Advance Auto Parts sells both OEM and aftermarket parts, but most of their inventory is aftermarket

Advance Auto Parts is a national retailer with over 4,700 locations. They stock replacement parts for maintenance and repair — brake pads, filters, batteries, belts, hoses, spark plugs, and similar items. Most of what they carry is aftermarket, meaning made by companies other than the vehicle manufacturer. They do carry some OEM parts (the original manufacturer's parts), but you have to order those, and they take longer to arrive.

The difference matters for your wallet and your warranty. An aftermarket brake pad from Advance Auto Parts costs less than the same part from a dealership, but it's made by a third party, not your vehicle's maker. An OEM part costs more but is may provide to match your vehicle's original specifications exactly. Most people use Advance Auto Parts for routine maintenance and repairs where aftermarket parts work fine. You'd go to a dealership or order OEM parts directly when you need something specific to your vehicle's design or when your warranty requires it.

Key Takeaways

  • Advance Auto Parts primarily stocks aftermarket parts at lower prices than dealerships, with OEM parts available by special order.
  • You can look up parts by vehicle year, make, and model on their website or in-store to confirm fitment before buying.
  • Aftermarket parts work for most routine maintenance but may not be covered under your vehicle's manufacturer warranty.
  • Advance Auto Parts offers a return policy on most parts, typically 30 to 90 days depending on the item and whether it's been installed.

How to find the right part for your vehicle

Advance Auto Parts requires your vehicle's year, make, model, and engine size to show you compatible parts. You can enter this information on their website, in their mobile app, or by asking a staff member in the store. The system then displays parts that fit your specific vehicle. This step matters because a part that fits a 2019 Honda Civic may not fit a 2019 Honda Accord, even though they're the same year and brand.

If you don't know your engine size, it's on your vehicle registration or in your owner's manual. You can also look it up on the Advance Auto Parts website by entering your VIN (vehicle identification number), which is a 17-character code on your dashboard or registration. Once you've entered your vehicle information correctly, the system filters results to show only parts that will work for you.

Aftermarket versus OEM parts at Advance Auto Parts

Aftermarket parts at Advance Auto Parts come from manufacturers like Bosch, Dorman, Motorcraft, and others. These parts meet industry standards and work in most vehicles, but they're not made by your vehicle's manufacturer. They typically cost 30 to 50 percent less than OEM parts. For items like air filters, oil filters, wiper blades, and brake pads, aftermarket parts from established brands perform reliably for most drivers.

OEM parts are made by your vehicle's manufacturer or licensed by them. Advance Auto Parts can order these, but they don't stock them in most locations. OEM parts cost more but may provide exact fitment and may be required if your vehicle is still under warranty. Some repairs — particularly electrical or computer-related work — may require OEM parts to avoid warranty issues. Ask the service advisor or parts counter staff whether OEM is necessary for your specific repair before ordering.

Return policy and warranties on parts

Advance Auto Parts allows returns on most parts within 30 to 90 days, depending on the item type. Unopened, unused parts can typically be returned for a refund. Installed parts have stricter rules — some can be returned if they're defective, but you may need a receipt and proof of purchase. Batteries have a separate warranty: most carry a three-year free replacement warranty from the manufacturer, and Advance Auto Parts handles the exchange.

Aftermarket parts sold at Advance Auto Parts usually come with the manufacturer's warranty, not Advance Auto Parts' own warranty. A Bosch brake pad, for example, carries Bosch's warranty, not Advance Auto Parts'. Check the packaging or ask staff what warranty covers the specific part you're buying. If a part fails prematurely, you may need to contact the manufacturer directly or return it to Advance Auto Parts with proof of purchase to process a warranty claim.

Pricing and when to shop at Advance Auto Parts versus a dealership

Advance Auto Parts prices are typically lower than dealership prices for the same aftermarket part. A dealership may charge $80 for an air filter; Advance Auto Parts might charge $25 to $40 for an equivalent aftermarket filter. However, dealerships often include installation labor in their quoted price, while Advance Auto Parts sells parts only — you pay a mechanic separately to install them.

The real cost comparison depends on whether you're installing the part yourself or paying for labor. If you're doing your own maintenance, Advance Auto Parts saves you money. If you're paying a mechanic, get a quote from both the dealership (parts plus labor) and an independent shop (Advance Auto Parts parts plus their labor rate). For warranty-sensitive repairs or parts specific to your vehicle's computer system, a dealership may be worth the extra cost because they use OEM parts and their technicians know your vehicle's exact specifications.

In-store pickup and delivery options

Advance Auto Parts offers same-day in-store pickup at most locations for parts they have in stock. You order online, choose a nearby store, and pick up the part within hours. This works well for common items like filters, batteries, and wiper blades that most stores carry. For less common parts or OEM items, you may need to wait one to three business days or have the part shipped to your home.

Advance Auto Parts also ships parts to your home for a fee, typically $5 to $15 depending on the item and your location. Some orders may have access to for free shipping if you spend above a certain amount or have a membership. Check the website for current shipping costs and delivery times before you order. If you need a part urgently, in-store pickup is faster than waiting for delivery.

Advance Auto Parts membership and discounts

Advance Auto Parts offers a free membership program called AAP Rewards. Members earn points on purchases and receive email offers for discounts on specific items. The program doesn't cost anything to join, and you can sign up in-store or online. Points accumulate slowly — typically one point per dollar spent — and can be redeemed for discounts on future purchases.

Beyond the rewards program, Advance Auto Parts runs periodic sales and promotions, particularly around seasonal maintenance (spring oil changes, winter battery checks, summer cooling system work). Sign up for their email list to see these offers before you shop. Some independent mechanics and fleet customers negotiate bulk discounts, but standard retail customers pay the listed price plus any active promotions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will an aftermarket part from Advance Auto Parts void my vehicle's warranty?

Not automatically. Your vehicle's manufacturer warranty covers defects in the vehicle itself, not the parts you replace. However, if an aftermarket part causes damage to another part that's covered under warranty, the manufacturer may deny the warranty claim for that damage. For example, a low-quality oil filter might cause engine damage, and the manufacturer might refuse to cover the engine repair. To be safe, use quality aftermarket brands or OEM parts for warranty-sensitive repairs.

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

Yes, if the part is unused and you have your receipt, most Advance Auto Parts locations will accept a return within 30 to 90 days. If you installed the part and it doesn't fit, return policies are stricter — you may be able to return it only if it's defective, not if you ordered the wrong size. Always confirm the part number and fitment before you leave the store or receive your order.

Does Advance Auto Parts install parts?

No, Advance Auto Parts sells parts only. They do not perform installation. You'll need to take your vehicle to a mechanic, dealership, or independent shop to have the part installed. Some customers use shops like Firestone or Jiffy Lube, which will install parts you bring to them, though they may charge a small fee for using outside parts.

What's the difference between a part number at Advance Auto Parts and the same part at a dealership?

The part number identifies the specific component. If two parts have the same number, they're the same part — whether you buy it from Advance Auto Parts or a dealership. The difference is the brand and source. Advance Auto Parts sells aftermarket versions made by third-party manufacturers; dealerships sell OEM parts made by your vehicle's manufacturer. The OEM part will cost more but is may provide to match your vehicle's original design.

How do I know if I need an OEM part or if aftermarket is fine?

For routine maintenance items — filters, wiper blades, spark plugs, belts — aftermarket parts from established brands work well. For electrical components, computer-related parts, or anything tied to your vehicle's emissions or safety systems, ask your mechanic or dealership whether OEM is necessary. If your vehicle is still under warranty, check your warranty paperwork or call the dealership to confirm whether using aftermarket parts could affect coverage.