Table of Contents

Does Advance Auto Do Oil Changes? Your Burning Questions Answered

No, Advance Auto Parts does not directly offer oil change services at its stores. Advance Auto Parts is primarily a retailer of automotive parts, tools, and accessories. They are your go-to source for purchasing the oil, filters, and tools you need to perform an oil change yourself, or to supply to your trusted mechanic. Think of them as the supplier, not the service provider.

Understanding Advance Auto’s Role in Your Oil Change

While they don’t physically change your oil, Advance Auto plays a crucial role in the oil change process. They provide the necessary materials and expert advice to empower you to take control of your vehicle maintenance. They are the pit stop, not the pit crew.

Why Doesn’t Advance Auto Offer Oil Change Services?

The business model of Advance Auto Parts focuses on selling auto parts and accessories, rather than providing repair services. This specialization allows them to concentrate on:

Maintaining a vast inventory of parts: Ensuring you can find the exact oil, filter, and other components you need for your specific vehicle.
Offering competitive pricing: Focusing on volume sales of parts and accessories.
Providing knowledgeable customer service: Staff trained to help you choose the right products for your needs.
Offering online and in-store resources: Detailed information, guides, and tutorials for DIYers.

Adding oil change services would require significant investments in infrastructure, trained technicians, and waste disposal systems. This would deviate from their core business model and potentially dilute their focus on providing a wide selection of parts at competitive prices.

The DIY Oil Change: Embrace Your Inner Mechanic

Advance Auto Parts actively encourages and supports the do-it-yourself (DIY) oil change approach. They offer a wide range of resources to help you confidently perform this essential maintenance task. This includes:

High-quality motor oil: From conventional to synthetic blends and full synthetic options.
Oil filters: Matching filters for nearly every make and model of vehicle.
Oil change kits: Convenient packages containing oil, filter, and sometimes other essential items.
Tools: Wrenches, sockets, drain pans, and filter wrenches – everything you need to get the job done.
In-store experts: Staff members who can provide advice and guidance on selecting the right products and performing the oil change.
Online resources: Informative articles, videos, and guides that walk you through the process step-by-step.

By providing these resources, Advance Auto empowers you to save money, gain a better understanding of your vehicle, and experience the satisfaction of performing routine maintenance yourself.

Partnering with Local Mechanics: A Smart Alternative

If the DIY approach isn’t for you, don’t despair! Advance Auto Parts often partners with local mechanics and auto repair shops. This allows them to offer a convenient solution for customers who prefer professional service.

Referral programs: Advance Auto Parts may have partnerships with local mechanics to whom they can refer customers needing oil changes or other services.
Supply partnerships: Many local mechanics purchase their parts and supplies from Advance Auto Parts, ensuring they have access to high-quality products for your vehicle.
Convenient drop-off: You can purchase your oil and filter at Advance Auto, then drop your car off at a partnered mechanic who will handle the oil change.

This symbiotic relationship benefits everyone: Advance Auto Parts expands its reach, local mechanics gain access to a steady supply of parts, and you receive convenient and reliable service.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Oil Changes and Advance Auto Parts

Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify the role of Advance Auto Parts in your vehicle’s oil change needs:

Does Advance Auto Parts sell motor oil? Yes! Advance Auto Parts carries a comprehensive selection of motor oils, including conventional, synthetic blend, and full synthetic options, in various weights and brands. They stock brands you know and trust, as well as private label options.
Does Advance Auto Parts sell oil filters? Absolutely! They offer a wide variety of oil filters to fit virtually every make and model of vehicle. You can search online or in-store using your vehicle’s year, make, and model to find the correct filter.
Can I buy oil change kits at Advance Auto Parts? Yes, you can! Oil change kits are a convenient option that includes the correct amount of oil and the appropriate oil filter for your vehicle, saving you time and effort.
Does Advance Auto Parts offer any discounts on oil or oil filters? Yes! Advance Auto Parts frequently offers discounts, coupons, and promotions on motor oil, oil filters, and oil change kits. Check their website, mobile app, or weekly ad for current deals. They also often have bundle deals, allowing you to save when you purchase multiple items together.
Does Advance Auto Parts accept used oil for recycling? Yes, in most locations. Advance Auto Parts typically accepts used motor oil for recycling, helping you dispose of it responsibly. Check with your local store for specific details and quantity limits.
Does Advance Auto Parts sell tools needed for an oil change? Yes, they do! Advance Auto Parts carries a wide range of tools necessary for performing an oil change, including wrenches, sockets, drain pans, oil filter wrenches, and more.
Can Advance Auto Parts help me find the right oil and filter for my car? Absolutely! Their knowledgeable staff can assist you in finding the correct oil and filter for your specific vehicle. You can also use their online vehicle lookup tool.
Does Advance Auto Parts offer instructions or guides for performing an oil change? Yes! Advance Auto Parts provides a wealth of online resources, including articles, videos, and guides, that walk you through the oil change process step-by-step. They also often have printed guides available in-store.
If I buy oil and a filter at Advance Auto Parts, can they install it for me? No, not directly. As mentioned, Advance Auto Parts does not offer oil change services. However, they may be able to refer you to a local mechanic who can perform the service.
What should I do with my old oil filter after changing my oil? Many Advance Auto Parts locations will accept your used oil filter for recycling. They will typically have a specific container or designated area for used filters. Check with your local store for their specific procedures.
Does Advance Auto Parts sell synthetic oil? What is the difference between synthetic and conventional oil? Yes, they sell synthetic oil. Synthetic oil is generally a higher-quality oil that provides better engine protection and performance, especially in extreme temperatures. Conventional oil is a petroleum-based oil that is typically less expensive than synthetic oil. Advance Auto Parts offers a variety of both, allowing you to choose what best suits your vehicle’s needs and your budget.
Are there any environmental concerns related to changing my own oil? Yes, there are. It’s crucial to handle used oil and filters responsibly to prevent environmental contamination. Always recycle used oil and filters at designated collection centers. Never pour used oil down drains or onto the ground. Advance Auto Parts can provide information on local recycling options and proper disposal methods. Proper handling protects our environment.