1. Quick Answer: Where Are the Main Junkyards in Tennessee?

The most clearly documented large self-service markets in Tennessee include:

• Nashville: Major self-service and used parts market
• Memphis: Large self-service network
• Knoxville: Serves eastern Tennessee and surrounding areas
• Chattanooga: Important regional market for southeastern Tennessee and northern Georgia

Current documented chain locations include:

• Pull-A-Part Nashville
• Pick Your Part Nashville
• Pull-A-Part Memphis
• Pick Your Part Memphis
• Pull-A-Part Knoxville
• Pick Your Part Chattanooga

Other Tennessee communities have independent salvage yards, auto recyclers and used parts businesses. Availability, service model and operating policies vary by business.

For a small component, a self-service yard can be practical when you have the tools and time to remove the part. For an engine, transmission or another heavy assembly, comparing shipped used parts can reduce the physical removal work.

2. Key Takeaways

• Nashville locations: Nashville has both Pull-A-Part and Pick Your Part self-service locations.
• Memphis locations: Memphis has both Pull-A-Part and Pick Your Part self-service locations.
• Knoxville market: Knoxville has a Pull-A-Part self-service location.
• Chattanooga market: Chattanooga has a Pick Your Part self-service location.
• Admission pricing: Current published admission is $2 regular and $1 VIP at Pull-A-Part's Nashville, Memphis and Knoxville locations.
• Alternative admission: Pick Your Part publishes $3 admission at its Nashville, Memphis and Chattanooga locations.
• Search tools: The major self-service operators publish vehicle inventory and parts search tools.
• Emissions testing: Tennessee no longer operates the former vehicle emissions testing programs that ended in 2022.
• Title regulations: Tennessee has specific salvage and rebuilt-title rules for vehicles rebuilt for road use.
• Fitment verification: A replacement engine or transmission still needs careful application and VIN verification even when statewide emissions testing is no longer required.
• Marketplace role: UAPP is a marketplace connecting buyers with verified independent sellers. UAPP does not own, warehouse, test, warranty, sell, or ship parts directly.

3. Junkyards in Nashville, Tennessee

Nashville is one of Tennessee's largest used auto parts markets. Buyers can choose between multiple self-service operations and traditional independent salvage businesses.

Pull-A-Part Nashville

Pull-A-Part Nashville is located at: 7114 Centennial Blvd., Nashville, TN 37209

The location operates as a self-service auto parts yard. Customers bring their own tools and remove the parts they need.

• Regular admission: $2
• VIP admission: $1
• Minimum entry age: 16
• Yard hours: 8:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
• Retail sales hours: 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
• Online vehicle inventory and parts interchange tools

The location's online tools can help identify a possible donor vehicle before traveling to the yard.

Pick Your Part Nashville

Pick Your Part Nashville is located at: 2030 Lucas Lane, Nashville, TN 37207

• Admission: $3
• Minimum entry age: 16
• Self-service parts removal
• Vehicle inventory search
• Parts search
• Parts pricing tools
• Interchange information

The location also states that wheelbarrows and engine hoists are supplied for larger parts. Customers are expected to bring their own tools and appropriate clothing.

Nashville Area Search Terms

Relevant local searches include:

• junkyards in Nashville TN
• Nashville junkyard
• self-service junkyard Nashville
• U Pull It Nashville
• used auto parts Nashville TN
• used engines Nashville TN
• used transmissions Nashville TN
• junkyards near Franklin TN
• junkyards near Hendersonville TN
• junkyards near Murfreesboro TN

4. Junkyards in Memphis, Tennessee

Memphis is another major Tennessee used auto parts market. The city has two clearly documented large self-service operations.

Pull-A-Part Memphis

Pull-A-Part Memphis is located at: 2955 Farrisview Blvd., Memphis, TN 38118

• Regular admission: $2
• VIP admission: $1
• Minimum entry age: 16
• Yard hours: 8:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
• Retail sales hours: 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
• Online vehicle inventory and parts search

The location allows customers to bring their own tools and remove parts from vehicles in the yard.

Pick Your Part Memphis

Pick Your Part Memphis is located at: 966 West Mitchell Road, Memphis, TN 38109

• Admission: $3
• Minimum entry age: 16
• Self-service parts removal
• Daily vehicle inventory updates
• Parts search
• Parts pricing tools
• Interchange information

The official location page states that wheelbarrows and engine hoists are supplied for larger components.

Memphis Area Search Terms

• junkyards in Memphis TN
• Memphis junkyard
• self-service junkyard Memphis
• U Pull It Memphis
• used auto parts Memphis TN
• used engines Memphis TN
• used transmissions Memphis TN
• junkyards near Bartlett TN
• junkyards near Germantown TN
• junkyards near Southaven MS

5. Junkyards in Knoxville, Tennessee

Knoxville serves eastern Tennessee and surrounding communities.

Pull-A-Part Knoxville

Pull-A-Part Knoxville is located at: 5800 Rutledge Pike, Knoxville, TN 37924

• Regular admission: $2
• VIP admission: $1
• Minimum entry age: 16
• Yard hours: 8:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
• Retail sales hours: 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
• Vehicle inventory search
• Parts interchange tools

The location uses a self-service model, so customers should bring the tools required for the specific component they plan to remove.

Knoxville is also a useful regional search market for buyers in Oak Ridge, Maryville, Sevierville, Morristown and nearby eastern Tennessee communities.

6. Junkyards in Chattanooga, Tennessee

Chattanooga is an important used auto parts market for southeastern Tennessee and nearby northern Georgia.

Pick Your Part Chattanooga

Pick Your Part Chattanooga is located at: 400 Workman Road, Chattanooga, TN 37410

• Admission: $3
• Minimum entry age: 16
• Self-service parts removal
• Vehicle inventory search
• Parts search
• Parts pricing tools
• Interchange information

The location states that customers should bring their own tools and that wheelbarrows and engine hoists are supplied for larger components.

Chattanooga can also serve buyers in Cleveland, Dalton, Ringgold, Fort Oglethorpe and nearby regional markets.

7. Other Tennessee Junkyard Markets

Tennessee has a broad network of independent salvage yards, auto recyclers and used parts businesses outside the four major documented chain markets.

• Murfreesboro: Murfreesboro and Rutherford County have independent salvage and recycling businesses serving Middle Tennessee. Buyers should verify whether a facility is self-service or full-service before traveling.
• Clarksville: Clarksville serves northwest Middle Tennessee and communities near the Kentucky border. Used auto parts and salvage businesses in the area may offer different removal and ordering models.
• Jackson: Jackson is an important West Tennessee regional market between Memphis and Nashville.
• Johnson City and the Tri-Cities: Johnson City, Kingsport and Bristol have independent salvage and specialty used parts businesses serving northeast Tennessee.
• Cookeville: Cookeville serves the Upper Cumberland region and provides access to used auto parts and automotive recycling businesses.
• Knoxville Area: Beyond the major Knoxville self-service location, the region includes independent salvage yards and recyclers in communities surrounding Knoxville.

Tennessee Statewide Search Strategy

When searching outside Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville and Chattanooga, use the city plus the exact part you need. Examples include:

• used engine in Murfreesboro TN
• used transmission in Clarksville TN
• used auto parts in Jackson TN
• junkyard near Johnson City TN
• salvage yard near Kingsport TN
• used OEM parts in Cookeville TN
• self-service junkyard near Knoxville TN

8. Tennessee Junkyard Admission Fees

Admission fees are not the same as the price of the part. Current published examples:

9. How Much Do Used Auto Parts Cost in Tennessee?

There is no single statewide price for a used engine, transmission, alternator, body panel or suspension component. The final price can depend on vehicle year, make and model, engine family, transmission type, part condition, donor mileage, part category, core charges, location, self-service removal, seller warranty terms, return policy and shipping requirements.

Large self-service operators publish individual part pricing through their online systems. This is more useful than quoting a single statewide average because prices can change as pricing schedules and inventory change.

10. Self-Service Junkyard vs. Online Used Auto Parts

The right purchasing method depends on the part.

11. Buying a Used Engine in Tennessee

A used engine is one of the most important parts to match correctly. Before purchasing, confirm:

1. Vehicle VIN
2. Year, make and model
3. Engine family
4. Engine code
5. Displacement
6. Fuel type
7. Drive configuration
8. Transmission configuration
9. Emissions configuration where relevant
10. Donor mileage
11. Included accessories
12. Available test documentation
13. Warranty terms
14. Return requirements
15. Shipping requirements

Do not assume that two engines from the same model year are interchangeable. Production changes can create different sensors, wiring, intake systems, exhaust equipment, mounting points and engine-control requirements.

12. Buying a Used Transmission in Tennessee

Transmission compatibility can depend on more than the vehicle model. Confirm:

• VIN
• Transmission code
• Model year
• Engine configuration
• Drivetrain
• Two-wheel drive or four-wheel drive
• Transfer-case compatibility when applicable
• Electronic controls
• Included components
• Donor mileage
• Condition information
• Warranty terms
• Return requirements

For a transmission, the exact code is often more useful than a general description such as "automatic transmission for 2015 truck."

13. Tennessee Emissions Testing and Used Engines

Tennessee no longer operates the vehicle emissions testing programs that previously applied in parts of the state. According to Tennessee state materials, emissions testing ended on January 14, 2022 in the counties that still had testing programs, and Davidson County ended its program in February 2022.

That means a Tennessee buyer generally does not need to select a replacement engine based on a current county emissions testing requirement.

However, emissions equipment still matters for the vehicle itself. Federal emissions requirements continue to apply to motor vehicles, and replacing an engine with a configuration that does not match the vehicle can create mechanical, diagnostic or compliance problems.

For engine replacement, compare the original engine configuration, emissions-related equipment, wiring, sensors and control systems before ordering. Do not remove or disable emissions-control equipment simply because Tennessee no longer performs the former registration emissions test.

14. Tennessee Salvage and Rebuilt Vehicle Rules

Tennessee has specific rules for salvage and rebuilt vehicles. The Tennessee Department of Revenue states that a vehicle declared a total loss can qualify for a Salvage Certificate or Non-repairable Certificate under the state's rules. A salvage vehicle cannot be registered for normal road use until it completes the applicable rebuilt-vehicle process.

Tennessee's rebuilt process can require:

• Salvage documentation
• Application for Motor Vehicle Identification Certification
• Receipts for parts used
• Photographs showing the vehicle before and after repairs
• Applicable fees
• State-level inspection or approval

A rebuilt title is different from an ordinary used vehicle title. If you are restoring a salvage vehicle, keep detailed records for every major part used during the rebuild.

The Tennessee Department of Revenue also requires licensed motor vehicle dismantlers, recyclers and scrap metal processors to electronically report vehicle information when purchasing vehicles for parts, dismantling or scrap under the state's NMVTIS reporting requirements.

Junkyard Parts for Rebuilt Vehicles

If you are rebuilding a salvage vehicle, document the source of parts carefully. Keep receipts, seller information, part descriptions, donor vehicle information when available, photographs, VIN-related records when provided, and installation records.

Tennessee's rebuilt-title process can require receipts for parts and photographs of the vehicle before and after repairs. This documentation is separate from ordinary maintenance or replacement-part purchases on a normally titled vehicle.

15. Compatibility and VIN Fitment

VIN-based matching provides strong fitment confidence but does not guarantee fit in every case. Prior modifications, trim differences, production changes, drivetrain configuration, and installer requirements can affect compatibility.

For engines and transmissions, compare:

• VIN
• Year
• Make
• Model
• Engine code
• Transmission code
• Drivetrain
• Production date when relevant
• Emissions configuration
• Included components
• Donor vehicle information

Do not rely only on a general year range or a similar-looking part. Request VIN-matched quotes from verified independent sellers and compare the seller's application details before ordering.

16. When an Online Used Part May Be More Practical

Self-service yards are useful for many smaller components. They become less convenient when the part is heavy, difficult to remove or expensive to transport.

An engine or transmission may require an engine hoist, transmission jack, breaker bar, long extensions, specialty sockets, drain pans, safety equipment, additional labor, and vehicle or trailer space for transportation.

If the component is being shipped to a repair shop, an online marketplace can eliminate much of the physical removal work.

17. Used Auto Parts Pro Marketplace

Used Auto Parts Pro connects buyers with verified independent sellers of used OEM auto parts.

Used Auto Parts Pro is a marketplace that connects buyers with verified independent sellers of used OEM auto parts. UAPP does not own, warehouse, test, warranty, sell, or ship parts directly. Sellers list their own parts, set their own prices, define warranty terms, and ship directly to buyers or repair shops.

Some listings may include aftermarket components. Buyers can review listing details and seller information so they can compare compatibility, condition, price and application based on their own repair needs.

18. Shipping and Warranty Considerations

Shipping costs are included in the seller's quote unless otherwise stated. Delivery timelines vary by seller location, part type, carrier availability, freight requirements, and destination.

Many sellers offer warranty coverage on select parts. Warranty terms, duration, exclusions, return procedures, and labor coverage vary by seller and part. Confirm all terms in writing before purchase.

Inspection and testing practices vary by seller and part category. Ask the seller for mileage, condition notes, photos, and available test documentation before ordering.

For an engine or transmission, confirm exactly what the seller is quoting. For example, an engine listing might refer to a long block, complete engine, engine assembly, or engine with accessories. A transmission listing may refer to a transmission assembly, transmission with torque converter, transfer case, or transmission with related components. These descriptions can represent different products and prices.

19. How to Choose a Tennessee Junkyard

Choose a self-service junkyard when:

• You need a smaller component.
• You have the required tools.
• You are comfortable removing the part.
• You want to inspect the donor vehicle yourself.
• A compatible donor vehicle is listed.
• Local pickup is convenient.

Consider an online used-part marketplace when:

• You need an engine.
• You need a transmission.
• The component is heavy.
• You need the part shipped to a repair shop.
• You want to compare quotes from multiple sellers.
• You want seller-specific mileage and condition information.
• You want to review warranty terms before ordering.

20. What to Bring to a Tennessee Self-Service Junkyard

Bring the equipment appropriate for the component you plan to remove. Useful items include:

• Metric socket set
• Standard socket set
• Ratchets
• Extensions
• Breaker bar
• Combination wrenches
• Screwdrivers
• Pliers
• Penetrating oil
• Pry tools
• Flashlight
• Gloves
• Eye protection
• Closed-toe work shoes
• Containers for bolts and hardware
• Vehicle identification information
• Part number or casting number when available

Do not assume every yard provides the same tools or lifting equipment. Check the individual location's rules before traveling.

21. Common Problems When Buying Used Auto Parts

• Wrong application: A part can look correct but have different mounting points, sensors, connectors or control requirements.
• Different production configuration: Manufacturers can change components during a model generation. A general year range is not always enough.
• Unknown donor mileage: Mileage can affect the expected remaining service life of a used engine, transmission or drivetrain component.
• Missing accessories: An engine may not include the alternator, starter, intake system, exhaust components, wiring or other accessories shown in a reference photograph.
• Incomplete condition information: Inspection and testing practices vary by seller and part category. Ask what documentation is available.
• Warranty misunderstanding: Warranty terms differ by seller and part. Confirm the duration, exclusions, return process and labor coverage before purchase.
• Core charge confusion: Some parts have core charges. Confirm whether a core deposit is included in the quoted price and how the return process works.

22. Why Tennessee Buyers Consider Used OEM Parts

Used OEM parts can provide several practical benefits:

• Original-manufacturer application
• Access to parts for older vehicles
• Potentially lower purchase cost than some new replacement options
• Access to donor vehicle information
• Availability of discontinued or hard-to-find components
• Large selection of engines, transmissions and other assemblies

OEM origin does not automatically mean perfect condition. Mileage, maintenance history, donor condition, testing information and seller terms still matter.

Some listings may include aftermarket components. Clear listing information gives buyers the ability to compare the available options.

23. Questions to Ask Before Ordering

Before purchasing an engine or transmission, ask the seller:

1. What is the donor vehicle VIN?
2. What is the donor mileage?
3. What is the exact engine or transmission code?
4. What components are included?
5. What inspection or testing was performed?
6. What warranty applies?
7. What are the return conditions?
8. Is labor covered?
9. What shipping method will be used?
10. Are shipping costs included in the quote?

24. Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the main junkyard markets in Tennessee?

The largest clearly documented self-service markets covered in this guide are Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville and Chattanooga. Tennessee also has independent salvage yards and used parts businesses across Middle and East Tennessee, West Tennessee and the Tri-Cities.

2. Are there junkyards in Nashville?

Yes. Current documented self-service locations include Pull-A-Part Nashville at 7114 Centennial Blvd. and Pick Your Part Nashville at 2030 Lucas Lane.

3. Are there junkyards in Memphis?

Yes. Current documented self-service locations include Pull-A-Part Memphis at 2955 Farrisview Blvd. and Pick Your Part Memphis at 966 West Mitchell Road.

4. How much does it cost to enter a Tennessee junkyard?

Published admission varies by operator. Pull-A-Part currently publishes $2 regular admission and $1 VIP admission at its Nashville, Memphis and Knoxville locations. Pick Your Part publishes $3 admission at its Nashville, Memphis and Chattanooga locations.

5. How old do you have to be to enter a Tennessee self-service junkyard?

The major documented locations in this guide publish a minimum entry age of 16. Verify the individual location's current policy before visiting.

6. Does Tennessee still require vehicle emissions testing?

No current statewide or local vehicle registration emissions testing program is identified in the Tennessee state materials reviewed for this guide. Former programs ended in 2022, including Davidson County's program.

7. Does the end of emissions testing mean any engine can be installed?

No. Engine compatibility still depends on the vehicle, engine family, wiring, sensors, control systems, drivetrain and other application details. Federal emissions requirements also remain relevant.

8. Can I find a used engine at a Tennessee junkyard?

Possibly. Engine availability changes as vehicles enter and leave a yard. Verify the donor vehicle, engine code, mileage, condition and compatibility before purchasing.

9. Are used junkyard engines OEM?

A used engine removed from an original-manufacturer vehicle is generally an OEM-origin component. However, buyers should confirm the exact engine configuration and seller information. Some marketplace listings may include aftermarket components.

10. Do Tennessee junkyards offer warranties?

Warranty policies vary by operator and part. Some sellers offer warranty coverage, while others have different return or as-is policies. Confirm the exact terms before purchase.

11. What should I check before buying a used transmission?

Check the VIN, transmission code, engine configuration, drivetrain, donor mileage, included components, condition information, warranty and return requirements.

12. Can I buy a used transmission online instead of visiting a junkyard?

Yes. An online marketplace can connect buyers with independent sellers offering used transmissions. Shipping costs are included in the seller's quote unless otherwise stated.

13. Is a junkyard engine cheaper than a new engine?

A used engine can have a lower purchase price than some new replacement options, but the total cost depends on mileage, condition, installation labor, shipping, included accessories, warranty terms and other requirements.

14. What is VIN matching?

VIN matching uses the vehicle identification number to improve confidence that a replacement part is intended for the buyer's vehicle. It is particularly useful for engines and transmissions.

15. Do I need my own tools at a self-service junkyard?

Generally, yes. Self-service yards expect customers to remove parts themselves. Some locations provide wheelbarrows or engine hoists for larger components, but tools and policies vary.

16. Can I rebuild a salvage vehicle in Tennessee?

Yes, a salvage vehicle can go through Tennessee's rebuilt-vehicle process when the applicable requirements are met. The state requires documentation and approval before the vehicle can receive the applicable rebuilt title branding.

17. What records should I keep when rebuilding a salvage vehicle?

Keep receipts for parts, photographs of the vehicle before and after repairs, seller information and other documentation required by the Tennessee Department of Revenue. Detailed records can help support the rebuilt-title process.

25. Conclusion

Junkyards in Tennessee give buyers several ways to source used auto parts. Nashville and Memphis have multiple large self-service operations, while Knoxville and Chattanooga provide additional documented chain locations. Independent salvage and used parts businesses extend coverage across the rest of the state.

For smaller components, a self-service yard can be practical when you have the right tools and can safely remove the part. For engines, transmissions and other major assemblies, an online marketplace can reduce physical removal work and make it easier to compare seller-specific information.

When purchasing a used mechanical component, focus on VIN fitment, engine or transmission codes, donor mileage, condition, included components, available testing information, warranty terms and total delivered cost.

Used Auto Parts Pro connects buyers with verified independent sellers of used OEM auto parts. The marketplace model gives buyers another way to compare seller-specific options without requiring UAPP to own, warehouse or directly sell the parts.