Piper Auto Salvage: Bloomfield, Iowa’s Premier Auto Recycling Facility

Establishment and History

Piper Auto Salvage (607 S East St, Bloomfield, IA 52537) has been a fixture in the Bloomfield community since its establishment in 1972, serving southern Iowa’s automotive needs for nearly five decades. The salvage yard specializes in providing quality used auto parts for both domestic and foreign vehicles.

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The facility’s ownership history reveals interesting connections within the local automotive recycling industry. While Rick and Vicky Piper have been associated with operating auto salvage businesses in the Bloomfield area, Chris Piper and his brother also owned Piper Auto Salvage for approximately 30 years before transitioning to farming around 2019.

Like many successful salvage yards in Iowa, Piper Auto Salvage has demonstrated remarkable longevity in an industry where businesses typically operate for 30–50+ years, making it a trusted resource for affordable auto parts throughout the region.

Services and Operations

As a full-service auto salvage yard, Piper Auto Salvage handles all aspects of part retrieval and testing. Unlike self-service yards where customers remove parts themselves, Piper’s staff manages the removal process to ensure quality and proper handling.

The facility has developed a reputation for thorough quality control procedures. Every part undergoes inspection before sale, with staff verifying functionality and condition. This attention to detail has helped establish trust with both individual customers and repair shops throughout southern Iowa.

If you’re looking to sell your junk car for cash, Piper Auto Salvage purchases vehicles in any condition, offering competitive prices for unwanted cars.

Vehicle Inventory and Specialization

Piper Auto Salvage maintains an extensive inventory of late model vehicles spanning both domestic and foreign makes. Their selection includes:

• American-made vehicles: Ford, Chevrolet, Dodge, RAM, and other domestic brands
• Foreign vehicles: Toyota, Honda, Nissan, BMW, Mercedes, and other imported makes
• Vehicle types: Cars, SUVs, and trucks of various sizes

The yard’s focus on late model inventory ensures customers have access to parts that fit more recent vehicles, addressing a common challenge at older salvage yards that might lack newer model parts. This approach particularly benefits those seeking parts for vehicles manufactured within the past 10–15 years.

For those looking for specific suspension parts or other critical components, Piper’s inventory system helps match customers with compatible replacements, even across different makes and models when appropriate.

Popular Auto Parts

At Piper Auto Salvage, certain high-value parts consistently rank as bestsellers due to their significant cost savings compared to new replacements. These sought-after items include:

Major Mechanical Assemblies

• Engines: Complete motor assemblies offering substantial savings over new or remanufactured options
• Transmissions: Both automatic and manual transmissions, often costing thousands less than new units
• Rear-end differentials: Critical drivetrain components that can be prohibitively expensive when new

Body and Exterior Parts

• Doors: Complete door assemblies with interior panels, window regulators, and glass
• Hoods: Often damaged in front-end collisions, making used replacements popular
• Fenders and bumpers: Common collision repair items that are easily replaced with salvaged parts
• Trunk lids: Frequently sought for collision repairs or color-matching projects

Wheels and Suspension

• Alloy wheels: Factory wheels that maintain proper fitment and appearance
• Shock absorbers and struts: Suspension components that retain good function when properly tested
• Control arms: Critical suspension parts that can be significantly cheaper used

Electrical and Drivetrain

• Alternators: Essential charging system components that are often refurbished
• Starters: High-failure items that remain cost-effective when purchased used
• ECU modules: Expensive engine control computers that function perfectly when properly tested
• Fuel pumps: Often replaced preventatively in older vehicles

Unlike consumable items (such as belts, filters, and brake pads), these parts maintain their value and functionality when properly inspected, making them ideal candidates for recycling through salvage operations like Piper Auto Salvage.

Service Area

Piper Auto Salvage serves a wide range of communities throughout southern Iowa and northern Missouri. Customers regularly travel from these nearby cities and towns to find affordable auto parts:

• Ottumwa
• Fairfield
• Oskaloosa
• Kirksville
• Pella
• Fort Madison
• Keokuk
• Burlington
• Centerville
• Albia
• Eddyville

This regional reach demonstrates the facility’s reputation for quality parts and service, drawing customers from communities within approximately 60–70 miles of Bloomfield. The yard’s ability to ship nationwide via UPS also extends its service area well beyond these immediate communities.

Parts Compatibility and Interchange System

While Piper Auto Salvage doesn’t explicitly advertise a formal interchange system, they employ several effective methods to help customers find compatible parts:

1. Inventory Management: The yard maintains extensive records of their domestic and foreign vehicle inventory, allowing staff to manually cross-reference parts compatibility across different makes and models.
2. Customer Support: Employees provide personalized assistance through phone, email, or in-person visits, helping identify alternatives when exact matches aren’t available.
3. Quality Verification: Every part undergoes inspection prior to sale, reducing compatibility concerns and ensuring proper function.
4. Extended Warranty Options: The yard’s confidence in their compatibility matching is reflected in their warranty program, which includes a standard 101-day warranty and optional extended coverage.

For customers seeking specific OEM parts like engine parts or interior components, the staff can help identify which vehicles in their inventory might provide compatible replacements, even when they’re from different models or years.

Warranty Information

Piper Auto Salvage offers a comprehensive warranty program that provides customers with peace of mind when purchasing used auto parts:

Standard 101-Day Warranty

• Duration: 101 days from purchase (approximately 3.4 months)
• Coverage: Replacement of defective parts
• Restrictions: 30,000-mile limit for commercial use
• Exclusions: Labor costs for installation, associated replacement costs (gaskets, seals, etc.)

Extended Premium Protection Plan

• Duration: 3 years from purchase date
• Coverage: Part replacement plus labor reimbursement up to $65 per hour
• Requirements: Must be purchased before the part leaves their facility
• Eligibility: Parts must be explicitly labeled “rebuilt” to qualify

This two-tier warranty structure allows customers to choose their level of protection based on the part’s criticality and their budget. For high-value items like engines or transmissions, the extended warranty offers substantial protection against unexpected failures.

The labor reimbursement feature of the extended plan is particularly valuable, as installation costs can often exceed the part price for major components. This comprehensive coverage demonstrates Piper Auto Salvage’s confidence in their parts quality.

Tools and Equipment Requirements

For customers visiting Piper Auto Salvage to extract parts themselves, bringing the right tools is essential for successful and safe part removal. While the search results don’t explicitly detail their tool policy, standard salvage yard protocols typically require:

General Extraction Tools

• Socket sets (metric and SAE)
• Wrenches (adjustable, torque wrench)
• Pliers (needle-nose, locking)
• Impact driver/drill
• Safety gear: gloves, eye protection, sturdy shoes

Part-Specific Tools

It’s always recommended to call ahead and confirm specific tool requirements or restrictions before visiting. Some salvage yards limit certain tools like cutting torches or jacks for safety reasons.

If you’re looking to find a used car hood or other large body panels, planning your tool selection appropriately can make the difference between a successful salvage trip and a frustrating experience.

Cash for Junk Cars Program

Piper Auto Salvage actively purchases damaged and unwanted vehicles from the public. Their cash-for-cars program accepts vehicles in virtually any condition, making it a convenient option for those looking to sell problematic or end-of-life vehicles.

Key features of their vehicle buying program include:

• Acceptance of all conditions: From minor damage to complete non-runners
• Simplified process: Streamlined paperwork and quick transactions
• Competitive pricing: Fair market value based on vehicle condition and salvageable parts
• Environmental responsibility: Proper recycling of automotive fluids and materials

This program complements their parts sales operation by providing a steady stream of vehicles for dismantling, ensuring fresh inventory regularly cycles through the yard. For sellers, it offers a hassle-free way to dispose of unwanted vehicles while recovering some value.

Hours of Operation

Piper Auto Salvage operates Monday through Friday with business hours listed as either 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM or 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM depending on the source. Available information suggests they are closed on weekends (Saturday and Sunday).

For the most current hours information or to confirm weekend availability, customers should contact the business directly at (641) 664–1820.

These standard business hours align with typical auto salvage yard operations throughout Iowa, focusing on weekday service for both wholesale and retail customers.

Other Junkyards in Bloomfield

For comparison shopping or specialized needs, there’s another notable salvage yard operating in Bloomfield:

Spilman Auto Parts Inc
Located at 20311 Old Highway 2, Bloomfield, IA 52537, approximately 5 miles northwest of Piper Auto Salvage. This facility has operated as a full-service salvage yard since 1942, offering:
– Used and new aftermarket auto parts
– 24-hour towing services
– Daily deliveries to Ottumwa and Kirksville, MO, with weekly delivery routes extending 100 miles east/west
– International shipping capabilities

When comparing the two yards, Spilman appears to offer a broader range of services and newer part options (including remanufactured parts), while Piper maintains a focused salvage operation. Both operate with standard weekday business hours.

For customers seeking used fuel pumps or other specific parts, checking inventory at both facilities might yield the best results.

Common Questions About Visiting Auto Salvage Yards

When visiting Piper Auto Salvage or similar facilities, keeping these common questions in mind will help ensure a successful, safe experience:

1. What tools can I bring to the salvage yard?

Most junkyards restrict tools with open flames (e.g., blowtorches) and jacks due to safety risks. Approved tools vary, so check the facility’s website beforehand. For example, Piper Auto Salvage likely prohibits items that could destabilize vehicles or ignite hazards. Always prioritize yard-provided tools, such as wheelbarrows, to avoid injuries.

2. What safety procedures should I follow?

Prioritize protective clothing (sturdy shoes, gloves, long sleeves) to shield against sharp metal and debris. Use safe lifting techniques: bend at the knees, avoid overhead lifting, and team up to handle heavy parts. Avoid alcohol or drugs to ensure sober decision-making and coordination.

3. What should I wear for a salvage yard visit?

Opt for closed-toe shoes, long pants, and gloves to protect against cuts, punctures, and physical strain. Avoid loose clothing that could snag on metal. Consider eye protection if working with abrasive parts.

4. How do I handle heavy auto parts?

Use wheelbarrows provided by the yard to transport bulky items like engines or transmissions. For large parts, ask for assistance to distribute weight evenly and avoid muscle strain. Never lift over your head, as sudden drops can cause injury.

5. What items are prohibited in salvage yards?

Restricted items include alcohol, open-flame tools, jacks, and pets. Intoxication increases injury risks, while pets face biohazards (e.g., antifreeze) and may distract workers. Some yards also ban cigarettes or lighter use near flammable materials.

6. Can I bring my pet?

No. Pets pose risks of injury or attack in cluttered environments. They may ingest hazardous substances like oil or antifreeze, which are toxic to animals. Always leave pets at home for their safety and yours.

7. How do I handle hazardous materials?

Avoid direct contact with oil, antifreeze, or battery acid. Wear gloves and eye protection if handling these substances. Follow the yard’s disposal guidelines, as improper handling can pollute the environment or cause chemical burns. Ask staff for guidance on handling contaminated parts.

For customers specifically interested in finding quality used wheels and tires, additional preparation may be needed to ensure proper fitment and compatibility.

Piper Auto Salvage is a long-standing business located at 607 South East Street in Bloomfield, Iowa. Since its inception in the early 1970s, it has been a go-to place for locals to find quality used auto parts at an affordable price.

The salvage yard is well maintained, with rows of salvage cars and trucks that can be browsed through to potentially find the right part needed for repair. In addition to car parts, Piper Auto Salvage also offers scrap metal dealing services. This provides customers with an opportunity to recycle materials that may otherwise end up in landfills and cause pollution as well as help reduce their carbon footprint.

Along with these services, Piper Auto Salvage also has a junkyard filled with used auto parts that can be reused to help reduce costs associated with repair jobs. All major car brands are represented and their staff is knowledgeable about all types of vehicles so customers can get the best advice on what part will fit their vehicle. With experienced staff, competitive pricing and quality parts, Piper Auto Salvage has been providing Bloomfield citizens with quality service for four decades!

Real customer testimonials

rudder727

Rated this company 1/5

Their website was nice and was able to find the part I needed at a good price. The only problem is I paid and never heard back. No shipping details or anything. It has been over 3 weeks and I don't think my part is coming.

Jesse Atkinson

Rated this company 1/5

I needed a TCM for my pickup truck and just because Chevrolet is behind and you can't get them right now this is not the only salvage yard that is doing it but price gouge the part that brand new is only $599 and they want you to pay $3, 000 for a used one that's just ridiculous

Christopher Howe

Rated this company 5/5

Awesome service!.got my Hardtop for an affordable price! They were extra busy and working hard and friendly. They even had cute dogs and cats so that's always a plus. Thank you Piper Auto Salvage!

Andy Taylor

Rated this company 5/5

Looking for a hard to find drivers door panel, Viki found one, shipped it out. I received it in 2 days! Unfortunately it had some shipping damage. They not only credited me, but located one at another business. Great to deal with, honest and professional.

Mark Gregory

Rated this company 5/5

I had an issue with my diesel truck, especially at highway speed. Tried several things and finally decided to try the ECM. Salvage yard checked the computer and Piper had one. I called, they had the exact one I needed, based on the engine code. They told me exactly what I would get with one little crack on the ECM. Came in just a few days. I installed and my truck runs just like it should. I hope I don't need any more parts like this, but Piper is one place I would buy them from again.