AutoZone's EV Charging Equipment and Where to Find It

AutoZone sells Level 1 and Level 2 EV chargers in-store and online, but does not operate a charging network itself. You buy the equipment from AutoZone, install it at home or a business location, and own it outright. The chargers AutoZone stocks vary by location — some stores carry more inventory than others, and availability changes seasonally.

You can browse what's in stock at your local store through AutoZone's website, call ahead to confirm availability, or order online for in-store pickup or home delivery. Prices range depending on the charger type and brand, and AutoZone occasionally runs sales on charging equipment.

AutoZone also carries charging cables, adapters, and replacement parts for existing chargers. If you already own a charger and need a replacement cord or connector, AutoZone may have it in stock or can order it.

Key Takeaways

  • AutoZone sells Level 1 and Level 2 chargers as products you purchase and own, not as part of a charging network or subscription service.
  • Level 1 chargers plug into a standard household outlet and charge slowly; Level 2 chargers require 240-volt installation and charge faster but need an electrician.
  • You are responsible for installation, electrical work, and any permits required by your city or county — AutoZone does not handle these.
  • Availability varies by store location, so checking your local AutoZone's inventory online or by phone before visiting saves time.
  • AutoZone's return policy and warranty terms depend on the specific charger brand and model you purchase.

Level 1 Versus Level 2 Chargers at AutoZone

Level 1 chargers are the simplest option. They plug into any standard 120-volt household outlet — the same outlet you use for lamps or phone chargers. No electrician is needed. A Level 1 charger adds roughly 2 to 5 miles of range per hour of charging, depending on your vehicle. This works for people who drive short distances daily or have time to charge overnight.

Level 2 chargers require a 240-volt circuit, the same voltage as a clothes dryer or electric range. Installation means running new wiring from your electrical panel to the charger location, which requires a licensed electrician and a permit from your city or county. A Level 2 charger adds roughly 25 to 30 miles of range per hour, making it practical for daily use and longer trips. Most EV owners choose Level 2 for home charging.

AutoZone carries both types. Level 1 chargers are cheaper upfront and need no installation. Level 2 chargers cost more but cut charging time significantly — the trade-off is the cost of electrical work, which varies by your location and how far the charger is from your panel.

Installation and Electrical Work You'll Need to Arrange

AutoZone sells the charger equipment but does not install it. For a Level 1 charger, you plug it in yourself. For a Level 2 charger, you must hire a licensed electrician to run the 240-volt circuit, install the outlet or hardwired connection, and pull any permits your jurisdiction requires.

Before buying a Level 2 charger, contact a local electrician for a quote on the installation work. Costs vary widely — from a few hundred dollars if your electrical panel is close to where you want the charger, to over a thousand dollars if new wiring has to run a long distance or through walls. Some electricians can also handle the permit paperwork.

Check whether your city or county requires a permit for EV charger installation. Many do, and skipping the permit can create problems when you sell your home or if an inspector finds unpermitted work. Your electrician or your local building department can tell you what's required.

Charger Brands and Compatibility

AutoZone stocks chargers from multiple manufacturers. The specific brands and models in stock change, so the charger you see at one store may not be at another. Before you buy, confirm that the charger works with your vehicle's charging port.

Most newer EVs use either the SAE J1772 connector (standard for Level 1 and Level 2 in North America) or a proprietary connector specific to the vehicle brand. Tesla vehicles, for example, use Tesla's connector on Level 2 chargers, though Tesla chargers can also work with other vehicles through an adapter. Check your vehicle's manual or the manufacturer's website to see which connector type your car needs.

AutoZone staff can help you find a charger compatible with your vehicle, but verify the connector type yourself before checkout. A charger that doesn't match your vehicle's port is useless.

Warranty, Returns, and Support

AutoZone's return policy and warranty coverage depend on the specific charger brand and model. Most chargers come with a manufacturer's warranty covering defects — typically one to three years — but AutoZone's return window is usually 30 to 90 days for unopened or defective items. Read the return policy on your receipt or AutoZone's website before you buy.

If a charger fails after the return window closes, contact the manufacturer directly. AutoZone can tell you how to reach the manufacturer's customer service, but they do not repair chargers or extend warranties beyond what the maker provides.

Keep your receipt and any documentation that came with the charger. If you need to return it or file a warranty claim, you'll need proof of purchase and the original packaging if possible.

Cost Comparison: Buying Versus Renting or Using Public Networks

Buying a charger from AutoZone means you own the equipment and can use it as many times as you want with no per-use fee. The upfront cost is the charger itself plus installation (for Level 2). Over time, owning a home charger is usually cheaper than relying on public charging networks, especially if you charge daily.

Some utility companies or local governments offer rebates or tax deductions for home charger purchases and installation. Check with your utility and your state's energy office to see what programs exist in your area. These rebates can offset part of the cost.

If you rent your home or apartment, installing a Level 2 charger may not be an option without your landlord's permission. A Level 1 charger requires no installation and works anywhere you have an outlet, making it the only practical choice for renters.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I return a charger to AutoZone if I change my mind?

AutoZone's return window is typically 30 to 90 days depending on the item and whether it's been opened. Check your receipt or AutoZone's website for the exact policy on the charger you bought. If the charger is defective, you may be able to return it outside the standard window — ask at the store.

Do I need a permit to install a Level 2 charger?

Most cities and counties require a permit for 240-volt electrical work, including EV charger installation. Contact your local building or planning department to confirm what's required in your area. Your electrician can usually handle the permit process as part of the job.

Will AutoZone install the charger for me?

No. AutoZone sells the charger equipment only. You must hire a licensed electrician for Level 2 installation. For Level 1, you plug it in yourself.

What if my vehicle has a different connector type than the charger I bought?

Some chargers come with adapters, or adapters are sold separately. Check your vehicle's manual to see which connector it uses, then confirm the charger or an available adapter matches before you buy. If you already bought the wrong charger, contact the manufacturer about adapter options or return it to AutoZone within the return window.

Does AutoZone offer chargers that work with all EV brands?

Level 1 chargers use the standard SAE J1772 connector and work with most EVs. Level 2 chargers vary — some use SAE J1772, while others are brand-specific (like Tesla). Confirm your vehicle's connector type before buying, and ask AutoZone staff which chargers in stock match your car.