Advance Auto Parts Return Policy 2023: Everything You Need to Know
Shopping for auto parts can be complicated. With so many specialist items, you want to make sure you get the exact right part the first time. But what if something doesn‘t fit or turns out to be the wrong item? This guide will explain everything you need to know about returns and exchanges at Advance Auto Parts in 2024.
When Can Items Be Returned to Advance Auto Parts?
The return window at Advance Auto Parts stores is 45 days from the original purchase date, according to their current return policy.
This 45 day timeframe applies whether you bought something at a physical store location or made an online purchase and had it shipped to you.
Over 75% of returns happen within the first week, according to industry data. Advance Auto Parts gives customers over a month to decide if they are satisfied.
The return window is meant to give adequate time for trying out a part to see if it fits your vehicle properly.
What is Needed to Return an Item?
To make any return at Advance Auto Parts, here‘s what you‘ll need:
- The original receipt showing purchase date and price paid
- A valid photo ID – this can include a driver‘s license, military ID, passport, etc.
- The item in its original manufacturer‘s packaging
Upon returning, Advance Auto Parts will check their records and verify the purchase.
- Having the receipt ensures you get back the full amount you originally paid.
- The ID provides proof of purchase if the item was bought with a debit or credit card.
What If You Lost Your Receipt?
If you don‘t have the original receipt, Advance Auto Parts may still offer an in-store merchandise credit based on the item‘s current selling price. However, no cash refunds are given without a valid receipt.
You can also ask the store to look up your purchase if you used an existing rewards account at the time. Or call Advance‘s customer service line at 1-877-ADVANCE to request a receipt copy.
Are Opened or Used Items Returnable?
According to their posted return policy, merchandise must be in its original packaging to be returned. So any opened items are not eligible for return or refund at Advance Auto Parts.
This includes:
- Boxes that have been opened or seals that are broken
- Any parts that show signs of wear or use
- Items with missing components or parts
The only exception is for defective products still under a valid manufacturer’s warranty. If the part fails right away or is damaged out of the box, Advance Auto Parts will exchange it under warranty coverage.
Here’s an example:
You buy an air filter that turns out to not fit your vehicle make and model. As long as it‘s still unopened in the original box, you can return for a refund within 45 days.
But if you opened and tried installing that air filter, it‘s now considered used merchandise. At that point, Advance Auto Parts will not accept it as a return.
What Items Are Non-Returnable?
Advance Auto Parts has a list of parts classified as non-returnable, typically because they are special order electrical components. These include:
- Sensors
- Relays
- Engine computers
- ABS modules
- Custom-cut cables
See the full list of non-returnable parts from Advance Auto Parts.
For these items, any return request has to be submitted for review and approval before refund or exchange. Speak to a store manager beforehand if unsure.
How Do You Return Online Purchases?
Items ordered online from AdvanceAutoParts.com can be returned one of two ways:
Return by mail using a prepaid UPS label requested through your online account.
Take the item to your nearest Advance Auto Parts store location.
In either case, the same 45 day window and original packaging requirements apply.
Here‘s a comparison of in-store vs online returns:
| Return Method | Process | Return Window |
|---|---|---|
| In-store | Return to any store with receipt and original packaging | Within 45 days of purchase |
| Online Orders | Print UPS label or return to local store | Within 45 days of order date |
Shipping fees are refunded if the return is due to a warehouse error. Otherwise, the initial shipping cost is non-refundable.
Can You Return to Any Advance Auto Parts Store?
Yes, returns and exchanges can be processed at any store location, regardless of the original purchase point. As long as you have your receipt and ID within the 45 day policy, another store can handle the refund.
Advance Auto Parts has a connected system to lookup receipts and details from purchases made anywhere in their chain.
The Bottom Line
Hopefully this guide provided you with all the key details around Advance Auto Parts‘ return policy for 2024. The main takeaways are:
- 45 day return window from original purchase date
- Must have original receipt and packaging
- No returns accepted for opened or used parts
- Some specialized items are non-returnable
Knowing the return and exchange policies ahead of time makes for a smooth customer experience. Don‘t hesitate to ask an Advance Auto Parts associate if you have any other questions before purchasing!
