Where to find Advance Auto Parts in Athens
Advance Auto Parts operates multiple locations across Athens, Georgia. The main store serving the Athens area is located at 1755 West Broad Street, near the intersection with North Avenue. This location carries the full range of Advance Auto Parts inventory — engine parts, batteries, filters, fluids, tools, and accessories for both domestic and imported vehicles.
A second location serves the eastern side of Athens at 2625 South Lumpkin Street, close to the Clarke County line. Both stores operate with extended hours, typically opening at 7:30 a.m. on weekdays and closing between 8 and 9 p.m., though hours vary by day and season. Sunday hours are usually 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Store hours and current inventory can change, so calling ahead before making a trip is the most reliable way to confirm a location is open and has what you need in stock. The main West Broad Street store can be reached through Advance Auto Parts' customer service line or by searching the store locator on their website.
Key Takeaways
- Advance Auto Parts has at least two locations in Athens — one on West Broad Street and one on South Lumpkin Street — both carrying full automotive parts inventory.
- Most Athens locations open at 7:30 a.m. on weekdays and close between 8 and 9 p.m., with shorter Sunday hours around 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Calling the store directly or using the Advance Auto Parts website locator tool is the fastest way to confirm hours, location address, and whether a specific part is in stock.
- Both locations offer services like battery testing, wiper blade installation, and basic diagnostic help at no charge to customers.
What services are available at Athens locations
Advance Auto Parts stores in Athens offer several services beyond selling parts. Battery testing is free — staff can check whether your current battery is holding a charge or needs replacement. This service takes about 10 minutes and requires only that you bring your car keys or have the battery accessible.
Wiper blade installation is also free when you purchase blades from the store. Staff will fit the new blades to your vehicle in the parking lot, usually while you wait. Some locations also offer free installation of air filters, though this varies by store and by the type of filter.
The stores do not perform major repairs or full vehicle service, but staff can help you identify which part you need if you describe a problem or bring in a part number. Many customers use the store as a resource for troubleshooting before attempting repairs themselves.
How to check inventory before visiting
Advance Auto Parts allows you to search inventory online through their website or mobile app. You enter your vehicle's year, make, and model, then search for the specific part you need. The system shows whether that part is in stock at your nearest location and at other stores within a set distance.
Online inventory information is usually current within a few hours, but it is not always perfectly accurate, especially for less common parts. If you are looking for something specific and the website shows it in stock, calling the store directly before driving over removes the risk of a wasted trip.
The Advance Auto Parts app also allows you to place a hold on parts, though holds are typically good for 24 hours. This is useful if you find a part at a location farther away and want to may support it stays available until you can pick it up.
Pricing and loyalty programs
Advance Auto Parts prices vary by part type and brand. Common items like oil, filters, and batteries are often competitively priced against other retailers, but specialty parts and tools can carry higher markups. Prices are the same across all Athens locations.
The store offers a loyalty program called Advance Auto Parts Rewards, which is free to join. Members earn points on purchases that can be redeemed for discounts on future transactions. The program also provides early notice of sales and special offers via email or text message.
Advance Auto Parts frequently runs promotions on batteries, oil changes, and seasonal items. Checking their website or asking staff about current deals can save money on routine maintenance parts, especially if you are stocking up for multiple vehicles.
Comparing Advance Auto Parts to other Athens retailers
Athens has several options for automotive parts beyond Advance Auto Parts. AutoZone operates locations on both the east and west sides of the city and carries a similar range of parts and tools. O'Reilly Auto Parts has a presence in the area as well, typically with comparable pricing and inventory depth.
NAPA Auto Parts locations in Athens tend to stock more commercial and professional-grade parts and may have higher prices for consumer items, though their staff often has deeper technical knowledge. Walmart and Target carry basic items like oil, filters, and batteries at lower prices but with much smaller selection.
The choice between retailers often comes down to location convenience and whether you need a specific brand or part type. Advance Auto Parts' strength is breadth of inventory and consistent availability across locations, while smaller retailers may offer faster service or more personalized help.
Returning parts and warranty coverage
Advance Auto Parts accepts returns of most parts within 30 days of purchase with a receipt. Parts must be unused and in original packaging. Some items like batteries and core items (parts that require you to return an old part) have different return windows — batteries are typically returnable within 60 days, and core returns must happen within 30 days to avoid a core charge.
Many parts sold at Advance Auto Parts come with manufacturer warranties that cover defects. Batteries typically carry warranties ranging from one to three years depending on the brand and type. If a part fails within the warranty period, you can return it to the store for replacement or refund.
Keeping your receipt is important for returns and warranty claims. If you lose the receipt, the store may still process a return if the part is still in original condition and you can provide a credit card or ID that matches the original transaction.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to bring my car to Advance Auto Parts to get the right part?
No. You can provide your vehicle's year, make, model, and engine size, and staff can help you identify the correct part. If you have the part number from your owner's manual or a mechanic, that is even faster. Bringing the old part itself is the most reliable way to may support you get an exact match.
Can I order a part online and pick it up at the Athens store?
Yes. Advance Auto Parts offers online ordering with in-store pickup at most locations. You order through their website or app, select your preferred store, and pick up the part within a few hours or the next business day, depending on stock and time of order.
What payment methods does Advance Auto Parts accept?
Advance Auto Parts accepts cash, all major credit and debit cards, and their own Advance Auto Parts credit card. Some locations may accept mobile payment options like Apple Pay or Google Pay, though this varies by store.
Are there any tools I can rent or borrow at the Athens locations?
Advance Auto Parts does not rent tools, but they sell a wide range of affordable tools and diagnostic equipment. Some locations have tool lending programs through their rewards membership, though availability varies. Call the store directly to ask about tool lending options.
What should I do if the part I need is not in stock?
Staff can order the part from another location or from the warehouse for delivery to the store, usually within one to three business days. You can also check the online inventory tool to see which nearby stores have the part in stock and pick it up there instead.