Advance Auto carries spark plugs for most vehicles, but selection and price vary by store location and current inventory
Advance Auto Parts stocks spark plugs across their stores and online, though what's in stock at any given location depends on your vehicle's year, make, and model. The chain carries multiple brands — Bosch, Champion, Autolite, ACDelco, and their house brand Autocraft — at different price points. You can check what's available before you drive to a store, and you have the option to buy online for home delivery or in-store pickup.
The real variable is whether Advance Auto has the exact spark plug your vehicle needs in stock right now. A 2015 Honda Civic needs different plugs than a 2020 Ford F-150, and a store's inventory shifts based on local demand and supply. This is why checking before you go — either online or by calling the store — saves you a wasted trip.
Key Takeaways
- Advance Auto's website lets you enter your vehicle information to see which spark plugs fit and which are in stock at stores near you.
- You can buy online for pickup the same day at many locations, or order for home delivery if you prefer not to visit a store.
- Spark plug prices at Advance Auto range widely depending on brand and type — standard copper plugs cost less than iridium or platinum variants.
- Advance Auto staff can help you confirm the right plug for your vehicle, but bringing your owner's manual or current plug ensures accuracy.
- Store inventory changes frequently, so checking online or calling ahead prevents you from arriving to find the plug you need is out of stock.
How to find the right spark plug for your vehicle
Start by going to advanceautoparts.com and using their vehicle selector tool. You enter your vehicle's year, make, model, and engine size, and the site shows you which spark plugs are compatible. This step matters because using the wrong plug can damage your engine or cause it to run poorly.
If you don't know your engine size or prefer to work with someone in person, you can call your local Advance Auto store or visit in person with your vehicle's VIN (the 17-character code on your dashboard or registration). Staff can look up the correct plug. Bringing your owner's manual or the old spark plug you're replacing also works — the manual lists the exact specification, and the old plug shows the size and type you've been using.
Checking inventory and prices before you go
The Advance Auto website shows you real-time inventory at stores within a set distance from your zip code. When you search for a spark plug after entering your vehicle info, you'll see which stores have it in stock, how many units they have, and the price. This prevents you from driving to a store only to find the plug is out of stock.
Prices vary by brand and type. A standard copper spark plug from Autocraft (Advance Auto's house brand) typically costs less than a premium iridium or platinum plug from Bosch or Champion. The website displays the price for each option, so you can compare before you decide. Some locations also offer in-store promotions or discounts that show up on the website.
Buying online for pickup or delivery
If you order online, you can choose same-day pickup at most Advance Auto locations. The site tells you which stores near you offer this option and what time you can pick up your order. This works well if you want to avoid browsing the store or if you're ordering outside business hours.
Advance Auto also ships spark plugs to your home. Delivery times vary — standard shipping typically takes several business days, and faster options are available for an additional fee. If you're not in a rush and prefer to have the plug delivered, this removes the need to visit a store at all.
What spark plug types cost and how they differ
Advance Auto carries three main types of spark plugs, each with a different price and lifespan. Copper spark plugs are the least expensive and typically last 10,000 to 30,000 miles. Iridium plugs cost more but last 60,000 to 100,000 miles or longer. Platinum plugs fall between the two in both price and lifespan, usually lasting 30,000 to 100,000 miles depending on the specific product.
Your vehicle's manufacturer recommends one type in your owner's manual. Using a different type won't necessarily harm your engine, but it may not perform as well or last as long as intended. The manual also specifies the gap (the space between the electrodes), which Advance Auto staff can confirm when you buy.
In-store shopping and staff help
When you visit an Advance Auto store, staff can help you locate spark plugs and confirm you're buying the right type for your vehicle. Bring your VIN, owner's manual, or the old spark plug if you have it. Staff can also answer questions about installation, though Advance Auto does not perform installation at most locations — you'll need to install them yourself or take your vehicle to a mechanic.
Store layouts vary, but spark plugs are typically in the engine maintenance or ignition section. If you can't find them, ask a staff member. Stores are usually busier during morning and early evening hours, so visiting mid-afternoon or mid-week may mean shorter wait times if you need help.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I return spark plugs if I buy the wrong ones?
Yes. Advance Auto accepts returns within a set timeframe if the plugs are unused and in original packaging. Bring your receipt or have your transaction number ready. If you opened the package or installed the plugs, return policies may be more limited, so ask about their specific return terms when you buy.
Does Advance Auto install spark plugs?
Most Advance Auto locations do not install spark plugs. Some franchise locations or partner shops may offer installation for a fee, but you'll need to call your local store to ask. Many customers install them at home or take their vehicle to an independent mechanic or dealership for installation.
What if my local store doesn't have the spark plug in stock?
You can order online for delivery to your home, or the store can order it and hold it for you to pick up later. The website shows estimated arrival dates for out-of-stock items. You can also check nearby Advance Auto locations to see if they have it in stock and drive to a different store if one is close.
How do I know if I need new spark plugs?
Your owner's manual lists the recommended replacement interval — typically every 30,000 to 100,000 miles depending on plug type and vehicle. If your engine is misfiring, hard to start, or running rough, worn spark plugs may be the cause. A mechanic can inspect them and tell you if replacement is needed.
Are Advance Auto's house brand spark plugs as good as name brands?
Autocraft plugs meet the same specifications as name brands and carry a warranty. They cost less because Advance Auto sells them directly without the marketing costs of brands like Bosch or Champion. Many customers use them without issues, though some prefer established brands for peace of mind.