Does Advance auto give you money for old batteries?
Advance Auto Parts participates in automotive battery recycling programs but does not provide direct cash refunds for old batteries. Many stores offer a core charge refund system, where customers receive a prepaid Visa card or store credit after returning used batteries purchased from them. The exact compensation depends on state regulations and battery type, typically ranging from $5–$20. Always bring the original receipt and ensure the battery meets their recycling criteria (e.g., intact casing, no leaks).
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How does Advance Auto’s battery recycling program work?
Advance Auto accepts old car batteries under a core exchange policy. When purchasing a new battery, a core charge (usually $10–$20) is added to the price, refunded upon returning the old unit within 30 days. Pro Tip: Call your local store beforehand—some locations limit daily intake due to storage constraints.
This program aligns with EPA regulations for lead-acid battery disposal. Mechanics often use this system to offset costs—for example, returning five batteries could yield $75 in credits. However, non-customers without proof of purchase rarely qualify for refunds. Why does this matter? Improper disposal risks environmental penalties up to $10,000 in some states. Always verify battery-handling protocols with staff.
What compensation formats does Advance Auto offer?
Compensation comes as store credits or prepaid cards, not cash. The amount depends on battery size—group 24 units often fetch $15, while larger AGM batteries may return $25. Check their website for real-time rates; holiday promotions sometimes double core refunds.
Unlike scrap yards paying by lead weight (currently ~$0.40/lb), Advance Auto’s fixed rates prioritize convenience over profit. For context, a 40-lb battery contains ~20 lbs of lead—scrapping it elsewhere might yield $8 cash. But is the extra $3 worth multiple trips? For most DIYers, the instant in-store credit justifies the trade-off. Always remove terminal caps before drop-off to speed processing.
| Comp Type | Advance Auto | Scrap Yard |
|---|---|---|
| Format | Store Credit | Cash |
| Avg Value | $15 | $8 |
| Convenience | High | Low |
Can I recycle non-automotive batteries here?
No—Advance Auto only accepts lead-acid vehicle batteries. Lithium-ion, NiMH, or alkaline batteries (e.g., from power tools) require specialized recyclers. Retailers like Best Buy or Home Depot often handle these.
Mixing battery types risks rejection—lithium batteries in lead-acid bins can cause fires. A 2023 incident in Texas saw a recycling truck blaze traced to a discarded e-bike battery. How to avoid this? Use Call2Recycle.org’s locator for proper disposal sites. Pro Tip: Tape lithium battery terminals with non-conductive material before transport to prevent short circuits.
Battery Expert Insight
FAQs
No, but the battery must be intact and free from major damage. Missing terminals or cracked cases may reduce refund eligibility.
Are motorcycle batteries accepted?
Yes, if they’re lead-acid type. Compensation typically ranges from $5–$10 depending on size and store policy.