Advance Auto Parts

Advance Auto Parts, located at 820 13th St, Portsmouth, OH 45662, USA, is a prominent Auto Repair Station in the sense that it provides essential goods and services crucial for vehicle maintenance and repair, catering to both professional mechanics and do-it-yourself (DIY) enthusiasts. As part of a large national chain, this specific store aims to offer a wide selection of automotive parts, accessories, and a suite of convenient in-store services to the local Portsmouth community.

The environment at Advance Auto Parts, as with most retail auto parts stores, is typically a structured and product-focused space. Shelves are stocked with a vast array of parts, fluids, tools, and accessories, organized to allow customers to browse and locate what they need. While the store aims for a consistent brand experience across its locations, customer feedback for this particular Portsmouth branch offers a mixed perspective. One review highlights a less engaged staff, with multiple workers seemingly busy with non-customer related tasks, leading to a delay in assistance. This suggests that during peak times or "truck days," as mentioned, the customer service experience on the sales floor might be inconsistent. Conversely, another review praises this specific store, along with its New Boston counterpart, for being "great," with "very nice and courteous" employees, especially for online purchase pickups. This indicates that the environment can be efficient and positive, particularly when customers utilize their online ordering system for quick in-store or curbside pickup.

As an Auto Repair Station primarily focused on parts sales and supporting DIY and professional repairs, Advance Auto Parts offers a comprehensive range of goods and several valuable services. Their inventory includes:

• **Auto Parts:** A vast selection of replacement parts for various vehicle systems, including brakes (pads, rotors), engine components (oil filters, spark plugs), electrical components (alternators, starters, batteries), suspension parts, and more.
• **Fluids and Chemicals:** Motor oil (conventional and synthetic), transmission fluid, brake fluid, coolant/antifreeze, fuel additives, and various cleaning and detailing products.
• **Accessories:** Car care products, tools, lighting, and other items for vehicle maintenance and customization.

Beyond parts sales, the store provides several complimentary in-store services designed to assist customers, making it more than just a retail outlet. These include:

• **Free Battery Testing and Installation:** Customers can bring in their vehicle's battery for a free test to determine its health. If a new battery is purchased, free installation is typically provided for most vehicles.
• **Battery Recycling:** They offer free recycling of old automotive batteries, promoting environmentally responsible disposal.
• **Starter and Alternator Testing:** Similar to battery testing, they can test starters and alternators on or off the vehicle to help diagnose starting or charging system issues.
• **Check Engine Light Scanning (OBD-II):** For vehicles manufactured after 1996, they offer free scanning of the On-Board Diagnostics II (OBD-II) system to retrieve trouble codes, which can help in diagnosing engine issues. While they can't perform further diagnostics or repairs, they can provide the code and often suggest potential causes.
• **Wiper Blade Installation:** If customers purchase new wiper blades, the store generally offers free installation, ensuring proper fit and function.
• **Oil and Coolant Recycling:** They provide free recycling services for used motor oil, gear oil, and coolant/antifreeze, another environmental benefit for DIYers.
• **Loaner Tool Program:** This valuable service allows customers to borrow specialized tools for a refundable deposit, enabling them to complete complex repairs without purchasing expensive tools they may only use once.

The distinguishing features of Advance Auto Parts at this Portsmouth location, and the chain in general, are centered on convenience, product availability, and helpful services. The ability to purchase a wide array of parts quickly is a major draw, especially for urgent repairs. Their **online order and pickup services**, including in-store pickup within 30 minutes and curbside pickup, are highly praised by customers, offering a significant convenience factor for those who prefer to order ahead and minimize time spent in the store. The array of **free in-store services** like battery testing, OBD-II scanning, and recycling initiatives add considerable value beyond simple product sales, empowering customers to perform basic diagnostics and environmentally dispose of automotive waste. The availability of a **loaner tool program** further supports the DIY community, making repairs more accessible and affordable.

While the service experience with staff engagement can vary, as indicated by the reviews, the overall business model of Advance Auto Parts emphasizes accessibility to parts and a supportive set of services for vehicle owners. The staff, when engaged, are noted to be "nice and courteous," contributing to a positive customer experience. The sheer volume of inventory available, often backed by a vast distribution network, ensures that most common and many uncommon parts are readily available or quickly procurable.

In terms of promotional information, Advance Auto Parts, as a national retailer, frequently runs various promotions and deals. While no specific promotions were included in the immediate prompt, customers can typically expect to find:

• **Weekly and Monthly Sales Ads:** Advertised discounts on popular items like oil change bundles, brake components, and various accessories.
• **Online-Exclusive Deals:** Discounts and promotions available only through their website or mobile app.
• **Loyalty Programs:** Programs that reward frequent shoppers with points or discounts on future purchases.
• **Rebates and Sweepstakes:** Opportunities for cash back or prizes on select product purchases.