Building on a Legacy, Riverbend Recycled Auto Parts
Riverbend Recycled Auto Parts at Jeff Smid Auto has long been a trusted resource for the Quad Cities and greater area communities, known not just for quality auto parts but also for its leadership in local sustainability. The company continues a decades-long tradition of responsible vehicle recycling that keeps valuable materials in circulation and out of landfills.
Continuing a Commitment to Sustainability
When longtime recycler Jeff Smid founded his business nearly 20 years ago, he brought a deep knowledge of both auto recycling and vehicle restoration. Jeff earned a reputation for finding exactly what his customers needed, even if that meant sourcing parts from other recyclers. His dedication to both people and the environment established the strong foundation that Riverbend Recycled builds on today.
After Jeff’s retirement in 2022, the newly formed Riverbend Recycled Auto Parts carried forward his commitment to the community and to environmentally responsible recycling. Under new ownership, the company continues to serve the broader region and with fresh energy and modern technology while remaining true to the principles that made it a local staple.
Parts for the People
Riverbend Recycled takes pride in delivering industry-leading service to its customers. Its modern, easy-to-use parts inventory system helps both DIY mechanics and repair professionals find the right part quickly and confidently.
Customers enjoy peace of mind with Riverbend’s standard 90-day warranty, as well as optional extended, labor, and lifetime warranties on most parts. With one-business-day shipping on orders and a team known for friendly, knowledgeable service, Riverbend Recycled continues to earn the trust of customers who value both quality and care.
Recycling Cars for the Environment
Reuse, Refurbish, and Recycle
Sustainability is at the heart of Riverbend Recycled’s operations. Each vehicle that enters the facility is carefully dismantled by skilled technicians to ensure every component has the best chance for reuse.
- Reusable parts are inspected, cleaned, and inventoried for resale.
- Thousands of components, including alternators and catalytic converters, are sent to coring operations where they are rebuilt and returned to use.
- The remaining vehicle shells are crushed and shredded, keeping recyclable materials such as steel, aluminum, and certain plastics in circulation.
Every part or piece of material that is reclaimed, rebuilt, or recycled represents waste diverted from landfills and resources kept within the domestic manufacturing supply chain. This process strengthens the circular economy and supports American workers who contribute to sustainable production.
Certified Environmental Leadership
Riverbend Recycled holds Certified Automotive Recycler (CAR) status through the Automotive Recyclers Association (ARA), which represents the highest environmental and safety certification in the U.S. auto recycling industry.
Maintaining CAR certification requires passing annual inspection of more than 100 rigorous environmental and safety checks, such as hazardous material storage, stormwater runoff management, OSHA compliance, and worker safety. This recognition reflects Riverbend’s ongoing commitment to responsible operations and to meeting the highest industry standards.
Partnering with SHiFT for a Greener Tomorrow
Riverbend Recycled’s environmental mission aligns naturally with the SHiFT Vehicle Retirement Initiative. Through this partnership, Riverbend provides customers with an easy and environmentally responsible way to retire their old or inoperable vehicles. Customers can submit their vehicle directly on the Riverbend Recycled website, connecting users to SHiFT’s streamlined process for end-of-life vehicle recycling.
Together, Riverbend and SHiFT help community members make responsible choices that benefit both their budgets and the planet. By working together, they ensure that even the final stage of a vehicle’s life contributes to a cleaner and more sustainable future.
About the Author
Chapin Griffith
With deep background in fleet management strategies, Chapin joined the Advanced Remarketing Services team in 2024 to bring his unique perspective to SHiFT® and how end-of-life vehicles should be properly tracked and recycled.