Advance Auto Parts is a national retailer of car parts, tools, and accessories for DIY repairs and professional mechanics

Advance Auto Parts operates over 4,600 locations across the United States and sells replacement parts for most vehicle makes and models. The company stocks OEM (original equipment manufacturer) parts, aftermarket alternatives, tools, batteries, fluids, and accessories. You can shop in-store, order online for pickup, or have parts shipped to your home. Most locations also offer services like battery testing, wiper blade installation, and code reading for check-engine lights.

The retailer serves both do-it-yourself vehicle owners and professional mechanics. Prices and inventory vary by location and current stock levels. Advance Auto Parts is not a manufacturer — it buys parts from suppliers and resells them, so the same part may be available under different brand names at different price points.

Key Takeaways

  • Advance Auto Parts carries both OEM parts (made by your vehicle's manufacturer) and aftermarket parts (made by third-party suppliers), often at different prices for the same function.
  • You can check part availability and pricing on their website before visiting a store, and most locations offer same-day pickup for in-stock items.
  • The store offers free services including battery testing, code reading, and wiper blade installation at most locations.
  • Return policies typically allow 30 to 60 days for returns with a receipt, but core charges on batteries and other core items require the old part back.
  • Advance Auto Parts membership programs offer discounts on future purchases, though membership is not required to shop.

How to find parts on the Advance Auto Parts website

Visit advanceautoparts.com and enter your vehicle's year, make, and model in the search bar at the top of the page. The site will show you parts organized by category — engine, transmission, cooling, brakes, suspension, and others. You can filter results by brand, price range, and whether the part is in stock at your nearest location.

Each part listing shows the price, whether it is OEM or aftermarket, customer reviews, and a description of what the part does. The site tells you which nearby stores have the part in stock and whether you can pick it up the same day. If you know the part number or name, you can search for it directly instead of browsing by vehicle.

Advance Auto Parts also sells tools, fluids, batteries, and accessories. These items do not require you to enter your vehicle information — you can search for them by type or brand name. The website includes installation guides and how-to videos for common repairs.

Understanding OEM versus aftermarket parts at Advance Auto Parts

OEM parts are made by your vehicle's manufacturer or an authorized supplier and carry the manufacturer's specifications and warranty. Aftermarket parts are made by third-party companies and may cost less but vary in quality and warranty coverage. Advance Auto Parts stocks both types for most common repairs.

OEM parts typically cost more but are may provide to fit and function exactly as the manufacturer intended. Aftermarket parts may be cheaper and sometimes perform equally well, but quality depends on the brand and the specific part. Some aftermarket brands are well-regarded; others are budget options. Read customer reviews on the product page to see what other vehicle owners report about durability and fit.

The choice between OEM and aftermarket depends on your budget, how long you plan to keep the vehicle, and the part itself. For safety-critical parts like brakes or suspension, many owners prefer OEM. For cosmetic or wear items like air filters or wiper blades, aftermarket often works fine. Advance Auto Parts staff in-store can discuss the differences for the specific part you need.

Pickup, shipping, and delivery options

Advance Auto Parts offers three main ways to get parts: in-store pickup, home delivery, and shipping to a store location. If a part is in stock at your nearest store, you can usually pick it up the same day or within a few hours. The website will show you the pickup time window when you place the order.

For home delivery, Advance Auto Parts ships to most addresses in the continental United States. Shipping times and costs depend on your location and the item. Some orders may have access to for free shipping based on order total or membership status. You can track your shipment online once it ships.

If you prefer not to have a package delivered to your home, you can order online and have it shipped to your nearest Advance Auto Parts store for pickup. This option is often free and takes one to three business days depending on the location and part availability.

Return and exchange policies

Advance Auto Parts allows returns within 30 to 60 days of purchase with a receipt, depending on the item type. Parts that have been installed or used cannot be returned. For items with a core charge — such as batteries, alternators, or starters — you must return the old part to receive the core credit back.

If you return a part without the core, you will be charged the core deposit amount. Exchanges for the same part or a different part of equal value are usually processed when ready in-store. If you purchased online, you can return the item to any store location or request a prepaid return shipping label.

Damaged or defective parts can be returned or exchanged regardless of the time frame, though you may need to provide proof of the defect. Keep your receipt and packaging in case you need to return something.

Free services offered at most Advance Auto Parts locations

Many Advance Auto Parts stores offer free battery testing to check whether your current battery is holding a charge or needs replacement. Bring your battery or have staff test it in your vehicle. This service helps you decide whether to replace it now or wait.

Code reading is also free at most locations. If your check-engine light is on, staff can plug in a scanner to read the diagnostic code and tell you what system the code relates to. This does not diagnose the exact problem but narrows down where to look. You can then decide whether to repair it yourself or take the vehicle to a mechanic.

Wiper blade installation is free when you purchase wiper blades at Advance Auto Parts. Staff will install them on your vehicle while you wait. Some locations also offer free battery installation when you purchase a battery from them.

Advance Auto Parts membership and discount programs

Advance Auto Parts offers a membership program called Advance Plus that provides discounts on most purchases, early access to sales, and bonus points on spending. Membership costs money annually, but the discount percentage may offset the cost if you shop frequently. You can view the current membership price and benefits on their website.

The company also runs periodic sales and promotions for non-members. You can sign up for email notifications to learn about upcoming sales. Some items are always discounted for members; others go on sale for everyone during promotional periods.

If you are a professional mechanic or shop, Advance Auto Parts offers a commercial account with volume discounts and net payment terms. Contact your local store or visit their website to ask about commercial pricing.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Enter your vehicle's year, make, and model on the Advance Auto Parts website before adding a part to your cart. The site filters results to show only parts compatible with your vehicle. If you are unsure, ask staff in-store or call your local store with your vehicle information and the part name.

Can I return a part I installed myself?

No. Advance Auto Parts does not accept returns on parts that have been installed or used. If the part is defective, you may be able to exchange it for a replacement, but you will need to provide proof of the defect. Keep your receipt and packaging.

What is a core charge and why do I have to pay it?

A core charge is a deposit you pay when you buy certain parts like batteries, alternators, or starters. You get the deposit back when you return the old part to the store. The charge encourages recycling and remanufacturing of these components. If you do not return the old part, you keep the charge.

Does Advance Auto Parts install parts for you?

Advance Auto Parts does not perform full vehicle repairs or part installation at most locations. They offer free installation only for wiper blades and batteries. For other parts, you will need to install them yourself or take your vehicle to a mechanic or dealership.

Can I order parts online and pick them up at a different store location?

Yes. When you order online, you can select any Advance Auto Parts location for pickup. The website shows you which stores have the part in stock and estimated pickup times. Pickup is usually free and takes one to three business days depending on availability.