What Advance Auto Parts is and how to shop there

Advance Auto Parts is a retail chain that sells automotive parts, tools, and accessories. You can walk into a physical store, order online for delivery or in-store pickup, or call ahead to check if a part is in stock. The company operates thousands of locations across the United States, and most stores will special-order parts that are not on the shelf.

The stores are organized by vehicle system — engine parts, brakes, batteries, filters, lighting, interior accessories, and tools. If you know what you need, you can find it by aisle. If you do not know the exact part, staff can help you identify it if you bring your vehicle's year, make, and model, or your vehicle identification number (VIN).

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. Membership is free and you can sign up in-store or online.

Key Takeaways

  • Advance Auto Parts sells new automotive parts, tools, and accessories both in physical stores and online, and staff can help you find the right part if you know your vehicle's year, make, and model.
  • You can pick up online orders at the store within a few hours in most locations, or have them shipped to your home for a fee that depends on the item and your location.
  • The store will special-order parts not currently in stock, though wait times vary depending on the part and supplier availability.
  • AAP Rewards membership is free and accumulates points on every purchase that you can redeem for discounts.
  • Return and exchange policies vary by item type — most parts can be returned within 30 days with a receipt, but some items like batteries have different rules.

Finding the right part for your vehicle

The fastest way to find a part is to know your vehicle's year, make, and model before you go to the store or search online. You can find this information on your vehicle registration, insurance card, or by looking at the driver's side door jamb where the VIN is printed. If you have the VIN, Advance Auto Parts can look up your exact vehicle in their system.

If you already know the part name — such as "air filter" or "alternator" — you can search for it directly on the website or ask a store employee. They will ask you what system is failing or what you are trying to fix, then narrow down the options. Bring your vehicle keys if you want staff to help you identify a part by looking at it in person.

The website has a "Find Parts" tool where you enter your vehicle information and browse by category. This shows you what is in stock at your nearest store and the price. Online prices are sometimes different from in-store prices, so check both before you decide where to buy.

Ordering online and picking up in store

When you order online at advanceautoparts.com, you can choose to pick up at a store near you or have the part shipped to your home. In-store pickup is usually faster and free. Most orders are ready within a few hours, though this depends on whether the item is already in that location's inventory.

To place a pickup order, enter your zip code to select a store, add items to your cart, and choose "Pick Up in Store" at checkout. You will receive an email or text when your order is ready. Go to the store, give them your order number or phone number, and they will bring your items to the counter. You pay at that time if you have not already paid online.

If the store does not have the item in stock, you can still order it for pickup, but the wait time will be longer — sometimes several days. The website will tell you the estimated pickup date before you complete your order. You can also call the store directly to ask if they have something in stock before you order.

Shipping to your home and delivery costs

Advance Auto Parts ships to most addresses in the continental United States. Shipping costs depend on the item, your location, and how fast you want it. Standard shipping typically takes five to seven business days and costs between $5 and $15 for most items, though larger or heavier parts may cost more.

The website shows you the shipping cost before you check out, so you will know the total price including delivery. Some items may have access to for free shipping if you spend above a certain amount or if you are an AAP Rewards member at certain membership levels. Check the website for current free shipping offers.

If you order online and the item arrives damaged, you can return it for a refund or replacement. Contact Advance Auto Parts customer service with your order number and photos of the damage. Most returns are processed within one to two weeks.

Special orders and parts that are not in stock

If Advance Auto Parts does not have a part in stock at your local store or online, you can request a special order. The store will contact its suppliers and order the part for you. The wait time depends on the part and how quickly the supplier can ship it — this can range from a few days to several weeks.

You will usually have to pay for the special order upfront or put down a deposit. The store will call you when the part arrives. If you change your mind after ordering, you may be charged a restocking fee depending on the store's policy and whether the part has already been ordered from the supplier.

For very hard-to-find parts, you might also ask the store staff if they can recommend a specialty supplier or online retailer that carries it. Some parts are only sold through certain channels, and the staff may know where to direct you.

Returns, exchanges, and warranty information

Most parts purchased at Advance Auto Parts can be returned or exchanged within 30 days if you have your receipt and the item is unused and in original packaging. Bring the part back to the store where you bought it, or contact customer service if you ordered online.

Some items have different return windows. Batteries, for example, typically have a shorter return period — usually 30 days — and may require a core charge (a deposit you get back when you return the old battery). Electrical items and tools may also have specific return rules, so check your receipt or ask at the register.

Many parts come with a manufacturer's warranty that covers defects. If a part fails within the warranty period, you can return it to Advance Auto Parts with proof of purchase, and they will replace it or refund your money. The length of the warranty varies by part type and manufacturer — check the packaging or ask staff for details.

Using AAP Rewards and getting discounts

AAP Rewards is a free membership program that gives you points on every purchase. You earn one point for every dollar you spend, and you can redeem points for discounts on future purchases. Points typically convert to discounts at a rate of 100 points for $5 off, though this varies by promotion.

Sign up for AAP Rewards in-store at the register or online at advanceautoparts.com. You will need an email address and phone number. Once you are enrolled, give your phone number or email at checkout every time you shop, and your points will be added to your account automatically.

Advance Auto Parts also runs periodic sales and promotions for AAP Rewards members, such as double points days or exclusive discounts on certain categories. Check the website or sign up for email notifications to learn about current offers. Some promotions are only available to members.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if a part will fit my car?

Enter your vehicle's year, make, and model into the website's search tool, or tell a store employee. The system will show you only parts that fit your specific vehicle. If you are unsure, bring your VIN or vehicle registration to the store and staff can verify compatibility before you buy.

Can I return a part if I installed it and it did not work?

Return policies typically require parts to be unused and in original packaging. If you installed a part and it did not solve your problem, contact Advance Auto Parts customer service with your receipt and explain the issue. They may make an exception or help you identify the correct part, but a full refund is not may provide for installed items.

What if the online price is different from the in-store price?

Online and in-store prices can differ. If you see a lower price online, you can show it to a store employee and ask if they will match it. Policies on price matching vary by location, so ask at the register. You can also order online for in-store pickup to lock in the online price.

How long does a special order usually take?

Special order wait times vary widely depending on the part and supplier. Some parts arrive within a few days, while others may take two to four weeks. The store will give you an estimated date when you place the order and will call you when it arrives. Ask the staff for a specific timeframe before you commit to ordering.

Do I need a membership to shop at Advance Auto Parts?

No, you can shop without joining AAP Rewards. However, membership is free and gives you points on every purchase, so there is no reason not to sign up. You can enroll at the register or online in less than a minute.