What Advance Auto Parts is and how to use it

Advance Auto Parts is a retail chain that sells automotive parts, tools, and accessories at physical store locations and online. You walk in or order online, find the part you need for your vehicle, and pay at checkout. The company does not perform repairs — it sells the components you or a mechanic install. Stores are located across the United States, and you can check availability and pricing on their website before you go.

The basic process is straightforward: identify what part your vehicle needs, search Advance Auto Parts' inventory by part name or vehicle year/make/model, check the price and stock status at your nearest location, and either pick it up in-store or have it shipped. Many locations offer same-day pickup if you order online before a certain time. You do not need a membership to shop, though the company offers a loyalty program called AAP+ that provides discounts and rewards on purchases.

Key Takeaways

  • Advance Auto Parts sells parts and tools but does not install them — you handle installation yourself or take the part to a mechanic.
  • You can check inventory and pricing online before visiting a store, and many locations offer same-day pickup on online orders.
  • Prices vary by location and item, so comparing against other retailers or your mechanic's quoted price is worth doing before you buy.
  • The AAP+ loyalty program offers discounts on purchases and rewards points, but you can shop without it at regular prices.
  • Return policies typically allow 30 to 90 days depending on the item type, so keep your receipt and packaging if you need to return something.

Finding the right part for your vehicle

The first step is knowing exactly what part you need. If a mechanic has already told you the part name and part number, you can search directly on the Advance Auto Parts website or call your local store. If you know the problem but not the part name — for example, your battery is dead or your windshield wipers are worn — you can describe the issue and the store staff can help you identify it.

The website lets you search by vehicle year, make, and model, which narrows the results to parts that fit your specific car. This is important because the same part name can have different fitments across model years or trim levels. Once you find the part, the site shows you the price, stock status at nearby stores, and estimated delivery time if you order online. Some parts are in stock at most locations; others may need to be ordered and shipped to you.

Comparing Advance Auto Parts prices to other options

Advance Auto Parts' prices are not always the lowest available. Other retailers like AutoZone, O'Reilly Auto, NAPA, and Walmart also sell automotive parts, and prices can differ significantly for the same item. Before you buy, it is worth checking at least one other source — especially for expensive parts like batteries, alternators, or brake components where the difference might be $20 to $50 or more.

If you are taking the part to a mechanic for installation, ask the mechanic for a price quote on the part itself. Some mechanics have supplier relationships that give them access to parts at lower cost than retail, and they may be willing to install a part you bring in for a labor charge only. Other shops charge a markup on customer-supplied parts or refuse to install them, so clarify this before you buy elsewhere.

In-store pickup versus shipping and delivery

Advance Auto Parts offers three main ways to get your part: pick it up at a store, have it shipped to your home, or use a third-party delivery service like Instacart or DoorDash in some areas. In-store pickup is usually the fastest option if the part is in stock — you order online and pick it up the same day or the next morning. This saves shipping costs and gets you the part quickly if you need it urgently.

Shipping to your home takes longer — typically 3 to 7 business days depending on your location and the part's availability — but is useful if you do not have a store nearby or prefer not to leave home. Delivery services are available in select areas and may charge a separate delivery fee on top of the part price. Check the website or call ahead to see which options are available for your location and the specific part you need.

Understanding return policies and warranties

Advance Auto Parts allows returns within 30 to 90 days depending on the item type. Most parts have a 30-day return window; some items like batteries or core components have different terms. You need your receipt and the original packaging, and the part should be unused and in resalable condition. If you opened the part but did not install it, you may still be able to return it, but opened items are sometimes subject to a restocking fee.

Some parts come with manufacturer warranties that cover defects for a set period — batteries often have 1 to 3 year warranties, for example. The warranty is separate from the return policy and typically requires you to contact the manufacturer or return the part to Advance Auto Parts with proof of purchase. Keep your receipt in case you need to file a warranty claim later.

Using the AAP+ loyalty program

The AAP+ membership is a free loyalty program that gives you discounts on purchases and lets you earn rewards points. Members typically receive a percentage discount on most items — the exact discount varies and is shown on the website when you are logged in. You earn points on purchases that can be redeemed for discounts on future orders.

Signing up is free and takes a few minutes on the website or in-store. You do not have to join to shop at Advance Auto Parts, but the discounts can add up if you buy parts regularly. Compare the member price to the regular price before you assume it is worth joining — for a single purchase, the difference may be small, but over time the savings can be meaningful.

What to do if you need help choosing a part

If you are unsure which part you need or whether a part will fit your vehicle, Advance Auto Parts staff at physical locations can help. Call your local store or visit in person and describe the problem or bring your vehicle's year, make, and model. Staff can cross-reference this information against the inventory system to confirm fitment and availability.

The website also has a chat feature during business hours where you can ask questions about parts and fitment. Response times vary, but this is useful if you want to avoid a phone call or visit. If you are working with a mechanic, ask them to confirm the exact part number and fitment before you buy — this prevents you from purchasing the wrong item and having to return it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I return a part if I opened the packaging but did not install it?

Most unopened parts can be returned within 30 days with a receipt. If you opened the packaging but did not use the part, you may still be able to return it, though some stores charge a restocking fee. Call your local store or check your receipt for the specific return terms for that item.

Does Advance Auto Parts install parts for you?

No, Advance Auto Parts sells parts only — it does not perform installations. You install the part yourself or take it to a mechanic. Some independent repair shops will install parts you buy elsewhere, but they may charge a labor fee or refuse customer-supplied parts, so ask first.

What if the part I need is not in stock at my local store?

You can order it online for delivery to your home, or the store can order it and hold it for pickup. Delivery typically takes 3 to 7 business days. Check the website to see estimated availability before you call or visit the store.

Is the AAP+ membership worth it if I only buy parts occasionally?

It is free to join, so there is no downside to signing up. The discount is usually 10 to 20 percent on most items, so even occasional purchases add up. Compare the member price to the regular price on the website to see if the savings matter for the parts you are buying.

How do I know if a part will fit my vehicle?

Search by your vehicle's year, make, and model on the website, and the results will show only compatible parts. If you are unsure, call the store or use the website chat to confirm fitment before you buy. Bring your vehicle's VIN if you visit in person — staff can use it to look up exact specifications.