What Advance Auto Parts is and how to use it
Advance Auto Parts is a retail chain that sells automotive parts, tools, and accessories at physical store locations and online. You walk in or order online, find what you need for your vehicle, pay for it, and take it home — or have it shipped. The company does not install parts, finance purchases, or provide repair services. You buy the part yourself and either install it or take it to a mechanic.
The chain operates over 4,000 stores across the United States, plus an online store at advanceautoparts.com. Most locations are open seven days a week, though hours vary by store. You can search for parts by vehicle year, make, and model on their website, check local inventory in real time, and either pick up the same day or have it delivered.
Advance Auto Parts also runs a rewards program called AAA (Advance Auto Parts Rewards) that gives you points on purchases, which you can redeem for discounts. Membership is free and you sign up in-store or online with an email address.
Key Takeaways
- Advance Auto Parts sells parts and tools but does not install them or provide repair services — you handle installation yourself or hire a mechanic separately.
- You can shop in-store at over 4,000 locations or online at advanceautoparts.com, and check local inventory before you go.
- The free AAA rewards program gives you points on every purchase that you can redeem for future discounts.
- Return policies allow most items to be returned within 30 days with a receipt, though some items like batteries and core items have different rules.
- If you are unsure which part you need, bring your vehicle information or ask a store employee — they can help match parts to your car.
How to find the right part for your vehicle
The hardest part of shopping at Advance Auto Parts is knowing which part you actually need. The easiest way is to bring your vehicle's year, make, model, and engine size with you — or use that information on the website to narrow results.
On advanceautoparts.com, click "Find Parts" and enter your vehicle details. The site will show you parts that fit your specific car. In-store, you can tell an employee what you are looking for — "I need a new alternator for a 2015 Honda Civic" — and they can look it up in their system or point you to the right aisle.
If you already know the part number (from a mechanic's quote or a repair manual), you can search by that number directly on the website or ask an employee to find it. If you are not sure whether you need a part at all — for example, you hear a noise but do not know what is causing it — a store employee can sometimes help, but they cannot diagnose your vehicle. For that, you need a mechanic.
Understanding pricing and discounts
Prices at Advance Auto Parts vary by location, item, and current promotions. The same part may cost different amounts at different stores or online. You can compare prices by checking the website for your local store or calling ahead.
The AAA rewards program is the main way to save. When you sign up for free, you earn points on every dollar you spend — typically one point per dollar, though some items earn bonus points during promotions. You can redeem points for discounts on future purchases. The program also sends you personalized coupons and early notice of sales.
Advance Auto Parts also runs periodic sales and promotions, which you can see on their website or in-store. Some items, like batteries, may have a core charge — an extra fee you pay upfront that you get back when you return the old battery. This encourages recycling and is standard across the industry.
How returns and exchanges work
Most items at Advance Auto Parts can be returned within 30 days of purchase if you have your receipt. You can return them to any store location, not just the one where you bought them. If the item is defective or the wrong part, the store will refund your money or exchange it for the correct item.
Some items have different return rules. Batteries, for example, can be returned within one year if defective, but the core charge is not refundable if you straightforward change your mind. Opened or installed items may not be returnable depending on the item type — ask before you buy if you are unsure.
If you ordered online and want to return something, you can return it to any physical store location or arrange a return shipment through your account on advanceautoparts.com. Check the return status of your order online to see which option applies to your purchase.
Picking up online orders in-store
When you order online, you can choose to pick up at your nearest store location, usually within a few hours or by the next business day. You will receive an email when your order is ready. Go to the store, give them your name or order number, and they will bring your items to the counter.
In-store pickup is free and faster than shipping. If you need a part urgently, check the website to see if your local store has it in stock before you order — this way you know you can pick it up the same day or next morning.
If you order for delivery to your home, shipping costs vary based on your location and the item. Standard shipping usually takes five to seven business days. You can track your order online using the order number from your confirmation email.
What the AAA rewards program includes
The AAA rewards program is free to join and requires only an email address. You earn one point per dollar spent on most items, and points do not expire as long as your account is active. You can redeem points for discounts — for example, 100 points might equal a $5 discount on your next purchase, though the exact conversion varies.
Members also receive personalized coupons sent to their email, early access to sales, and bonus point promotions during certain times of year. You can check your points balance online or in-store by providing your email or phone number at checkout.
There is no annual fee, no minimum purchase requirement, and no penalty for not using the program. You can sign up in-store at the register or online at advanceautoparts.com before you check out.
When to shop in-store versus online
Shop in-store if you need a part today, want to see the item in person before buying, or prefer to ask an employee questions face-to-face. Most stores are open early and late, making it straightforward to stop by on your way to work or after hours. In-store pickup of online orders is also faster than shipping.
Shop online if you want to compare prices across locations, read customer reviews, check inventory before you go, or have the item shipped to your home. The website also lets you save items to a list and come back to them later, which is useful if you are planning a project.
Many people do both: they search online to confirm the part number and check local inventory, then go to the store to buy it the same day. This approach saves time and reduces the chance of buying the wrong item.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Advance Auto Parts install the part I buy?
No. Advance Auto Parts sells parts only — they do not install them. You can install the part yourself if you have the tools and knowledge, or take the part to a mechanic or repair shop to have them install it. Some mechanics will install parts you bring to them, though some charge a labor fee or require you to buy the part from them.
What is a core charge and do I have to pay it?
A core charge is an extra fee for items like batteries, alternators, and starters that contain recyclable materials. You pay the core charge when you buy the new part, and you get the money back when you return the old part to the store. If you do not return the old part, you keep the charge. It is not optional — it is built into the price of these items.
How do I know if a part will fit my car?
Use your vehicle's year, make, model, and engine size on the Advance Auto Parts website or tell an employee in-store. The system will show only parts that fit your specific vehicle. If you are unsure of your engine size, check your vehicle's manual or ask a mechanic. Buying the wrong part is expensive, so take time to confirm before you pay.
Can I return a part if I bought the wrong one?
Yes, within 30 days with your receipt. Return it to any Advance Auto Parts store location. If the part is unopened and unused, you will get a full refund. If it is opened or installed, the store may refuse the return or charge a restocking fee depending on the item type.
Do I need to be a member to shop at Advance Auto Parts?
No. You can buy items without joining the AAA rewards program. However, joining is free and gives you points on every purchase plus access to member-only coupons and sales, so there is no reason not to sign up at checkout.