Advance Auto Parts is a retail chain that sells replacement parts, tools, and accessories for cars, trucks, and light vehicles

Advance Auto Parts (often called Advance Auto or AAP) operates over 4,600 stores across the United States and carries both OEM parts—original equipment manufacturer parts made by the vehicle's maker—and aftermarket parts made by independent suppliers. You can buy in-store, online, or through their mobile app. The company also offers services like battery testing, wiper blade installation, and code reading at many locations, though the availability of these services varies by store.

The chain serves both do-it-yourself owners and professional mechanics. If you're replacing a part yourself, Advance Auto can supply the component and often the tools you need. If you're taking your car to a shop, many independent repair facilities and some dealerships source parts through Advance Auto's wholesale accounts.

Key Takeaways

  • Advance Auto Parts stocks both OEM parts from vehicle manufacturers and aftermarket alternatives, so you can compare cost and warranty coverage before buying.
  • Many Advance Auto locations offer free services like battery testing, code reading, and wiper installation, which can help you diagnose problems before spending on parts.
  • Prices and part availability vary between stores and online, so checking your local store's inventory before driving there saves time and frustration.
  • Advance Auto's return policy allows returns within 30 days with a receipt, but some core parts (batteries, alternators, starters) have core charges that require you to return the old part to get a refund.

OEM versus aftermarket parts at Advance Auto

When you search for a part at Advance Auto, you will typically see multiple options. OEM parts are made by your vehicle's manufacturer—Toyota makes Toyota parts, Ford makes Ford parts—and carry the manufacturer's warranty. Aftermarket parts are made by independent companies like Bosch, Dorman, or Motorcraft and are usually less expensive than OEM equivalents, though warranty length and coverage vary by brand and part type.

For critical safety components like brake pads, rotors, or suspension parts, many owners prefer OEM parts because the manufacturer has engineered them specifically for that vehicle. For wear items like air filters, cabin air filters, or wiper blades, aftermarket parts often perform identically at lower cost. Advance Auto staff can tell you which parts are in stock at your location, but they cannot advise you on which brand is best for your specific situation—that decision rests with you based on your budget, warranty needs, and how long you plan to keep the vehicle.

How to find the right part for your vehicle

Advance Auto's website and in-store system require your vehicle's year, make, model, and engine size to show you compatible parts. You can enter this information yourself, or staff can look it up using your vehicle identification number (VIN), which is printed on your registration and visible on the driver's side of the windshield. Providing accurate information is essential—a part that fits a 2020 Honda Civic with a 1.5-liter engine may not fit a 2020 Civic with a 2.0-liter engine, even though they are the same year and model.

If you are unsure what part you need, Advance Auto offers free code reading at many locations. If your check engine light is on, a staff member can plug a diagnostic scanner into your vehicle's onboard computer port (located under the dashboard, usually on the driver's side) and read the fault code. The code tells you which system is triggering the light—for example, code P0300 means a random misfire—but it does not always pinpoint the exact failed part. A code reading is a starting point, not a diagnosis. If you are uncertain what the code means or which part to replace, consulting a mechanic before buying parts can save you money on parts you do not need.

Core charges and return policies

Some parts carry a core charge, a deposit you pay upfront that you get back when you return the old part. Batteries, alternators, starters, and some other remanufactured or core-exchange parts typically have core charges ranging from $10 to $50 or more, depending on the part. The core charge appears as a separate line item on your receipt. When you return the old part within 30 days, Advance Auto refunds the core charge to your original payment method.

Advance Auto's standard return window is 30 days with a receipt. If you return a part within that window and it is unused and in original packaging, you will receive a full refund minus the core charge (if applicable). If you have already installed the part and it did not work, you can still return it, but Advance Auto may refuse the return if the part shows signs of use or damage. Keep your receipt and packaging until you are certain the part solved your problem.

Free in-store services and their limits

Many Advance Auto locations offer battery testing, alternator testing, starter testing, and code reading at no charge. These services use basic diagnostic equipment to tell you whether a component is functioning or failing. A battery test, for example, measures voltage and cold cranking amps to determine whether the battery can still start your vehicle reliably. An alternator test checks whether the alternator is charging the battery while the engine runs.

These tests are useful for narrowing down which part may have failed, but they are not a substitute for a full diagnostic by a mechanic. A code reader will tell you that your oxygen sensor is sending a bad signal, but it will not tell you whether the sensor itself is faulty or whether a vacuum leak is causing the sensor to read incorrectly. If a free test suggests a part has failed, you can decide whether to buy the part from Advance Auto and install it yourself, or take the vehicle to a shop for a more thorough diagnosis before spending money.

Ordering online and checking local inventory

Advance Auto's website shows which parts are in stock at your nearest store and allows you to order online for in-store pickup or home delivery. Pickup is usually available within a few hours at busy locations, though delivery times vary by area. If a part is not in stock locally, you can order it online and have it shipped to your home or to the store for pickup.

Prices sometimes differ between online and in-store purchases, and stock levels change throughout the day. Checking your local store's inventory before driving there prevents a wasted trip. If you are in a hurry and the part is not in stock nearby, calling the store directly is faster than checking the website, because staff can tell you when ready whether the part is available and when it will arrive if it is on order.

Working with Advance Auto as a do-it-yourselfer

If you plan to install a part yourself, Advance Auto sells many of the tools you will need—socket sets, wrenches, screwdrivers, jack stands, and specialty tools for specific repairs. Staff can point you toward the right tool, but they cannot provide installation instructions or advise you on whether a repair is safe to do yourself. Some repairs, like brake work or suspension work, require knowledge of safety procedures and proper torque specifications. If you are unsure whether you can safely complete a repair, consulting a mechanic or a trusted repair manual before starting is worth the cost.

Advance Auto also rents some specialty tools—engine hoists, transmission jacks, and ball joint separators—at many locations. Rental rates and availability vary by store. Renting a tool for a one-time repair is often cheaper than buying it, especially if you will not use it again.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I return a part if I installed it and it did not fix my problem?

You can attempt a return within 30 days, but Advance Auto may refuse if the part shows signs of installation or use. If the part is defective, the manufacturer's warranty may cover a replacement. Contact the part maker directly or ask Advance Auto staff whether the part is covered under warranty before assuming you can return it.

What is the difference between a code reading at Advance Auto and a diagnostic at a repair shop?

A code reading tells you which system is malfunctioning but not always which part caused it. A shop diagnostic includes the code reading plus testing of individual components, inspection of related systems, and a mechanic's judgment about what actually needs repair. A code reading is free and useful for narrowing down the problem; a shop diagnostic costs money but is more thorough.

Do I need my VIN to buy a part?

No, but providing your vehicle's year, make, model, and engine size is necessary so Advance Auto can show you compatible parts. Your VIN contains this information and makes the lookup faster, but you can also tell staff the details yourself if you do not have your VIN handy.

What happens if I lose my receipt and need to return a part?

Advance Auto can look up your purchase using your payment method or phone number if you provided it at checkout. Bring your ID and the part in original condition. Without a receipt or a way to verify the purchase, the store may refuse the return.

Are Advance Auto parts cheaper than buying from a dealership?

Aftermarket parts at Advance Auto are usually less expensive than OEM parts from a dealership. OEM parts at Advance Auto may be comparable to dealership prices or slightly lower, depending on the part and current promotions. Comparing prices between Advance Auto and your dealership before buying is worth a few minutes of your time.