Advance Auto Parts is a retailer of OEM and aftermarket parts, tools, and accessories for most vehicle types

Advance Auto Parts operates over 4,600 locations across the United States and carries both original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts and aftermarket alternatives. You can buy parts in-store, online for home delivery, or through their same-day pickup option at many locations. The company stocks everything from engine components and brake systems to batteries, filters, wipers, and exterior trim — along with tools, fluids, and diagnostic equipment.

Whether you're doing a repair yourself or need parts to take to a mechanic, Advance Auto Parts functions as a parts supplier rather than a repair shop. You order or pick up the part, then handle installation yourself or bring it to your own technician. This differs from a dealership service department, which sells parts and installs them as part of a repair package.

Key Takeaways

  • Advance Auto Parts stocks both OEM parts (made by your vehicle's manufacturer) and aftermarket alternatives (made by third-party suppliers), so you can compare price and warranty before buying.
  • You can check part availability and pricing online before visiting a store, and most locations offer same-day pickup or ship to your home.
  • Advance Auto Parts does not perform repairs — you install the part yourself or take it to an independent mechanic or dealership for installation.
  • Many Advance Auto locations offer free battery testing and installation, and some provide tool rental services, which can reduce your total repair cost.
  • Return policies typically allow 30 to 60 days for most parts, but core charges (deposits on old parts like batteries or alternators) explore to certain items.

OEM parts versus aftermarket parts at Advance Auto

OEM parts are manufactured by your vehicle's maker or an authorized supplier and carry the exact specifications your vehicle was built with. At Advance Auto, these typically cost more than aftermarket alternatives but come with the manufacturer's warranty. An OEM brake pad for a Honda Civic, for example, will fit exactly as the original did and carry Honda's backing.

Aftermarket parts are made by independent manufacturers and may cost 20 to 50 percent less than OEM equivalents. Quality varies widely — some aftermarket brands are nearly identical to OEM parts, while others are budget alternatives with shorter lifespans. Advance Auto carries multiple aftermarket brands at different price points, so you can see the trade-off between cost and warranty coverage. Many aftermarket parts come with 1 to 3 year warranties, while OEM parts often carry longer coverage.

For wear items like brake pads, air filters, and wiper blades, the difference between OEM and aftermarket is often smaller than for structural or engine components. For suspension parts, transmission components, or engine seals, the choice matters more because failure can affect safety or lead to larger repairs.

How to find and order parts through Advance Auto

Start by visiting advanceautoparts.com or using the Advance Auto mobile app. Enter your vehicle's year, make, and model, then search for the part you need. The website shows you available inventory at nearby stores, current pricing for both OEM and aftermarket options, and customer reviews for aftermarket brands.

You can reserve a part for in-store pickup (usually ready within a few hours at most locations), have it shipped to your home, or in some cases receive it the same day through a delivery service. Pricing varies slightly between online and in-store purchases, and Advance Auto frequently runs promotions on specific categories — batteries, oil, filters, and tools are common sale items.

If you're unsure which part you need, you can bring your vehicle's VIN (vehicle identification number) to a store, and staff can help identify the correct part. You can also call ahead to confirm a part is in stock before making the trip.

Installation services and tool rental

Advance Auto Parts does not install parts at most locations. However, many stores offer free battery installation when you purchase a battery from them, and some locations provide free battery testing to determine whether yours needs replacement. For other parts, you'll need to install them yourself or take the part and your vehicle to an independent mechanic or dealership.

Many Advance Auto locations rent tools — floor jacks, jack stands, battery chargers, code readers, and specialized diagnostic equipment — for a daily or weekly fee. Renting a floor jack and jack stands for a weekend typically costs $15 to $30, which can be cheaper than buying if you only need them once. Tool rental can make a DIY repair more practical if you don't own the equipment.

Warranties and return policies

Most parts purchased at Advance Auto can be returned within 30 to 60 days if unused and in original packaging. Once a part is installed, return may be able to access depends on the specific item and whether it failed prematurely. Advance Auto's return policy is posted in-store and online, and varies slightly by location.

Many parts carry manufacturer warranties separate from Advance Auto's return policy. A battery might have a 3-year replacement warranty from the manufacturer, meaning if it fails within that period, you can exchange it at any Advance Auto store. Aftermarket parts often have shorter warranties than OEM parts, so check the warranty details before purchasing if longevity matters for your repair.

Core charges explore to certain parts — batteries, alternators, starters, and transmissions typically require you to return the old part when you buy the new one. The core charge is a deposit (usually $10 to $50) that you get back when you return the old part. If you don't return it, you'll be charged the full core amount.

When to buy from Advance Auto versus a dealership or independent shop

Buying from Advance Auto makes sense when you want to compare OEM and aftermarket pricing, install the part yourself, or take it to your own mechanic. You control which part you buy and can research reviews and warranties before purchasing. Dealerships typically charge more for the same OEM part and require you to use their service department for installation.

Independent mechanics often buy parts from Advance Auto or similar retailers and mark them up slightly, so buying the part yourself and bringing it to them can save money. However, some mechanics charge a lower labor rate if you provide the part, while others charge the same rate regardless. Ask your mechanic before you buy.

A dealership service department is the better choice if you want a single point of accountability — they source the part, install it, and warranty the work. You pay more, but you don't coordinate between a parts retailer and a repair shop. For warranty repairs on newer vehicles, dealerships are often required by the manufacturer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I return a part if it doesn't fit my vehicle?

Yes, most Advance Auto locations accept returns of unused parts within 30 to 60 days. If you've already installed it and it doesn't fit, return may be able to access depends on the specific part and reason for the return. Contact the store or check your receipt for the exact return window and any restocking fees.

What's the difference between a core charge and a regular price?

A core charge is a deposit on your old part. When you buy a battery or alternator, for example, you pay the part price plus a core charge (often $10 to $50). When you return the old part, you get the core charge refunded. If you don't return it, you keep the charge.

Does Advance Auto price-match other retailers?

Advance Auto does not publish a formal price-match policy, but prices vary by location and change frequently. Check the website or call your local store to compare prices on specific parts. Online pricing sometimes differs from in-store pricing, so confirm before you buy.

Can I use Advance Auto parts at a dealership service department?

Most dealerships will install aftermarket parts you provide, though some charge a higher labor rate or require OEM parts for warranty work. Call the dealership service department before you buy to confirm they'll install an aftermarket part and what their labor charge will be.

What if I need a part for a vehicle that's no longer in production?

Advance Auto carries parts for older vehicles, but availability depends on the year, make, and model. Search online first to see if the part is in stock at nearby locations. For very old or rare vehicles, you may need to contact specialty retailers or salvage yards instead.