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 the part you need, pay for it, and take it home — there is no process process, no may be able to access check, and no waiting period. If you are fixing a car yourself or need supplies for a mechanic, you can shop there the same way you would at any other store.
The company operates hundreds of locations across the United States. You can find your nearest store using their website or by calling their customer service line. Many locations offer same-day pickup if you order online, which means you can reserve a part in the morning and pick it up the same afternoon without paying shipping.
Advance Auto Parts also runs a rewards program called AAP Rewards that gives you points on purchases, which you can redeem for discounts on future orders. Signing up is free and happens at checkout, either in-store or online. The program is optional — you can shop without it, but members typically save money over time if they buy regularly.
Key Takeaways
- Advance Auto Parts sells car parts, tools, and accessories at retail prices with no special requirements to purchase.
- You can shop in person at a physical location or order online with options for home delivery or store pickup.
- The AAP Rewards program is free to join and lets you earn points toward future discounts on your purchases.
- Many stores offer services like battery testing, wiper blade installation, and tool rental at additional cost.
- Return policies typically allow returns within 30 days with a receipt, though some items like batteries or core parts have different rules.
Finding a store location and checking hours
The easiest way to find an Advance Auto Parts near you is to visit their website and use the store locator tool. You enter your zip code or city name, and the tool shows you all nearby locations with their addresses, phone numbers, and hours of operation. Many stores are open seven days a week, but hours vary by location — some open at 7 or 8 a.m. and close at 9 or 10 p.m., while others have shorter hours.
If you prefer to call ahead before visiting, you can reach the store directly using the phone number from the locator, or call their general customer service line. Store staff can tell you whether they have a specific part in stock, which saves you a trip if you are looking for something uncommon. They can also answer questions about pricing, installation services, or whether a part will work with your vehicle.
How to order online and choose delivery or pickup
Shopping online at Advance Auto Parts works like most retail websites. You search for a part by name, part number, or vehicle year and model. The site shows you the price, availability at nearby stores, and estimated delivery time if you choose shipping. You add items to your cart, enter your payment information, and complete the order.
When you check out, you have three main options: home delivery, store pickup, or curbside pickup. Home delivery typically takes three to seven business days depending on your location and current order volume. Store pickup is usually faster — often the same day or next business day — and you pay no shipping fee. Curbside pickup means you order online, drive to the store, and staff bring your order to your car without you going inside.
You will receive an email confirmation with your order number and tracking information. If you chose pickup, the email will tell you when your order is ready and which location to visit. If you chose delivery, you can track your package online using the tracking number provided.
Understanding pricing, sales, and the rewards program
Prices at Advance Auto Parts vary based on the brand and type of part. A basic air filter might cost $10 to $20, while a starter motor could cost $150 to $400 depending on your vehicle. Prices are the same online and in-store, though online sometimes shows sales or promotions that in-store displays may not advertise clearly.
The store runs regular sales and promotions, especially around seasonal needs like winter battery sales or summer cooling system maintenance. You can see current deals on their website or sign up for their email list to receive notifications about upcoming sales. AAP Rewards members often get exclusive discounts or bonus points during promotional periods.
Joining AAP Rewards is free and takes less than a minute at checkout. You provide your email address and zip code, and you when ready start earning points on that purchase. One point is typically earned per dollar spent, though promotional events sometimes offer double or triple points. Once you accumulate enough points, you can redeem them for a discount code that works on future purchases in-store or online.
Services available beyond just buying parts
Many Advance Auto Parts locations offer services beyond selling parts. Battery testing is free — staff can check whether your current battery is holding a charge or needs replacement. If you buy a battery from them, many stores will install it for free or for a small fee. Wiper blade installation is also commonly free when you purchase blades from the store.
Some locations rent tools, which is useful if you need a specialized tool for a one-time job rather than buying it. Tool rental prices vary by location and tool type, but renting is usually much cheaper than purchasing. You can call ahead to ask whether your local store rents tools and what the daily or weekly rates are.
Not every location offers every service, so call your nearest store to ask what is available. Larger stores in urban areas tend to offer more services than smaller locations in rural areas.
Return and exchange policies
Advance Auto Parts generally allows returns within 30 days of purchase if you have your receipt. You can return items in-store or by mail if you ordered online. Refunds are issued to your original payment method, and exchanges for a different size or type of part happen when ready in-store.
Some items have different rules. Batteries, for example, often have a core charge — a deposit you pay when you buy the battery, which you get back when you return the old battery. If you return a battery without the old one, you lose the core charge. Opened or installed parts may not be returnable, so ask before you leave the store if you are unsure whether something can be returned later.
If you ordered online and received the wrong item or a damaged part, contact customer service with your order number and a photo of the problem. They can arrange a replacement shipment or refund without requiring you to return the item first in many cases.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a membership to shop at Advance Auto Parts?
No. You can walk into any store and buy parts without a membership or rewards account. AAP Rewards is optional and free to join, but it is not required to make a purchase.
Can I return a part if I installed it and it did not fit my car?
Return policies for installed parts vary by location and part type. Some stores will accept returns of installed parts within 30 days, while others will not. Call your local store or ask at the counter before installation to understand their specific policy.
How long does it take to get a part if I order online?
Store pickup is usually available the same day or next business day. Home delivery typically takes three to seven business days depending on your location. You will see the estimated time before you complete your order.
Does Advance Auto Parts install parts for you?
Advance Auto Parts sells parts but does not perform full vehicle repairs. Some stores offer free installation for batteries and wiper blades when you buy from them. For other parts, you will need to take your vehicle to a mechanic or do the work yourself.
What if I do not know what part I need for my car?
Store staff can help you identify the right part if you tell them your vehicle's year, make, and model. You can also call ahead with this information, or use the online part finder tool on their website to narrow down options before you visit.