A car battery purchase can be complicated enough, but where is the best location to get a battery for your vehicle? Do you use the internet to place your orders? Alternatively, why not pay a visit to your neighborhood car parts store? Another option is a national retailer.
Confusion, like mine, is unavoidable in the face of so many possibilities. In order to make it easier for you, I’ve compiled all of my research into one place.
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Car batteries can be found in a wide variety of places, from auto parts stores to supermarkets, but not all of them can be trusted with such a vital part of your vehicle. The following is a list of the top 10 automotive battery distributors in the United States:
Walmart
Auto Parts Depot
Pep Boys is a popular brand.
The Sam’s Club
Car Parts and Accessories from Napa
Costco
Ignition Lock Zone
Batteries Plus is a retailer of batteries.
Amazon
Motors for sale on eBay
While this article focuses on national corporations, there may be local businesses that offer superior auto parts.
If you’ve known these stores for a long time, buying from them is a question of trust and loyalty.
Dealerships are a choice if you’ve narrowed your search to a specific make and model of car battery, but they’re the most expensive.
Where To Buy A Car Battery (You Can Choose The Top 10 Places Below!)
1. Walmart
Walmart is the top on my list, a multinational American retailer with locations in more than 100 countries.
However, the United States has the most locations, so chances are good that you’ll be able to locate one near where you reside.
Although it is well-known for its grocery and household products, you can find just about anything, including automobile batteries, there.
EverStart car batteries, Walmart’s own in-house brand, are available for purchase.
Batteries for Walmart are made by Johnson Controls, the same company that makes batteries for well-known brands like Optima and DieHard.
A 3 year Maxx, 2 year Plus and 1 year Value warranty are also available from the company.
Both online and in-store, Walmart sells batteries from the company’s collection. Alternatively, you can order online and have it delivered to your store.
The store may be a better option for your battery purchase if you have access to one.
When compared to other places like Sam’s Club and Sears, the prices here are really reasonable. If you can, look for a facility that has an Auto Care Center on-site.
That way, you’ll be able to get a free battery installation from a professional. During this process, your current batteries are inspected and recharged if necessary.
You may not be able to get the support of Walmart personnel if you buy a battery online, but that’s not the case if you shop in-store.
In order to assist you find the right battery for your vehicle, Walmart has developed an online Battery Finder.
Pros
Batteries at a reasonable price but of high quality
Through the auto care center, the installation is free.
Find a battery online
Cons
Auto care centers aren’t available at every store.
The reliability of EverStart batteries might be hit or miss.
No test of the charging system
2. Advance Auto Parts
In the United States, a big chain of automobile aftermarket parts stores goes by the name of Advance Auto Parts. By the year 2020, it will have about 5000 locations across the United States and Canada.
Mechanics and car owners alike recommend it as the greatest site to buy all kinds of auto parts. They also provide services for automotive batteries.
Aftermarket auto parts stores typically have an extensive selection of vehicle batteries for a wide range of automobile types and prices.
Because of this, you should have no problem finding a model that works well for you and your budget.
Depending on the manufacturer and model, they offer a 2 to 3-year battery guarantee that’s competitively priced.
Buying from Advance Auto Parts can be done online through their store, which is the method I prefer and recommend to my friends and family. As a result, there is a constant discount available online.
Even if you’re a new customer, you’ll get 20% off your first purchase. Customers who have purchased from Advance Auto Parts in the past can save up to 30% based on current discounts.
Picking it up in person is always preferable to having it shipped to your house.
If it’s the former, you can arrive at the store with your order number as early as 15 minutes after placing it. You can choose your new battery and have it installed by our staff.
Finally, there is the core fee, which often ranges between $18 and $25.
Make sure you return the old battery to the store and get the core charge reimbursed to you when you replace it. Changing the battery yourself does not alter this.
Pros
Online prices are considerably lower than in-store costs.
Installing free software is simple.
Battery and system diagnostics are provided at no charge.
Amount of Power in the Center
Cons
Online prices remain high and unchanged.
3. Pep Boys
Since its founding in Philadelphia, Pep Boys has been a pioneering automotive aftermarket retailer with a wide range of products and services.
They have more than 930 stores and 8300 service bays across the globe.
Because of their extensive range of products and automobile batteries, they are well-known among mechanics and DIYers alike.
From Optima to Champion, they have a wide variety of batteries to fit any price point or need.
One of the things I enjoy about Pep Boys is their readiness to assist novices and do-it-yourselfers with their vehicles’ maintenance.
Car batteries are just one of the many services offered by these professionals.
Pep Boys has a limited variety of automotive batteries available for purchase online through their website.
Customers of different socioeconomic backgrounds can find something to their liking in their store’s many selections.
Pros
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As far as in-store services go, this is one of the finest
Enhanced in-store options
Cons
For the first thirty minutes, battery installation is free; after that, costs apply.
According to other shops, this store is expensive
Online, there aren’t many options.
4. Sam’s Club
A membership-only retail warehouse, Sam’s Club was founded by the Walton family and is very much like its parent firm, Wal-Mart.
It’s because of this that you’ll be able to locate cheaper batteries and better prices than at Walmart.
However, it differs from Walmart in the variety of products it carries.” It offers a wide range of products at lower prices than its competitors.
When compared to its competitors, the battery warranty that is provided is likewise unmatched.
Customers at Sam’s Club may expect a pleasant shopping experience. The installation of your new battery can be delayed so that you can go shopping or eat a meal in the store while you wait.
To shop in the store, you must be a member, which you can do online.
Visitors to the warehouse will be charged a service fee for purchasing items. When it comes to special offers and promotions, members get first crack at them.
Pros
Sam’s Club customers will receive a core charge refund on batteries purchased there.
Possibility of a battery check
Batteries are installed at no cost.
Cons
This is a member-only shop.
5. NAPA Auto Parts
Founded in 1925 by a group of auto parts suppliers, Napa Auto Works was the result of a desire to streamline the distribution of vehicle parts.
A combination of independent and company-owned NAPA Auto Parts outlets can be found across the United States.
Repair and maintenance services are also available at 15,000 service centers throughout the US.
Despite its higher prices, the business is known for its high-quality products and services. Exide is also the manufacturer of their in-house batteries.
The Legend Premium AGM and The Legend Premium Power are the two top-of-the-line Napa brand batteries.
The store carries a wide range of automobile batteries, from economical options to deep cycle and high-performance batteries, as well as the store’s own brand with a long warranty.
Additionally, Napa provides complimentary battery installation with their purchase. You can also stop by a store for battery checks and other maintenance if you’re nearby.
Pros
Longer term assurances
One of the most comprehensive web collections.
The batteries made by Napa are well-known.
Cons
Batteries can be pricey, though.
6. Costco
Aside from Costco, there are a few more membership-only clubs that are well-known in the United States and around the world.
There are currently 785 locations globally, with 546 in the US alone. Third-largest retailer in United States.
Costco carries a wide variety of products, including automobile batteries. They carry their own brand of battery, Interstate, in addition to well-known names in the industry.
Costco’s batteries are manufactured by Johnson Controls, a well-known battery manufacturer, so there is no doubt about their quality.
Interstate battery models include the M, MT, MTP, MTX, and MTZ series, all of which are lead-acid; the MTZ, on the other hand, is an AGM model.
A free replacement guarantee of 18 months is also available.
Costco exclusively carries Interstate batteries, which, despite their quality, disadvantages the client. And the worst part is that they don’t put in the batteries.
For $10, you can get it done at Walmart if you’re lucky enough. Even still, the batteries are considerably less expensive than at Auto Parts stores, so you end up saving a lot of money.
This is where you can read the complete Costco car battery review: here.
Pros
Interstate is the name of their own battery brand.
The cost of a battery might be rather low.
Interstate batteries provide an online battery finder.
Cons
Absence of a set-up
You are unable to make an online purchase.
No other battery brand is sold here.
7. AutoZone
Choosing AutoZone as a place to get my batteries is a no-brainer for me.
As a result, they carry a wide range of brands, from Optima and ACDelco to Valucraft and Econocraft, and their own Duralast brand.
Similarly to Advance Auto Components, AutoZone is the nation’s second-largest retailer of aftermarket car parts.
About 6400 of their stores can be found throughout the United States as well as Mexico, Brazil, and Puerto Rico. There’s a good chance that there are at least one or two stores in your neighborhood.
Additionally, AutoZone has its own proprietary battery brand, Duralast, which is available in three different grades: standard Duralast; gold-plated Duralast; and platinum-plated Duralast (AGM).
The Duralast Gold line has a number of decent options, but I wouldn’t recommend the cheapest choice. A minimum of four years is required for a warranty of two years, however they can live much longer.
Lastly, Johnson Control is the source of their batteries.
If you need a new car battery, AutoZone offers a free battery check and installation. Other minor checks and inspections are also performed, including a battery recharge as necessary.
Pros
Battery selection is excellent.
Buying online is an option.
Cons
Expensive in comparison to stores like Walmart and Costco.
8. Batteries Plus Bulbs
Battery Plus Bulbs is the place to go if you want to get batteries of various shapes and sizes. Even if you don’t have an iPhone, you can get a battery for it, too.
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Additional services include the repair of phones and tablets, key fobs, car bulbs, UPS batteries, watch batteries etc. They also manage your lighting needs.
They’ve been in business for 32 years and have 650 locations in 47 states and Puerto Rico.
Battery Plus Bulbs works with local merchants to achieve the best deal possible for you as a customer.
Your battery can be purchased in-store or ordered online and picked up at one of their locations.
It is possible to have your car battery installed within minutes of ordering the battery online in the latter situation. Deliveries are available if you’d like to handle the work yourself.
Pros
New batteries can be installed for free.
Battery check and recharging are completely free.
a facility for recycling
Cons
A small number of establishments
9. Amazon
If you need a battery, Amazon can bring it to you, and that’s fine with me.
Their prices are lower than those of any physical store, and they frequently have incredible offers. Because of this Amazon should be the first place you go to when you’re shopping online.
As a result, you won’t have to worry about fake products or shady transactions at Amazon.com.
If you’re willing to wait a few days for a new product from any brand or model, local or worldwide, you can count on Amazon to have it for you.
Amazon, on the other hand, does not offer any perks, such as free installation or battery system checks, to customers. You may either do it yourself or have it done at your local Walmart.
This is just a warning: if the battery you purchase does not fit your device, you will be stuck with it if it is not returnable.
I’ve compiled a list of 10 of the most popular car batteries available on Amazon.
Pros
Batteries that are affordable and easy to find.
A wide variety of options are available.
Stable groundwork
Cons
A system check or installation are not possible because it is a door-to-door delivery
In order to receive the battery, please be patient.
10. eBay Motors
The last place you’d think to find a cheap battery is eBay, but eBay Motors is the place to go if you’re strapped for cash.
If you’re patient, you can find batteries from names like Optima, Odyssey, and Duralast at reasonable costs, but you’ll have to sift through hundreds of results to find what you need.
If you’re familiar with your car’s battery, you’ll be fine. If all else fails, you can use their battery fitment filter to locate a suitable replacement.
There is no option to install or test the battery, just like with Amazon. Even if you choose the Fast ‘n Free option, you will still have to wait.
I have a low opinion of many eBay vendors because of the numerous opportunities for fraud. However, eBay’s buyer protection program should take care of you. Remember that there are legitimate merchants out there.
Pros
Batteries at a discount
Cons
Unreliable and untrustworthy
You won’t get an on-site installation or system check with this service because it’s an online one.
Dealerships Vs. Local Mechanic Shops
The dealerships are trusted by many individuals, even when it comes to basic battery replacements. Even more extensive services are offered by the shop, such as a complete engine rebuild or an oil change.
The same holds true for your neighborhood mechanic. They can perform just about anything to your car, depending on their level of expertise.
Then then, it all comes down to your mechanic. While the mechanic’s prices are substantially lower than those of the dealerships, you will receive no warranty as a result of their work.
Dealerships and mechanics do more than simply replace the battery; they also look for problems with the starter and alternator, so your car will be in great working order when you pick it up.
Even if you have a good relationship with your dealership, you may not always be able to rely on the mechanic to perform proper work. If you’re a customer of a dealership, you could be taken advantage of.
Pros
Accredited mechanics
Check your car’s other components, not simply the battery.
Cons
Both solutions are pricey, but you can save money by having your mechanic do it.
Appointments are required
Some days you don’t get your automobile back right away.
Consider These When Buying A Car Battery
Buying a car battery, which is both pricey and essential, is a big undertaking. Before making a decision, take the following factors into account.
Installation
Unless you’ve done this before, you shouldn’t attempt to install the car battery yourself. Despite the fact that it is simple to do so, you may get into difficulty if the system fails or shorts out.
To avoid paying for installation, shop for a battery at an auto parts store, Walmart, Sears, or any retailer that offers it for free. As long as I can get my battery system examined at an auto parts store, that’s where I’d go.
Installation services are not provided by some retailers, such as Costco and other internet companies.
Even if you’re ordering from an auto parts store, make sure you pick it up at the store rather than having it delivered. Walmart, on the other hand, also provides battery installation services.
Warranty
Everything connected to your automobile should be covered by a guarantee. If your battery dies within a few months, you’ll be in danger.
If you buy a battery, you should get at least a two-year warranty, but I’ve found that the cost of the battery influences the warranty length.
When you buy a battery, the retailer should honor the manufacturer’s guarantee and provide an easy replacement.
This is a strong suit for most auto parts stores. As a result, they have excellent warranties and you can get a replacement at any location.
Battery Life
If you get a good battery, it should last you four years. Make sure that the battery life of the product you purchase is adequate. You may also check the battery’s life by performing a simple test.
In this case, your local auto parts store should handle it. However, with other retailers, such as Walmart, it is contingent on the specific location.
Because they choose knowledgeable employees, they are able to peek under the hood or at the very least tell you what to do, much like NAPA. Having a basic understanding of your battery’s functions can help you keep an eye out for any warning indicators.
Old Battery Disposal
Because batteries contain hazardous materials such as lead and acid, they cannot be thrown away in the same manner as other household items. You should be able to dispose of old batteries at the store where you purchase them.
Advance Auto Parts is one of the few places that will buy your old battery and reimburse you for the core charge. Again, this isn’t something that every store does. To find out more, it’s possible you’ll have to contact the store directly.
Conclusion
All of the locations on this page have their own perks and disadvantages. However, the decision of which store to visit is entirely up to you.
In addition, learn about the business practices of the store in your area to make an informed decision.
If an Advance Auto Parts or an Autozone is nearby, I’d recommend those two.
The best batteries are made by Optima, but if you’re on a tight budget, you can also utilize in-house brands.
If you’re a mechanic or know your way around a car, you can shop online, but you’ll have to take responsibility for any issues that develop.
Sources: https://micdot.com
Category: Car
