Best Junkyards in Vista - Reviews, Perks & Phones
California

Discover excellence in vehicle junkyads in Vista, CA with our selection of the 10 best, backed by real experiences of those who have already trusted their services.

  • 1
    Hard Rock 4x4

    Hard Rock 4x4

    1120 Simpson Way, Escondido, CA 92029

    Junkyard / Used Auto & Truck Parts

    4.7/5 - 3 reviews 


          Chris B. Google Review

    "The sheer amount of parts they have for jeeps is an awesome thing in of its self. The conflicting, "Yes, this is the part for your model and year of jeep, says one person. Then another says..."


  • 💵 Want to sell your car in Vista, CA?

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    2. Maximize your car's value by selling its parts individually through a classified ad.
    3. Contact junkyards directly from the list below.
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  • 2
    ABC Metals Recycling & Heavy Duty Truck Towing

    ABC Metals Recycling & Heavy Duty Truck Towing

    290 Vernon Way, El Cajon, CA 92020

    Junkyard / Junk Car Removal / Towing Service

    3.7/5 - 3 reviews 


          David T. Google Review

    "This place rocks,came and removed a heavy duty truck. My old moving truck was not in the best of shape.they came and got it and he was very Courteous and prompt was here when he said he was going..."


  • 3
    Ramona Auto Dismantling and Towing (24 hr Towing)

    Ramona Auto Dismantling and Towing (24 hr Towing)

    904 A St, Ramona, CA 92065

    Salvage Yard / Used Auto Parts / Shipping Available

    5/5 - 3 reviews 


          Bert H. Google Review

    "Wow, Juan and his staff have the most organized and well stocked auto recycling yard I’ve seen! After I managed to roll my Jeep, they had everything available to rebuild it better than new..."


  • 4
    Quick Cash For Car - Auto wrecker in San Diego, California

    Quick Cash For Car - Auto wrecker in San Diego, California

    4455 Murphy Canyon Rd #100 19, San Diego, CA 92123

    Auto Wrecker / Junk Car Removal

    5/5 - 3 reviews  open now


          Javiel U. Google Review

    "Quick Cash for Cars is a lifesaver! They made selling my junk car a breeze, offering a fair price and lightning-fast service. Professional and hassle-free—definitely my go-to for turning my..."


  • 5
    Payne's Junk Hauling & Demo Services

    Payne's Junk Hauling & Demo Services

    9835 Via Rita, Santee, CA 92071

    Junkyard

    5/5 - 3 reviews  open now


          Cedar W. Google Review

    "Full disclosure! I did a Google search and saw the closest name to me. Text him, BAM! Payne was at my home the same day to haul off a very heavy queen mattress. Price was WAY lower than I..."


  • 6
    Cardinal Auto Wrecking

    Cardinal Auto Wrecking

    725 Rock Springs Rd, Escondido, CA 92025

    Junkyard

    5/5 - 0 reviews 


          James T. SalvageParts Review

    "I have a 2002 Mustang Convertible w/v6, need a motor or sale. can you help me ?."


  • 7
    California Metals & Electronic

    California Metals & Electronic

    636 Front St, El Cajon, CA 92020

    Recycling Center / Used Auto Parts

    31 miles  5/5 - 3 reviews 


          Paige E. Google Review

    "Super friendly and always super fast. Omar and his wife have always treated my fiancé, Wade, and myself like family."


  • 8
    Pioneer Auto Wreckers

    Pioneer Auto Wreckers

    1416 Pioneer Way, El Cajon, CA 92020

    Auto Wrecker / Used Auto Parts / Towing Service

    3.7/5 - 3 reviews 


          Eric B. Google Review

    "Took my daughters car there because her engine needs to be replaced. Chief is the manager there and is a good guy! He helped me get the car into the yard, get it off the tow truck, and end..."


  • 9
    Sunny Salvage

    Sunny Salvage

    743 S Magnolia Ave #35, El Cajon, CA 92020

    Auto Wrecker

    31.6 miles  5/5 - 1 reviews 


          Pedro J. Google Review

    "Thank you James for exchange my boots,my ankles will thank you too!!!."


  • 10
    Miller Metals Co.

    Miller Metals Co.

    636 Front St, El Cajon, CA 92020

    Recycling Center

    31 miles  5/5 - 1 reviews 


          Zoe's W. Google Review

    "Every employee has a positive, friendly attitude."


🤓 Did you know... The businesses shown here have been selected and ordered based on both our quality criteria and reviews shared by real people. Learn more about our selection and ranking criteria.

FAQs about junkyards in Vista

What legal requirements do I need to meet to sell my car to a junkyard in Vista, CA?

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In order to sell your car to a junkyard in Vista, CA, you typically need to meet these legal requirements:

  1. Proof of Ownership: You must provide proof of ownership, which is usually your vehicle title. If you don't have the title, contact the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to obtain a duplicate.
  2. Valid Identification: You'll need to show a valid government-issued photo ID, like a driver's license or passport.
  3. Complete a Bill of Sale: Some junkyards may ask you to complete a Bill of Sale, indicating the sale price and stating that you're selling the vehicle "as-is."
  4. Release of Liability: Submit a Release of Liability to the Vista, CA DMV to remove your liability for the vehicle once it's sold. You can do this online or by mailing the appropriate form.
  5. Smog Certificate: Depending on the age and location of your vehicle, you may need to provide a valid smog certificate. Junkyards often handle this if required.
  6. Remove License Plates: Before handing over your vehicle, remove the license plates. You can either transfer them to another vehicle or return them to the DMV.
  7. Payment: Ensure you receive payment for the vehicle. The payment method may vary, so discuss this with the junkyard beforehand.
  8. Cancellation of Insurance: Contact your auto insurance company to cancel coverage on the sold vehicle.

Please note that specific requirements can vary depending on the junkyard and the condition of your vehicle. Always check with the junkyard you plan to sell to and refer to the California DMV for the most up-to-date information and forms.

Can I sell a junk car without a title in Vista, CA?

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If you try to sell a car without a title, your choices might be more restricted than those of other sellers who have a readily available title.

  • If you are still in the process of paying off a car loan, the likelihood is that the bank or lienholder still possesses your car's title. You must reach out to your bank to get a payoff amount. It's important to ensure that your car's selling price can cover it.
  • If your car title is missing, lost, or stolen and you're wondering how to sell your car, you need to request a replacement title.
  • If your car is totaled, has a salvage title, has no title at all, or you have no way to obtain a valid title, car junkyards often buy cars without a title an pay you in cash. However, the lack of a title might lower your selling price.

How much money can I expect to get for my car at a junkyard in Vista, CA?

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How much money can I expect to get for my car at a junkyard in Vista, CA?

  • The condition of your car.
  • The make and model of your car.
  • The current market value of scrap metal.
  • The demand for parts for your car model.

In general, you can expect to get between $100 and $500 for your junk. However, if your vehicle is in good condition or has valuable parts, you may be able to get more.

Are there any junkyards in Vista, CA that pay more for cars than others?

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Yes, some junkyards in Vista, CA may offer higher payouts for cars based on factors like your car's make, model, condition, and location. To find the best offer, it's advisable to contact multiple junkyards in your area and compare their quotes. Additionally, you can explore junk car buyers that specialize in certain vehicle makes or have a reputation for offering competitive prices.

Do they offer shipping?

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Yes, many junkyards and salvage yards offer shipping services for the parts you purchase. However, it's essential to check with the specific yard you're dealing with, as policies can vary. Here's what you should consider:

  1. Local Pickup: Some yards may require you to pick up parts in person, which can be cost-effective if you're nearby.
  2. Regional Shipping: Many junkyards offer regional shipping, which can be relatively affordable if you're within a certain distance from the yard.
  3. Nationwide Shipping: Some larger yards provide nationwide shipping, allowing you to get parts delivered across the country. This option can be more expensive due to longer distances.
  4. Shipping Costs: Shipping costs can vary based on the size and weight of the part, as well as the distance it needs to travel.
  5. Shipping Time: Ask about the estimated shipping time to ensure it meets your needs. Before purchasing a part, inquire about the yard's shipping options, costs, and policies. Also, verify the condition of the part and its compatibility with your vehicle to avoid any issues upon delivery.

Before purchasing a part, inquire about the yard's shipping options, costs, and policies. Also, verify the condition of the part and its compatibility with your vehicle to avoid any issues upon delivery.

Do they offer part installation services?

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Some offer part installation services, but not all. It is important to contact the business in advance to ask if they offer this service and to get a quote.

If you are considering having a junkyard install a part for you, there are a few things to keep in mind:

  • Make sure the company is reputable and that their mechanics are qualified to install the part.
  • Get everything in writing, including the price of the part, the cost of installation, and the junkyard's warranty policy.
  • Be prepared to wait a few days for the installation to be completed. Junkyards are often busy and may not be able to install the part immediately.

If you are not comfortable having a junkyard install a part for you, you can always take the part to a mechanic or auto body shop. However, this will likely cost more than having the junkyard install the part for you.

How do I know if a junkyard is reputable?

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Here are some tips on how to know if a junkyard is reputable:

  • Check online reviews. This is a good way to get an idea of what other customers have experienced with the junkyard. Look for reviews that mention the junkyard's prices, customer service, and the quality of the parts they sell.
  • Ask for recommendations. Talk to your friends, family, and neighbors to see if they have any recommendations for junkyards. You can also ask your local mechanic or auto body shop for recommendations.
  • Visit the junkyard in person. This will give you a chance to see the junkyard's facilities and meet the staff. Look for a junkyard that is clean and organized. The staff should be friendly and knowledgeable.
  • Ask questions. Don't be afraid to ask the junkyard staff questions about their prices, the parts they have available, and their warranty policies. If the staff is hesitant to answer your questions or seems to be giving you vague answers, that's a red flag.
  • Be wary of junkyards that offer to pay you in cash. Reputable junkyards will typically pay you by check or money order. If a junkyard offers to pay you in cash, it could be a sign that they are not a legitimate business.

What is the difference between a junkyard and a salvage yard?

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While the terms are often used interchangeably, a salvage yard may focus more on recycling and reselling parts.

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