Advance Auto Parts is a retail chain that stocks OEM and aftermarket parts for most vehicles

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 walk into a store, order online for pickup or delivery, or use their website to check inventory before you go. The chain stocks common maintenance items like filters, belts, batteries, and brake pads, as well as harder-to-find components depending on your vehicle's year, make, and model.

The company also runs a rewards program called AAA (Advance Auto Advantage) that tracks your purchases and offers discounts on future orders. You do not have to join to shop there, but members typically see lower prices on sale items and occasional bonus point events. The program is free to join through their website or in-store.

Key Takeaways

  • Advance Auto Parts stocks both OEM parts (made by your vehicle's manufacturer) and aftermarket alternatives (made by third-party companies), so you can compare options and prices in one place.
  • You can check whether a specific part is in stock at your nearest location before you drive there, using their website or by calling the store directly.
  • The free AAA rewards program tracks your spending and gives you discounts on future purchases, which adds up if you do regular maintenance yourself.
  • Advance Auto Parts does not install parts, so you will need to bring the component to a mechanic or install it yourself if you have the tools and knowledge.
  • Return policy typically allows 30 to 60 days for most parts, but core charges (deposits on items like batteries and alternators) have different rules, so ask before you leave the store.

How to find the right part for your vehicle

Advance Auto Parts uses your vehicle's year, make, model, and engine size to narrow down which parts fit. You can enter this information on their website, and the system will show you compatible options. If you are not sure of your engine size, you can look it up in your owner's manual or find it on a sticker under your hood.

When you search for a part—say, an air filter—the site shows you OEM options (the brand your manufacturer uses) and several aftermarket brands at different price points. Each listing includes the part number, a description of what it fits, and customer reviews. You can also call a store and speak to someone who can help you identify the right part over the phone, though wait times vary by location.

Bring your vehicle's identification number (VIN) if you are unsure about compatibility. The VIN is on your registration, insurance card, or the dashboard on the driver's side. Staff can use it to confirm which parts will work on your specific vehicle.

OEM versus aftermarket parts at Advance Auto Parts

OEM parts are manufactured by the company that built your vehicle—Toyota makes Toyota parts, Ford makes Ford parts, and so on. They are engineered to the exact specifications your vehicle was designed with, and they carry the manufacturer's warranty. OEM parts typically cost more than aftermarket alternatives.

Aftermarket parts are made by independent companies and designed to fit your vehicle, but they are not made by the manufacturer. Quality varies widely among aftermarket brands. Some are nearly identical to OEM parts and cost significantly less; others are budget options that may not last as long. Advance Auto Parts carries multiple aftermarket brands at different quality levels, so you can read reviews and compare prices before you decide.

For routine maintenance like filters and wiper blades, many owners find aftermarket parts work well and save money. For structural or safety-critical components like brake calipers or suspension parts, some owners prefer OEM to reduce the risk of failure. Your owner's manual and mechanic can advise on which parts matter most for your vehicle's reliability.

Checking inventory and ordering online

The Advance Auto Parts website lets you search for a part, enter your zip code, and see which nearby stores have it in stock right now. You can also filter results to show only locations within a certain distance. This saves a trip if the part you need is not available locally.

You can order online for in-store pickup (usually ready within a few hours) or have it shipped to your home. Shipping costs and delivery times depend on your location and the item. Some parts may have access to for free shipping if you spend above a certain amount or if you are an AAA member. Check the product page for shipping details before you complete your order.

If you order a part and it arrives damaged or is the wrong item, you can return it to any Advance Auto Parts location. Keep your receipt or order confirmation number so staff can process the return quickly.

Core charges and what they mean

A core charge is a deposit you pay when you buy certain parts—typically batteries, alternators, starters, and transmissions. The charge is refunded when you return the old part to Advance Auto Parts. The core charge covers the cost of recycling or refurbishing the component and encourages you to return it rather than throw it away.

For example, if you buy a battery with a $20 core charge, you pay the battery price plus $20. When you bring the old battery back to the store, you get the $20 back. If you do not return the core, you lose the deposit. Core charges vary by part type and are shown on the product page before you check out.

Some parts do not have a core charge—filters, belts, hoses, and most bolt-on components are sold without one. Ask the cashier or check your receipt to confirm whether a core charge applies to what you bought.

Using the AAA rewards program

The Advance Auto Advantage (AAA) program is free to join and tracks every purchase you make at Advance Auto Parts. You earn points on most items, and those points convert to discounts on future purchases. The program also sends you personalized coupons based on what you buy and your vehicle type.

You sign up online or in-store with your email address and phone number. At checkout, you give your phone number or scan your membership card, and the transaction is added to your account. You can check your points balance and available coupons anytime through the website or mobile app.

Members also get early access to sales and occasional bonus point events where you earn extra points on certain categories. If you do your own maintenance regularly, the discounts add up over time and can offset the cost of parts, especially on higher-priced items like batteries or alternators.

What Advance Auto Parts does not do

Advance Auto Parts is a parts retailer, not a service center. They do not install parts, perform diagnostics, or do repairs. You will need to take the part to a mechanic, dealership, or independent shop if you cannot install it yourself. Some mechanics will install parts you bring to them, though they may charge a labor fee or require you to buy the part from them instead.

If you are not sure whether you can install a part yourself, ask the store staff or your mechanic before you buy. Some jobs—like replacing an air filter or wiper blades—are straightforward for a beginner. Others, like replacing a transmission or suspension component, require specialized tools and knowledge and should be left to a professional.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I return a part if I opened the box but did not use it?

Most parts can be returned within 30 to 60 days with a receipt, even if opened, as long as they are not damaged or contaminated. Core parts like batteries have different rules—you must return the old core to get your deposit back. Check your receipt or ask staff about the return window for the specific item you bought.

How do I know if a part is OEM or aftermarket?

The product page and packaging will say "OEM" or list the manufacturer's name. OEM parts usually have your vehicle's brand name on them (Toyota, Ford, Honda). Aftermarket parts list the third-party maker instead. If you are not sure, ask staff or call the store before you buy.

What if the part I need is not in stock?

You can order it online for delivery to your home or to a nearby store for pickup. Delivery times vary, but most parts arrive within a few days. You can also call other Advance Auto Parts locations to see if they have it in stock and ask if they can transfer it to your nearest store.

Do I need to be an AAA member to shop at Advance Auto Parts?

No. The program is optional and free to join. Non-members pay regular prices, while members get discounts on sale items and earn points toward future purchases. If you shop there regularly, joining usually saves money over time.

What tools do I need to install a part myself?

It depends on the part. straightforward items like air filters, wiper blades, and cabin air filters need only basic hand tools or none at all. More complex work like brake replacement or suspension repair requires specialized equipment and knowledge. Your owner's manual often includes installation steps for common maintenance items, or you can watch instructional videos online to see what is involved before you decide.