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

Advance Auto Parts operates over 4,000 locations across the United States and Canada, selling both original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts and aftermarket alternatives. You can buy parts 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 — some free, some for a fee that varies by location.

The chain stocks everything from engine components and brake pads to filters, belts, hoses, and electrical parts. If you're doing your own repairs or working with a mechanic, Advance Auto Parts is one of the largest networks where you can source what you need without ordering from a dealership or waiting for shipping.

Key Takeaways

  • Advance Auto Parts sells both OEM parts (made by your vehicle's manufacturer) and aftermarket parts (made by third-party companies), so you can compare price and brand before buying.
  • You can check part availability and pricing online or through their app before driving to a store, which saves time if you need something urgently.
  • Many Advance Auto Parts locations offer free services like battery testing and code reading, which can help you diagnose what needs repair before you buy parts.
  • The company's return policy typically allows 30 to 60 days for returns on most parts, depending on whether they've been installed or opened.
  • Advance Auto Parts runs frequent sales and loyalty programs that can reduce the cost of parts, especially if you shop there regularly.

OEM vs. Aftermarket parts at Advance Auto Parts

Advance Auto Parts stocks both types. OEM parts are manufactured by your vehicle's maker or an authorized supplier and match the exact specifications your car was built with. Aftermarket parts are made by independent manufacturers and often cost less, but quality and fit vary widely depending on the brand.

For critical safety components — brakes, suspension, steering — many owners prefer OEM or well-established aftermarket brands because the consequences of failure are serious. For wear items like air filters, cabin filters, and wiper blades, aftermarket options from reputable brands often perform just as well at lower cost. Advance Auto Parts staff can tell you which parts are in stock under each category, but the choice depends on your budget and how long you want the part to last.

How to find parts and check availability before you go

Use the Advance Auto Parts website or mobile app to search by your vehicle's year, make, and model. Enter the part name or category — for example, "brake pads" or "alternator" — and the system will show you what's in stock at stores near you, the price, and whether you can pick it up the same day or need to order it.

This step saves a wasted trip. If the part you need is out of stock locally, you can order it online for delivery or arrange to pick it up when it arrives. The app also lets you compare prices between locations and see which stores have the lowest cost for the same part.

Free and paid services at Advance Auto Parts locations

Many stores offer free battery testing, which tells you whether your battery is failing or whether a charging problem is the real issue. Free code reading uses a diagnostic scanner to pull the trouble codes from your engine computer — the codes that trigger your check engine light. These services help you understand what's wrong before you buy parts, which can prevent buying the wrong thing.

Some locations charge for services like wiper blade installation, battery installation, or starter replacement. Prices vary by store and by the complexity of the job. Call ahead or check the app to see what your nearest location offers and whether there's a fee. If you're buying the part from Advance Auto Parts, installation is sometimes free or discounted.

Return policy and warranty on parts

Advance Auto Parts typically allows returns within 30 to 60 days of purchase, depending on the part and whether it's been opened or installed. Unopened, unused parts in original packaging usually have the full 60-day window. Once a part is installed and removed, the return window may be shorter or the part may not be returnable at all.

Many parts also carry manufacturer warranties that cover defects — not wear or damage from improper installation. If a part fails prematurely under normal use, you may be able to return it or exchange it for a replacement. Keep your receipt and ask the store about warranty coverage when you buy, especially for expensive items like alternators, starters, or transmissions.

Loyalty programs and discounts

Advance Auto Parts runs a rewards program called Advance Rewards that gives you points on purchases, which you can redeem for discounts on future buys. You can sign up in-store or online. The program also sends members early notice of sales and exclusive discounts on certain brands or categories.

The company frequently runs promotions — buy-one-get-one offers on filters and batteries, percentage discounts on specific brands, or bulk discounts if you buy multiple items. Checking the website or app before you shop can show you what's on sale that week. If you do regular maintenance or repairs on your own vehicles, the rewards add up over time.

When to buy from Advance Auto Parts vs. other sources

Advance Auto Parts makes sense when you need a part quickly and want to see it in person before buying, when you want to compare OEM and aftermarket options side by side, or when you're doing the work yourself and need information from staff. The network is large enough that most common parts are in stock or available for same-day pickup.

You might choose a dealership instead if you need a rare or specialized part, if you want the certainty of OEM parts for a critical repair, or if you're having the dealership do the work anyway. You might order online from other retailers if you have time to wait for shipping and want to compare prices across multiple sites. Advance Auto Parts fits in the middle — faster than mail order, more convenient than hunting down a dealership, and usually cheaper than dealer parts for common items.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I return a part if I installed it and it didn't fix the problem?

It depends on the store's policy and the condition of the part. If the part is defective, you may be able to return or exchange it. If the part is in working order but wasn't the right fix for your problem, the return may not be accepted once it's been installed. Ask the store about their policy before you install, and keep your receipt.

Do I need to know my vehicle's VIN to find the right part?

No. You can search by year, make, and model, which is usually enough. For some parts, the system may ask follow-up questions about engine size or transmission type to narrow down the options. Your VIN can help if you're unsure about those details, but it's not required.

Are Advance Auto Parts more expensive than dealership parts?

Usually not. Aftermarket parts at Advance Auto Parts are typically cheaper than dealership OEM parts. Advance Auto Parts OEM parts may be comparable in price to dealership parts, but you can shop around using the app. Loyalty discounts and sales can lower the price further.

What does a diagnostic code reading tell me?

A code reading pulls the specific trouble codes stored in your engine computer when your check engine light comes on. The code tells you which system is having a problem — for example, oxygen sensor, catalytic converter, or fuel pressure — but not always the exact part that failed. A code reading helps you know what to investigate or what parts to buy, but it's not a complete diagnosis.

Can I order parts online and pick them up in-store?

Yes. If a part is in stock at a nearby location, you can order it online and pick it up the same day or within a few hours. If it's not in stock locally, you can order it for delivery to your home or arrange to pick it up when it arrives at the store. Check the app or website for estimated pickup times.