About Van Born Auto Wrecking

While the exact start date isn’t set in stone, Van Born Auto Wrecking has been a trusted spot in Romulus since at least 1971. Just like many other wrecking yards and scrap yards across the Detroit metropolitan area, they likely got their start in the mid-20th century. This was a time when the automotive industry was booming, and folks needed a place to find affordable replacement parts and to responsibly recycle old cars and trucks. These businesses were often founded by local entrepreneurs who knew their way around a wrench and saw the need for practical, budget-friendly auto solutions.

At its heart, Van Born Auto Wrecking wears two hats: it’s a treasure trove where you can hunt for that perfect used part to fix your ride, and it’s also a skilled automobile repair shop ready to help you get your vehicle back on the road. They’re all about giving old cars a new lease on life by putting their valuable components back into service.

Services Offered at Van Born Auto Wrecking

Van Born Auto Wrecking isn’t just a place to pick up parts; it’s a complete automotive hub designed to serve a variety of needs. They offer a range of services for both the DIY mechanic and those who prefer to leave repairs to the pros.

While they offer quick and efficient service, there’s no clear info about them shipping parts across the country. Their main focus seems to be on helping out the local community right there in Romulus.

What Kinds of Vehicles Do They Have?

Finding the exact part you need often comes down to what vehicles a wrecking yard has in its inventory. For Van Born Auto Wrecking, publicly available details about specific car makes, models, or whether they have a lot of newer or older models aren’t clearly listed online. But don’t let that stop you!

Most good salvage yards in the Romulus area typically have a wide variety of vehicles. This can mean anything from classic older models (perfect for finding that specific, rare part) to more recent cars and trucks that might have been involved in an accident. Their inventory is always changing as new junk cars arrive daily, so what’s available one day might be gone the next.

To get the most accurate and up-to-the-minute info on what kinds of vehicles they currently have on site, your best bet is to give them a call directly. That way, you can check if they have what you’re looking for before you make the trip.

Popular Auto Parts You Can Find

When you visit a junkyard like Van Born Auto Wrecking, you’re usually on the hunt for those bigger, more expensive components that can really slash your repair bill. They’re experts at providing durable used components that serve as a smart, budget-friendly swap for brand-new parts.

Here’s a rundown of the most common and high-demand used parts folks often look for:

• Engines and Engine Components: Imagine saving big on complete engines, cylinder heads, or intake manifolds. A quality used engine can get your car running again without draining your wallet.
• Transmissions and Drivetrain Parts: Whether it’s the whole transmission or just a specific gear, these parts can be super expensive new, making used parts a smart choice. Check out our guide on buying used transmissions for tips.
• Body Panels: Had a fender bender? You can often find matching doors, fenders, hoods, and even bumpers for various vehicles.
• Suspension Parts: Control arms, steering racks, shocks, and struts are common finds that help restore your ride’s smooth feel.
• Radiators and Cooling System Parts: These are key for keeping your engine cool and are frequently available.
• Interior Parts: Need a new seat, dashboard piece, or door panel? These can be tricky to find new, making salvage yards a hidden gem for interior fixes.
• Electrical Components: Items like starters, alternators, and various sensors are often available and can save you a chunk of money.
• Fuel System Parts: Fuel pumps and fuel tanks are also common items salvaged from vehicles.
• Exhaust Components: Manifolds, catalytic converters, and mufflers are frequently sought after for repairs.

It’s generally smart to avoid buying used “wear-and-tear” items like belts, light bulbs, brake pads, or filters from a junkyard. These are usually cheaper and safer to buy new, as their lifespan and performance are critical for your vehicle’s safety.

How Do They Price Their Parts?

Just like most independent salvage yards, Van Born Auto Wrecking doesn’t put out a detailed price list online. This is pretty standard for the business because their inventory of used parts is always moving. The price of a particular part can depend on a bunch of factors: how rare it is, its condition, how many other people are looking for it, and even what they paid for the junk car it came from.

To get the most current and accurate pricing for the part you need, your best bet is always to contact them directly. Give them a call at (734) 722-8680. They’re typically open Monday through Saturday, from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, but it’s always smart to double-check their current business hours before you head over.

Serving the Local Community

Van Born Auto Wrecking is a valuable resource for drivers and mechanics all over Wayne County, MI. Folks often come from a number of nearby cities and towns to score affordable used auto parts or to sell their old vehicles. Their service area generally includes:

• Detroit
• Belleville
• Canton
• Dearborn
• Dearborn Heights
• Hamtramck
• Highland Park
• Inkster
• Lincoln Park
• Livonia
• Melvindale
• Plymouth
• River Rouge
• Southgate
• Taylor
• Trenton
• Wayne
• Westland
• Woodhaven
• Wyandotte
• New Boston

If you live in any of these areas and are looking for a reliable junkyard near you, Van Born Auto Wrecking is definitely a place to consider!

Finding the Right Part: Their Interchange System

When you’re trying to find a specific used part, you might wonder if it fits more than just one type of vehicle. This is where an “interchange system” can be a lifesaver. While Van Born Auto Wrecking is a solid place to find used and rebuilt auto parts, there’s no public info saying they use a super fancy, automated computer system to cross-reference parts across different car models. Many smaller, independent salvage yards operate a bit differently than the giant national chains.

Here’s how they most likely help you find the right part:

• Knowledgeable Staff: The folks working there usually have a ton of experience and know their stuff. They’ve seen countless cars and parts, so they can often tell you if a part from one vehicle might fit into another, even if the model isn’t exactly the same.
• Direct Communication: The best way to find out if they have the part you need, or if a similar part might fit, is to just call them up or visit in person. Tell them what you’re looking for, and they’ll check their inventory and share their expertise.
• Manual Research: They might use printed guides or basic digital records to help identify compatible parts, relying on their hands-on understanding of different car models and years.

So, don’t expect to find an online search tool to help you cross-reference parts numbers, but you can count on their staff’s experience! For the most accurate details on what parts fit your vehicle, it’s always best to chat directly with them.

Understanding Their Warranty (Or Lack Thereof)

When you buy used parts, especially from a salvage yard, one of the biggest questions is about warranties. After all, you want to make sure you’re getting a good deal and that the part will actually work. For Van Born Auto Wrecking, there’s no specific detailed information publicly available online about any used auto parts warranty they might offer. This includes things like how long a warranty might last, if there are extended options, or what exactly it covers.

It’s super important to remember that warranties on used parts can vary a lot from one junkyard to another. Some might offer a basic 30-day warranty, while others might not offer one at all. Before you hand over your hard-earned money, make sure you:

• Ask Directly: Call them at +1 734-722-8680 or visit them in person. Ask about their specific warranty policy for the parts you’re interested in.
• Understand the Terms: If they do offer a warranty, ask what it covers, what it excludes (like labor or if you misused the part), and what the return process is like.

Knowing this upfront can save you headaches and money down the road. For more general insights into what to expect, check out our guide on used auto parts warranty.

Entry Fees and Discounts

Good news! There’s no information available online suggesting that Van Born Auto Wrecking charges an entry fee to get into their yard. Many salvage yards, especially those that focus on pulling parts for customers, don’t have an entrance charge. This means you can visit and browse their offerings without paying just to get in.

Similarly, there are no specific details publicly advertised about any special discounts they might offer on parts or services. While it’s always a good idea to ask if they have any current specials when you call or visit, don’t expect to find a “coupon code” online.

Tools and Equipment Needed to Pull Used Auto Parts

When it comes to getting parts from a wrecking yard, a common question is: “Do I pull the parts myself, or do they do it for me?” Based on the info available, Van Born Auto Wrecking seems to operate more as a full-service parts provider and repair shop. This means they likely pull the parts for you.

Unlike “U-Pull-It” yards where you bring your own tools and dismantle the vehicle yourself, a full-service setup means their trained staff handles the removal. This is awesome if you’re not super comfortable with auto mechanics or just don’t have the right tools. It also helps make sure the part is removed correctly and safely.

So, while you probably won’t need to bring your own big tool kit to pull parts, it’s always a smart idea to have a basic set of tools in your car. This could be useful for checking the part’s fit when you get it, or for any quick adjustments. If you’re looking for tips on what tools *are* helpful to have when visiting any junkyard (just in case!), check out our guide on what to bring to a junkyard.

Selling Your Junk Car for Cash

Have an old clunker taking up space in your driveway? Van Born Auto Wrecking is definitely interested in buying your junk car! They make it super easy to turn your unwanted vehicle into quick cash.

Here’s what you need to know:

• They Buy Cars in Any Condition: Seriously, it doesn’t matter how rough your ride looks. Whether your car has a blown engine, has been burned, damaged, flooded, is non-running, old, or completely totaled – they’ll take it.
• Top Dollar and Guaranteed Quotes: They aim to pay you the most money for your vehicle and provide a guaranteed price quote, so you know exactly what you’ll get.
• Easy Payment Options: They pay in good old cash, but also accept credit and debit cards for their services.
• Convenient Pick-up: They often offer free towing and same-day pick-up, making the whole process incredibly simple and hassle-free.

This is a great way to recycle your old car and put some extra money in your pocket. It’s a win-win: you get rid of an eyesore, and they get more vehicles to pull valuable recycled auto parts from, helping the environment in the process!

Learn More About Van Born Auto Wrecking

Want to get a better idea of what goes on at a wrecking yard like Van Born Auto Wrecking? This video gives you a visual tour of the kinds of operations involved in vehicle recycling and highlights the important role places like these play in the automotive industry and for the environment.

Common Questions About Van Born Auto Wrecking

Here are some quick answers to frequently asked questions about this Romulus, MI salvage yard: