Advance Auto Parts is a retail chain where you buy car parts and maintenance supplies

Advance Auto Parts is a chain of stores across the United States that sells parts, tools, and supplies for vehicle repair and maintenance. You can walk into a physical location, order online for pickup or delivery, or order by phone. The stores carry everything from oil and filters to batteries, brake pads, spark plugs, and specialty tools. Unlike a dealership, Advance Auto Parts sells parts for many vehicle makes and models, not just one brand.

The company operates over 4,000 locations nationwide. Most stores are open seven days a week, though hours vary by location. You can find your nearest store and its hours on their website or by calling ahead. Many locations offer same-day pickup if you order online before a certain time, usually in the afternoon.

Key Takeaways

  • Advance Auto Parts sells replacement parts and maintenance supplies for most vehicle makes and models, not just one brand.
  • You can shop in person, order online for pickup, or have parts shipped to your home, depending on what you need and how quickly you need it.
  • Staff at the counter can help you identify the right part if you know your vehicle's year, make, and model, or can look it up from your VIN.
  • The store offers a return policy that typically allows returns within 30 days with a receipt, though some items like batteries have different rules.
  • Prices vary by location and by part, and the store runs sales and promotions that change weekly.

How to find the right part for your vehicle

When you walk into an Advance Auto Parts store or browse online, you will need to tell the staff or enter your vehicle information to find the correct part. Have your vehicle's year, make, and model ready. If you do not know these details, you can provide your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), which is a 17-character code found on your dashboard or in your vehicle's paperwork. The staff or the website's search tool will use this information to show you parts that fit your specific vehicle.

If you are ordering online, the website has a "Find Parts" section where you enter your vehicle details. Once you do, the site filters results to show only compatible parts. In a physical store, you can ask a staff member at the parts counter for help. They can look up your vehicle and recommend the correct part, size, and type. This is especially useful if you are unsure whether you need a standard or heavy-duty version of a part.

Shopping in person versus ordering online

Shopping in person lets you see the part before you buy it and take it home when ready. You can also ask staff questions about installation or whether a part is right for your repair. This works well if you need a part urgently or prefer to inspect items before purchasing.

Ordering online offers convenience and sometimes lower prices. You can order from home and pick up the same day at a nearby store, or have the part shipped to your address. Online orders sometimes may have access to for discounts that in-store purchases do not. Shipping times depend on your location and the part's availability; some items ship within one to two business days, while others may take longer. Check the estimated delivery date before you complete your order.

Understanding pricing and discounts

Prices at Advance Auto Parts vary by location and by part type. The same part may cost different amounts at different stores. Prices also change based on weekly sales and promotions, which are advertised in-store and on the website. The store offers a loyalty program called Advance Rewards that gives you points on purchases, which you can redeem for discounts on future orders.

If you are a professional mechanic or run a repair shop, Advance Auto Parts offers a commercial account with volume discounts and net payment terms. You can set up a commercial account in person or online. Prices for commercial customers are often lower than retail prices, but you may need to meet minimum purchase requirements or provide business documentation.

Return and exchange policies

Advance Auto Parts allows returns and exchanges within 30 days of purchase if you have your receipt. Items must be unused and in original packaging. Some parts, such as batteries, have different return windows — batteries can typically be returned within one year if defective, but the return period for a regular return may be shorter. Always check the specific return policy for the type of part you are buying.

If you buy a part and it does not fit your vehicle or you ordered the wrong size, you can exchange it for the correct one at any Advance Auto Parts location. If the part is defective or fails prematurely, the store may replace it or refund your money, depending on the warranty terms for that part. Keep your receipt and packaging until you are certain the part works correctly.

Services offered beyond parts sales

Many Advance Auto Parts locations offer services beyond selling parts. Some stores have in-house service bays where technicians can install parts you purchase, such as batteries, wiper blades, or air filters. Not all locations offer installation services, so call ahead to ask whether your nearest store does. Installation fees vary by service and location.

The store also offers a battery testing service, usually free, to check whether your current battery is failing. This can help you decide whether you need a replacement. Some locations rent or loan tools, such as engine hoists or diagnostic equipment, which can reduce the cost of a repair project if you plan to do the work yourself.

What to know before you shop

Bring your vehicle's year, make, and model, or your VIN, when you shop. This ensures you get the correct part the first time. If you are unsure what part you need, describe the problem to the staff — they can often recommend the right solution based on your vehicle and the symptoms you describe.

Check whether your store location is currently open before you go, especially on holidays or during bad weather. Many stores have extended hours during peak seasons like winter, when batteries and antifreeze are in high demand. If you are ordering online, review the estimated delivery or pickup date so you know when to expect your part. If you need a part urgently, call the store directly to confirm they have it in stock before you drive there.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Most returns require the part to be unused and in original packaging. If you installed a part and it did not solve your problem, contact the store to explain the issue. Some defective parts may be replaced under warranty even if installed, but this depends on the specific part and the reason it failed. Bring your receipt and the part to discuss your options with the staff.

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

Provide your vehicle's year, make, and model, or your VIN, to the staff or the website search tool. The system will show only parts designed for your vehicle. If you are unsure about the fit, ask a staff member to confirm before you buy. Some parts, like air filters or batteries, come in multiple sizes even for the same vehicle model, so verification is important.

What is the difference between standard and premium versions of the same part?

Premium or heavy-duty versions of parts like batteries, oil, or filters are designed to last longer or perform better under demanding conditions. They usually cost more than standard versions. The staff can explain the differences and help you decide which is right for your vehicle and driving habits. For routine maintenance, a standard part often works fine; for high-mileage vehicles or frequent towing, a premium part may be worth the extra cost.

Do I have to buy parts from Advance Auto Parts to use their installation service?

Most Advance Auto Parts locations require you to purchase the part from them if you want them to install it. Some locations may make exceptions, but this varies. Call your local store to ask about their policy before you bring in a part from another retailer.

Can I order a part online and pick it up at a different store location?

Yes, many Advance Auto Parts locations allow you to order online and pick up at any store, not just the one nearest you. This is useful if one location has the part in stock and another does not. Check the pickup location options when you place your online order to confirm the store you want is available.