The fastest way to find an open auto parts store near you
Your best option is to open Google Maps on your phone, search "auto parts near me," and look at the store listings that appear. Google shows you the distance, hours, and a green "Open" label if the store is currently serving customers. You can call the store directly from the listing, or tap "Directions" to navigate there. This takes about 30 seconds and tells you whether a specific location is open before you drive.
If Google Maps does not show what you need, the major national chains — AutoZone, O'Reilly Auto Parts, NAPA, and Advance Auto Parts — all have store locators on their websites. You enter your zip code, see which locations are nearby, and their hours appear when ready. Many of these chains also let you check whether a specific part is in stock at a specific store before you go.
Key Takeaways
- Google Maps is the fastest way to see which auto parts stores are open right now and how far away they are.
- National chains like AutoZone, O'Reilly, NAPA, and Advance Auto Parts have store locators on their websites that show current hours and stock.
- Calling ahead saves a trip — stores sometimes close early or run out of common parts, especially on weekends.
- Independent auto parts shops and local mechanics often stock parts that big chains do not, but you have to call to check their hours.
Using Google Maps to find stores and confirm they are open
Open Google Maps and search "auto parts near me." The results show a list of stores sorted by distance, with a green "Open" or red "Closed" label next to each one. Tap any store name to see its full hours, phone number, customer reviews, and directions. If the label says "Open," the store should be serving customers right now, though you may still encounter a line or a wait.
Google pulls hours from the store itself, but hours sometimes change without notice — holiday closures, staffing issues, or local events can shift when a store closes. If you are more than 10 minutes away, a quick phone call to confirm they have your part in stock and are still open is worth the 60 seconds. Many auto parts stores run out of common items like oil filters or batteries on Saturday afternoons.
Checking stock and hours on chain store websites
AutoZone, O'Reilly Auto Parts, NAPA, and Advance Auto Parts all have store locators on their main websites. Go to the store locator, enter your zip code, and you see nearby locations with their hours and phone numbers. Some of these sites let you search for a specific part number and see which nearby stores have it in stock right now.
This method is useful if you already know what part you need and want to avoid a wasted trip. For example, if you need a specific battery or air filter, you can search the part number on the store's website and see "In Stock" or "Out of Stock" for each location. If the part is out of stock everywhere nearby, the site may offer to ship it to the store for pickup, usually within one or two business days.
What to do if the major chains are closed
If it is late evening or early morning and the big chains are closed, look for independent auto parts shops or local mechanics in your area. These businesses often keep different hours and may be open when national chains are not. Search "auto parts open late near me" or "24-hour auto parts" on Google Maps to see what comes up, but be prepared to call — independent shops do not always update their hours online.
Some Walmart and Target locations stock basic auto parts like oil, filters, and batteries, and they are often open later than dedicated auto parts stores. Truck stops and gas stations sometimes carry emergency supplies like jumper cables, fuses, or coolant. If you need something when ready and nothing else is open, these are fallback options, though their selection is limited and prices are usually higher.
Calling ahead to confirm availability and hours
Before you drive to a store, especially on a weekend or holiday, call and ask three things: whether they are still open, whether they have the part you need, and how long the wait is. Many auto parts stores have a short hold time — usually 15 to 30 minutes — so you can reserve the part by phone. This is especially useful if you need something specific that is not a common item.
When you call, have your vehicle's year, make, and model ready, or have the part number if you already know it. The person on the phone can tell you whether the store has it in stock and whether you need to bring anything else — like your vehicle's VIN or a core charge if you are returning an old part. If the store is busy, they may ask you to call back in an hour or come back later.
Understanding store hours and weekend closures
Most national auto parts chains open between 7 and 8 a.m. on weekdays and close between 8 and 9 p.m. On Saturdays, they typically open at 8 or 9 a.m. and close between 6 and 8 p.m. On Sundays, hours are shorter — many open at 10 a.m. and close by 6 p.m., and some do not open on Sunday at all. Independent shops often have more limited hours, sometimes closing by 5 or 6 p.m. on weekdays.
Holiday hours vary widely. Many stores close on major holidays like Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day, or open for only a few hours. Some locations stay open on smaller holidays like Memorial Day or Labor Day. If you need a part on or around a holiday, check the store's website or call ahead — do not assume standard hours explore.
What happens if you cannot find the part locally
If the part you need is out of stock at every nearby store, you have a few options. Many auto parts chains can order the part and have it shipped to the store for pickup, usually within one to three business days. Some stores offer same-day or next-day delivery to your home if you order online. This is slower than buying in person, but faster than waiting for mail delivery.
Online retailers like Amazon, RockAuto, and eBay often have parts in stock that local stores do not, especially for older vehicles or less common models. Shipping times vary, but many parts arrive within a week. If you need the part urgently and cannot wait, a local mechanic or repair shop may have it on hand or be able to source it faster than you can — they often have relationships with suppliers and can pull parts from their own inventory.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I order a part online and pick it up at the store today?
Some stores offer same-day pickup if you order early enough in the day, but it depends on the store and the part. Check the store's website or call to ask whether they have the part in stock and whether you can pick it up today. If they do not have it in stock, they may be able to transfer it from another nearby location.
What is a core charge and do I have to pay it?
A core charge is a deposit you pay when you buy certain parts — like batteries, alternators, or starters — that you can get back when you return the old part. You typically pay the core charge upfront and get a refund when you bring the old part back to the store. If you do not return the old part, you keep the charge. Ask the store whether the part you are buying has a core charge before you pay.
Do I need to bring my vehicle to the auto parts store?
No, you do not need to bring your vehicle. You just need to know your vehicle's year, make, and model, or have the part number. If you are unsure what part you need, you can describe the problem to the store staff and they can help you figure it out. Some stores offer free diagnostic services if you bring the vehicle, but most can help you over the phone or in person without it.
Are auto parts stores cheaper than dealerships?
Auto parts stores are usually cheaper than dealerships for the same part, sometimes by 20 to 40 percent. However, dealership parts come with a warranty and are may provide to fit your specific vehicle. If you are buying from an independent auto parts store, double-check that the part is the right one for your vehicle before you leave.
What if the store is closed but I need a part urgently?
Call a local mechanic or repair shop — they often have parts in stock and can sell them to you, or they may let you borrow a part temporarily. Truck stops and some gas stations carry emergency supplies. If it is very late at night, you may have to wait until morning or order online for delivery.