Best Junk Yards in Illinois - Reviews, Perks & Phones

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

💡 Tip: Filter by City to view the best junkyards in your area.

  • 1
    Kertow Auto Salvage

    Kertow Auto Salvage

    1123 IL-48, Taylorville, IL 62568

    Salvage Yard / Used Auto Parts / Junk Car Removal / Towing Service

    5/5 - 3 reviews  open now


          Meghan L. Google Review

    "Found what we needed, but it was attached to a junked car. They had no hesitation to get it for us so we could get our car back on the road (bad tire!). Then while we were there, I spotted a car..."


  • 💵 Want to sell your car in Illinois?

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  • 2
    Brothers Auto Salvage

    Brothers Auto Salvage

    5511 State Rte 150, Steeleville, IL 62288

    Salvage Yard / Used Auto Parts / Junk Car Removal

    3.7/5 - 3 reviews 


          Jonathan W. Google Review

    "Brothers auto salvage is great with setting expectations as far as timing and very respectful, having guys show up at your house to make a purchase can put you on edge. But, as my character is..."


  • 3
    Big Daddy Scrap

    Big Daddy Scrap

    4441 W 1000 Rd S, Kankakee, IL 60901

    Scrap Metal Dealer / Used Auto Parts / Self Service / Junk Car Removal / Towing Service

    5/5 - 3 reviews  open now


          Ryan R. Google Review

    "Very honest prices and helpful staff! There was nothing on my ticket that was questionable and I actually felt like I got a very fair price for my work sorting and processing what I had. I..."


  • 4
    Lemont Scrap Processing Ltd

    Lemont Scrap Processing Ltd

    16229 New Ave, Lemont, IL 60439

    Junkyard / Used Auto Parts / Self Service / Junk Car Removal

    3.7/5 - 3 reviews 


          Nunya Google Review

    "No issues get in and out. They have a clear shot to get at the scale. The usually have employees outside to direct you to where you can dump your scrap. There's also a cool Easter egg if you want..."


  • 5
    Quick Auto Recycling

    Quick Auto Recycling

    11N302 Gale St, Elgin, IL 60123

    Salvage Yard / Junk Car Removal / Towing Service

    5/5 - 2 reviews 


          Gustavo G. Google Review

    "Paid me cash for my junk car and best of all they picked up my car within the hour as I got stranded in a restaurant parking lot. The driver even took off the license plates for me."


  • 6
    Rock City Auto Parts

    Rock City Auto Parts

    2535 20th St, Rockford, IL 61104

    Salvage Yard / Used Auto Parts / Self Service / Shipping Available

    3.7/5 - 3 reviews 


          Frank V. Google Review

    "After a rough day dealing with life's curveballs. I called them up and they gave me a price over the phone and just like they said "if it doesn't work bring it back and we'll give you another one."..."


  • 7
    Y Yard

    Y Yard

    8485 US-45, Effingham, IL 62401

    Salvage Yard / Used Auto & Truck Parts / Shipping Available

    3.2/5 - 5 reviews  open now


          Robert E. SalvageParts Review

    Lost all trust and confidence.

    "After assurance that they had the part, confirmed by part number, model, year, and knowledge of the OEM part price, I agreed to a purchase. Drove 1 1/2 hours to get there. It was ready as..."


  • 8
    Dales Salvage

    Dales Salvage

    381 Camelia Rd, Flora, IL 62839

    Salvage Yard / Used Auto Parts / Junk Car Removal / Towing Service

    3.7/5 - 3 reviews  open now


          Jessica D. Google Review

    "We ran out of gas and Dales not only rescued us but made sure we got to the gas station ok too. Thank you so much for being solid humans!."


  • 9
    Mack's Auto Recyclers

    Mack's Auto Recyclers

    1309 Kerr Ave, Urbana, IL 61802

    Used Car Dealer / Used Auto Parts / Self Service / Junk Car Removal

    3.7/5 - 3 reviews  open now


          T P. Google Review

    "They came thru for the pickup and was much appreciated. Great service :)."


  • 10
    Thompson Auto Wreckers

    Thompson Auto Wreckers

    5049 S 1400W Rd, Chebanse, IL 60922

    Salvage Yard / Used Auto & Classic Car Parts / Self Service

    5/5 - 4 reviews  open now


          Jonathan R. SalvageParts Review

    Totally prepared

    "Thompson's has all the parts and advice you could need, regardless of year, make, or model you're working with. Thankfully I don't have to send others to get what I need..."


🤓 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.

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FAQs about junkyards in Illinois

What legal requirements do I need to meet to sell my car to a junkyard in Illinois?

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In order to sell your car to a junkyard in Illinois, 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 Illinois 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 Illinois 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 Illinois DMV for the most up-to-date information and forms.

Can I sell a junk car without a title in Illinois?

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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 Illinois?

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

  • 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.

How do I remove a part from a junkyard?

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If you are planning on removing a part from a vehicle yourself, be sure to take precautions to avoid injury. Be aware of your surroundings and be careful not to overexert yourself. You should also ask the staff for assistance if needed. We recommend that you bring:

  • Pliers
  • Ratchets
  • Wrenches
  • Sawsall
  • Screw drivers
  • Hammer
  • Impact driver
  • Extensions
  • Sockets SAE and Metric
  • Breaker bar
  • Penetrating Fluid

Do they offer shipping?

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Yes, many of them ship parts. However, there may be additional shipping charges. Be sure to ask about shipping charges before you buy any parts.

Can they ask me for an entry fee?

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Some junkyards may require you to pay a small entrance or admission fee (usually a few bucks) in order to enter their facilities. With this money they can cover their administrative and maintenance costs and ensure that they receive customers who are truly interested in parts.

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.

How can I find the closest junkyard near my location

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If you're around Illinois, the list above presents a range of trustworthy local junkyards and salvage yards. Feel free to browse their services and get in touch with them! To explore additional options or scout out other areas, we recommend using our junkyard locator. It'll help you pinpoint the finest junkyards nearby..