to go. Their staff is there to help you navigate their vast inventory online or on-site, making sure you find the exact part you need without getting your hands too dirty (unless you want to!).

Additional Assistance

• Customer Support: They pride themselves on having a dedicated team ready to answer your questions and help you with your purchase. No confused looks or eye-rolls here!
• Shipping Parts: While not explicitly stated as a standard service, it’s always a good idea to inquire. They might be able to help arrange shipping if you're not local.

Sam's Riverside Services at a Glance

Service Type	Description	Benefit to Customer
Buying & Selling Repairable Vehicles	Acquires and sells vehicles that are damaged but can be fixed up and put back on the road.	Great for finding project cars or vehicles that need a little love to become a reliable daily driver.
Auto Parts Store	Maintains a large, organized inventory of used auto parts for various makes and models.	Easy access to a wide range of parts, often already removed and ready for purchase.
Sales of Used Parts	Offers a wide selection of quality used parts for cars and trucks.	Significant cost savings compared to buying new parts, helping you to save money on repairs.
Customer Support	Knowledgeable staff on hand to assist with finding parts and navigating purchases.	Personalized help ensures you find the correct part quickly and hassle-free.

Operating Hours

Planning your visit? Make sure to note Sam's Riverside's hours so you don't show up when the gates are locked. It's always a good idea to check their specific department hours, especially if you're going for something specialized.

• Monday to Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Saturday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM (noon)
• Sunday: Closed

Remember, the heavy truck, wheel, and glass departments typically follow these same hours. A quick call ahead never hurts if you're making a special trip!

Vehicle Types You Can Find

Sam's Riverside isn't just about little cars; they've got a whole fleet of possibilities! Their inventory is pretty diverse, covering various vehicle types, which means a better chance of finding the perfect part for your ride.

Available Vehicle Types:

• Cars: From reliable daily drivers to potential project cars. They've had models like the Honda CRV EXL, Honda Odyssey Elite, Chevrolet Impala LTZ, and Buick Encore GX Avenir.
• SUVs: If you're needing parts for your sport utility vehicle, you might find a Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited or a Chevrolet Blazer RS.
• Light Trucks: Got a pickup that needs some love? They've stocked vehicles like the Ford Ranger XL STX, Ram 2500 Tradesman Crew Cab, and Chevrolet Colorado Z71 Crew Cab.
• Heavy Trucks: Yes, they even dabble in the big rigs! Look for parts or even whole trucks like the F-550 SD XL Dump and ProStar Cummins.
• Motorcycles: While specific models aren't always listed, they do include motorcycles in their buying and selling.
• Equipment: Beyond just vehicles, they also deal in various types of equipment, meaning an even broader range of salvage opportunities.

Newer and Late Model Vehicles:

Don't think it's all old clunkers! Sam's Riverside often has newer or late model vehicles in their inventory. Sometimes you'll find vehicles with surprisingly low mileage, like a Honda Odyssey Elite with only 3,132 miles or a Ram 2500 Tradesman Crew Cab with just 29 miles. These are often vehicles that were in accidents but still have plenty of good parts (or even the whole thing is fixable!).

Most Popular Auto Parts You'll Find

When you head to a salvage yard like Sam's Riverside, you're often looking for that hard-to-find car part or something that's just too pricey new. Here's a rundown of the quality used auto parts that people are always searching for:

Top Picks for Used Auto Parts:

• Engines and Transmissions: These are the big-ticket items. If your engine blew a gasket (or just blew up!) or your transmission is slipping like a greased pig, a used engine or transmission can save you a bundle. Sam's Riverside has a wide selection of these vital components.
• Alternators and Starters: While sometimes it's wise to buy these remanufactured, many folks grab used alternators and starters for a quick, affordable fix to get the vehicle humming again.
• Body Panels: Fenders, doors, hoods, and bumpers are always in demand, especially after a fender bender. Finding one in the right color can be like hitting the jackpot – saving you on paint costs!
• Mirrors and Lights: Broken side mirrors or cracked headlights/taillights are common issues. Used ones are often much cheaper than new OEM parts.
• Wheels: Damaged rims or simply looking for a spare? Wheels are a popular find at salvage yards.
• Glass: From windshields to side windows, sometimes used glass is the only option for older or specific models.
• Interior Bits: Seats, dashboards, trim pieces – if something inside your car is busted, you can often find a good replacement in a salvage yard.

Why Buy Used?

The main reason people flock to junkyards for parts is simple: money! Used parts are significantly cheaper than buying new, especially for major components. Plus, it's a great way to recycle and be kind to Mother Earth by giving parts a second life.

Commonly Purchased Used Auto Parts at Sam's Riverside

Category	Common Parts Found	Why They're Popular
Engine/Drivetrain	Complete Engines, Transmissions, Alternators, Starters	Major repairs, high new part cost, ideal for older vehicle recycling.
Body/Exterior	Fenders, Bumpers, Doors, Hoods, Mirrors, Headlights/Taillights	Collision repairs, high new part cost, often color-match available.
Driveline/Suspension	Axles, Control Arms, Struts, Springs, Driveshafts	Wear and tear replacements, accident damage, significant savings.
Electrical/Electronic	ECUs, Modules, Instrument Clusters	Expensive new, difficult to source new for older models.
Interior/Glass	Seats, Interior Trim, Windshields, Windows	Restoration projects, cosmetic repairs, cost-effective replacement.

Pricing for Auto Parts

Let's talk turkey about prices! While it would be awesome to give you a definitive price list, specific auto part prices from Sam's Riverside aren't posted online. This is pretty common for salvage yards because their inventory system is always changing, and prices can vary based on condition and demand.

To get the most up-to-date pricing for the part you need, your best bet is to reach out to them directly. Don't be shy!

Contact Information:

• Location: 3900 Vandalia Road, Des Moines, IA 50317
• Phone: 515-265-8044 (Local) or 800-383-2163 (Toll-Free)
• Email: [email protected]

Hours of Operation for Parts & Repairables (for contact purposes):

• Monday to Friday: 8am – 5pm
• Saturday: 8am – 12pm
• Sunday: Closed

Give them a call or shoot them an email with your vehicle's make, model, year, and the part you're looking for. They'll be able to check their online inventory and give you a quote!

Serving the Des Moines Area and Beyond

Sam's Riverside isn't just for folks living right in Des Moines. Being a well-established junkyard near a major city, they pull customers from all over central Iowa. People are often willing to drive a bit further for the right part and the right price!

Nearby Cities and Towns That Often Visit:

• Urbandale
• Johnston
• West Des Moines
• Clive
• Altoona
• Ankeny
• Indianola
• Ames (Home to Iowa State University, so plenty of student cars needing budget fixes!)
• And smaller spots like Prairie City, State Center, and Sully.

If you're in any of these areas, Sam's Riverside is likely your closest and most reliable source for used auto parts and repairable vehicles. It’s worth the drive to find the part you need and potentially save a significant amount of money!

The Interchange System: Finding the Right Fit

Ever wonder if a part from a different year or model of car will fit yours? That's where the “interchange system” comes in, and it's a huge help at places like Sam's Riverside Auto and Truck Parts and Salvage. It’s like a secret handshake between cars, letting you know what parts are compatible.

How It Works:

• Smart Software: Most reputable salvage yards use advanced computer systems and databases. When you ask for a part, the staff can punch in your vehicle's info.
• Cross-Referencing: The system then quickly tells them if that part (say, an engine or a specific headlight) can be found in other makes, models, or years. It’s like having a super-smart detective for car parts!
• Reducing Headaches: This process makes sure you get the right part you need, cutting down on wasted trips and incorrect purchases. No one wants to install a part only to find it doesn't quite fit!

Benefits for You, the Customer:

• More Options: If the exact part from your specific car isn't available, the interchange system can show you alternatives from other vehicles that will work just fine.
• Cost Savings: Using an interchangeable part can sometimes be even cheaper than one specifically for your model, helping you save money.
• Faster Repairs: With more options available, you're likely to find your part quicker, getting your car back on the road faster.
• Eco-Friendly: Reusing parts from different vehicles means less waste, which is a win for the environment!

While Sam's Riverside doesn't shout out their exact system name, rest assured they follow these industry best practices. Their knowledgeable staff and smart inventory system mean they can help you find compatible parts, even if you’re not sure about cross-vehicle fitment. It's a huge help when you're on the hunt for those tricky OEM parts!

Warranty Information

When you're buying used parts, especially from a junkyard, a common question is about warranties. After all, you want to make sure your money is well spent!

Based on the available information, there isn't a specific, publicly advertised warranty offered by Sam's Riverside Auto and Truck Parts and Salvage for their parts or vehicles. One customer review mentioned not having a warranty on a vehicle purchase, which suggests it's not a standard inclusion. However, this doesn't mean you're completely out of luck!

The best way to get the full scoop on any potential warranties, even limited ones, is to contact Sam's Riverside directly before you make a purchase. They can tell you about their specific policies for different parts or vehicles. It's always smart to ask!

Contact Them Directly For Warranty Details:

• Location: 3900 Vandalia Road, Des Moines, IA 50317
• Phone: 515-265-8044 (Local) or 800-383-2163 (Toll-Free)
• Email: [email protected]

Even if a part doesn't come with a written warranty, reputable salvage yards like Sam's Riverside are often praised for their customer service and willingness to help if an issue arises. It's always worth a conversation!

No Entry Fee!

Good news for your wallet! Unlike some other places, there's no mention of an entry fee to visit Sam's Riverside Auto and Truck Parts and Salvage. You won't have to shell out cash just to walk through the gate and browse their inventory.

This means you can pop in during business hours (check their best hours to visit) and check out their selection of repairable vehicles and car parts without any initial cost. It's a great way to explore what they have to offer before committing to a purchase.

Of course, always check their latest information or give them a call if you have any specific questions about their access policies or if they offer any special discounts.

Tools and Equipment Needed for Your Junkyard Adventure

While Sam's Riverside is more of a full-service yard (meaning they often have parts pulled for you), if you're planning on digging around or need to remove something yourself, having the right tools is key. Think of it like a scavenger hunt, but with wrenches!

Specific tools provided by Sam's Riverside are not detailed, so it's always safest to assume you should bring your own toolkit.

Your Essential Junkyard Toolkit:

• Socket Sets: Both SAE (Standard) and Metric sets are a must, along with ratchets (1/4″, 3/8″, 1/2″ drive) and extensions.
• Wrenches: Open-end and box-end wrenches, again, both SAE and Metric. A good crescent wrench is also handy.
• Pliers: Needle-nose, regular, and channel lock pliers for gripping and twisting.
• Wire Cutters: Essential for cutting wires and cables cleanly.
• Screwdrivers: Flathead and Phillips head, in various sizes.
• Breaker Bar: For those super stubborn bolts that just won't budge.
• Hammer and Pry Bar: Sometimes, a little persuasion is needed to get parts loose.
• Magnetic Pickup Tool: A lifesaesaver for when you drop that tiny bolt in a tight spot!
• Electric Impact Gun: If you have a portable one, it can be a huge time-saver for removing multiple fasteners quickly.

Important Safety Tips:

• Always wear sturdy closed-toe shoes.
• Gloves are a good idea to protect your hands.
• Safety glasses can prevent eye injuries from flying debris.
• Bring a flashlight, even on a sunny day, to see into dark spots under cars.
• Always be aware of your surroundings and any unstable vehicles. Follow all yard rules!

For more tips on what to bring, check out our guide on what to bring to a junkyard.

Cash for Junk Cars?

Do you have an old clunker taking up space in your driveway? You might be wondering if Sam's Riverside Auto and Truck Parts and Salvage will give you cash for your junk car. While the available information doesn't explicitly state “we buy junk cars for cash,” here's what we know:

• They specialize in buying and selling repairable vehicles, including wreck and salvage autos and trucks. This strongly suggests they are interested in vehicles in various conditions, even those that might seem like junk to you but have valuable parts or are indeed “repairable.”
• Their focus is on getting vehicles back on the road or recycling their components. So, if your old car still has good engine, transmission, body panels, or other parts, it has value to a salvage yard.

The best way to find out if they'll buy your specific junk car and what kind of money they'll offer is to contact them directly. Give them a call with your vehicle's year, make, model, and condition. You might be surprised how much cash you can get!

For more info on selling your unwanted car, check out our guide on how to sell your car online today.

YouTube Video

Want to see a bit more about what goes on at a junkyard? While we don't have a specific video for Sam's Riverside at this time, here's a peek into the world of automotive salvage:

Other Junkyards in Des Moines, IA

Sam's Riverside isn't the only game in town! Des Moines, IA, has a few other junkyards and salvage yards that might be worth checking out, depending on what you're looking for. It's always good to have options, especially when you're hunting for a specific car part or a repairable vehicle.

Competitors and Alternatives:

• YAW'S AUTO SALVAGE: Located at 919 SE 21st St, Des Moines, IA 50317. Known for excellent customer service and a decent selection of parts for cars. If you prefer a more personalized experience, Yaw's might be a good alternative.
• DON'S AUTO & TRUCK SALVAGE: You can find them at 1500 SE 30th St, Des Moines, IA 50317. Similar to Sam's Riverside in what they offer, providing another spot to search for salvage vehicles and quality parts.
• VANDER HAAG'S INC.: This larger operation is at 4444 Delaware Ave, Des Moines, IA 50313. They are known for a very extensive inventory, often specializing in commercial truck parts, so if you're looking for something heavy-duty, they could be your place.
• SCRAP PROCESSORS INC.: Found at 306 SE 5th St, Des Moines, IA 50309. This place focuses more on scrap metal, so while they handle vehicle recycling, they might be more for selling a junk car for scrap money than finding a specific used part.

While these other wrecking yards offer their own strengths, Sam's Riverside stands out with its long history, diverse inventory of both repairable vehicles and used auto parts, and dedicated customer service. Always call ahead to any junkyard to check their current inventory and hours before you head out!

Common Questions About Sam's Riverside

Got more questions buzzing in your head about Sam's Riverside Auto and Truck Parts and Salvage? We've got answers!

1. What types of vehicles and parts does Sam's Riverside sell?

They sell a wide range of vehicles, including repairable cars, SUVs, light trucks, motorcycles, and heavy trucks. For parts, you can find anything from complete engines and transmissions to heavy truck parts, wheels, replacement glass, and body cuts. If it's on a vehicle, chances are they might have it!

2. What is the physical environment like at Sam's Riverside?

Sam's Riverside is a bit unique for a salvage yard! They boast an indoor car showroom, which is a big deal. This means you can browse some of their “as-is” vehicles in a much more comfortable, controlled setting, away from the elements. The staff is right there to help you through the buying process.

3. How is the customer service at Sam's Riverside?

Customers generally give Sam's Riverside high marks for their customer service. The staff is often described as knowledgeable, honest, and easy to work with. They're not pushy salespeople, which makes the whole experience much more pleasant and relaxed.

4. What are the operating hours of Sam's Riverside?

They are open Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and on Saturdays from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM (noon). They are closed on Sundays. Remember, specific departments like auto parts might have slightly different Saturday closing times (12 PM for parts).

5. Does Sam's Riverside provide any services for vehicle removal or towing?

While they buy and sell vehicles, there's no direct mention of Sam's Riverside offering towing services. If you're selling a vehicle that needs to be towed, you might need to arrange that yourself or ask if they can recommend a local service.

6. How can I contact Sam's Riverside for more information or to inquire about specific vehicles or parts?

It's easy to get in touch! You can call them at 515-265-8044 (local) or toll-free at 800-383-2163. You can also send them an email at [email protected]. They even have dedicated phone numbers for specific departments like vehicle sales (515-265-1212) and heavy truck parts.