Discover the Hidden Gem of Walmart Car Batteries
Walmart sells car batteries at affordable and can last as long as top brands. They offer their private label, making it one of the best places to buy car batteries. With its low prices, great selection, and convenient locations, Walmart is a top choice for many drivers looking to replace a cheap car battery. Whether looking for a long-lasting, high-quality car battery or a more budget-friendly option, Walmart is a great place to start your search.
At most Walmarts, you will find an automotive section towards the back of the store, where you will see several shelves filled with car batteries. Based on our research Walmart offers the best on car batteries. We compared Walmart battery to auto part stores such as Advance Auto Parts and AutoZone.
Having previously purchased four Walmart car batteries, we want to give you an insight and answer some common questions that most people have regarding Walmart car batteries.
How much is a car battery at Walmart?
Walmart car battery range from 65 up to 140. The battery’s price depends on the battery size and grade (Value, Plus, Maxx). For example, we were looking for a new battery for a Europen vehicle.
At our local Walmart, the battery was listed for 129.76.
The same size battery was listed for 200 at Advance Auto Parts.
Advance Auto Parts also had a cheaper alternative priced at 131.99, but this had a shorter warranty.
The same size battery was listed for 159.99 at the local AutoZone part store. AutoZone battery line is known as Duralast. Based on our research, Walmart offers the best on a new car battery and very competitive warranty terms.
Battery vary by group size. Most batteries at Walmart range from 65 to 140, while the average price for a Walmart battery is 98. The price of the battery will vary as it depends on two factors:
How do I choose the right Walmart battery for my car?
When you buy a car battery from Walmart, make sure to match the group size. Your old battery should have the group size printed on top. Sometimes, the group size is not printed on the old battery, or the grouping may differ from what Walmart uses.
To find the correct Walmart car battery for your car, you can also use the Battery Finder tool developed by Walmart.
In addition to the battery size (group size), we recommend choosing a battery with Cold Cranking Amp (CCA) and Cranking Amps (CA) that are as close as possible to the battery that is installed in your car.
Are Walmart car batteries any good?
So your next question is, “Are Walmart batteries any good?” All the batteries we purchased from Walmart have lasted as long or longer than the warranty period.
Is it possible that a Walmart battery will fail before the warranty expires? Absolutely. But if that does happen, you are covered by the warranty. If that is the case, stop by any Walmart store to get a free replacement. You don’t even need the receipt.
We have found that Walmart car batteries are as good, if not better than DieHard batteries sold at Advance Auto Parts and Duralast batteries sold by Autozone. Which battery type you purchase will also make a difference.
How long do Walmart car batteries last?
How long a Walmart car battery lasts depends if you have EverStart Value, Plus, or Maxx. Based on our experience, the EverStart Value can last two to four years. While the top of the line, EverStart Maxx lasts anywhere from three to five years.
EverStart plus battery was manufactured in 2017 and returned as a bad core to a local store in August 2021. It lasted four years before going bad and stopped holding a charge. Four years is the typical life of a battery on modern vehicles.
The exact life of a Walmart battery depends on how often the battery is used and even the environmental conditions. In freezing climates, the battery won’t last as long. This brings us to the next question: ” How long is the warranty on Walmart car batteries?”.
Walmart Battery Warranty
Walmart battery is one year, two years, or three years for Value Power, EverStart Plus, and EverStart Maxx, respectively. Walmart used to prorate the warranty after three years, but that’s no longer the case. All new Walmart batteries come with a one, two, or three-year warranty. The warranty period varies based on battery grade, Everstart Value, Plus, and Maxx.
Each grade has a different warranty period.
- Value Power: Free replacement within ONE year of purchase
- EverStart Plus: Free replacement within TWO years of purchase
- EverStart Maxx: Free replacement within THREE years of purchase. No warranty at all after five years.
Different batteries have different warranties, so you should check the warranty for the battery that you buy. The return is painless, except that it must be done at the automotive service desk. The technician may test your old battery to determine if your battery is bad or not.
Does Walmart install car batteries for free?
Walmart will install a car battery for free. Free battery installation service is only available at Walmarts with an automotive service department, which is common in most Walmart Supercenters.
Even though all Walmart stores sell car batteries, not all are supercenters; therefore, they do not have an automotive service center. If you buy the battery from one of those stores, you must install it yourself.
What does battery core charge mean?
Walmart charges a 12 core charge, which should show on your receipt. Once you install the new battery, take back the old battery to get the core charge refunded back to your card.
An even better approach is to remove the old battery from the car and take it with you when you purchase a new battery to get credit for a core refund. Otherwise, you will be charged a battery core fee which you can get back when you return the old battery.
How does the Walmart battery warranty work?
If your battery stops working within the warranty period, you can swap it out for a replacement battery at no charge.
If your car battery no longer holds a charge, take it back to a Walmart store to get a replacement. Just make sure you are still within the warranty period.
If you don’t remember when you purchased the battery, look for a sticker on the battery side. It has the month and dates the battery was purchased.
- The battery no longer holds a charge.
- Corrosion or battery leakage
- The battery case begins to bulge.
- The battery will not charge to its full capacity.
- The battery will not start your vehicle.
Remember that you might not get a free replacement if you abuse the battery. Below you will see the damages that are not covered under warranty.
- If your battery was damaged.
- The vehicle was involved in an accident, and the battery was damaged.
- The battery was left exposed to outdoor elements and was destroyed.
- You installed the battery backward.
Ultimately, your Walmart store has the final say, and it is their discretion to make that determination.
Can I get a Walmart car battery replaced if I have no receipt?
Walmart will exchange a bad car battery even if you have no receipt as long as the battery was bought at a Walmart store and is still under warranty. The battery has a serial number label; the store associate can use this number to determine when the battery was purchased.
If you are unsure how old your Walmart battery is, look at the month/year sticker on the battery.
How do I claim a Walmart battery warranty?
To claim the Walmart Battery Warranty, you must visit the service desk at your local Walmart Auto Care Center.
You can visit a different store, but if you visit the same store it was purchased from, they might be able to look up your original receipt if you can provide the purchase date.
Additionally, the serial number of your battery might aid in identifying the purchase date.
Can you return a car battery to Walmart?
Walmart’s policy allows you to return a car battery if it has not been installed. How does Walmart know that the battery has been installed? Because the battery posts typically have marks made by battery terminals.
Who makes Walmart Everstart car batteries?
Walmart uses various manufacturers to make Everlast batteries. Who manufactured the Everlast battery sold at your local Walmart depends on the US region where the battery is being sold.
Most EverStart has been made by Johnson Controls, known as Clarios, since 2019. Other manufacturers that make Everstart batteries are East Penn Manufacturing and Alien Power Systems.
In the past, Walmart may have used Exide. Currently, Exide is not making Walmart batteries which we confirmed by calling Everstart at 1 (888) 387-8278. On May 19, 2020, Exide (and four subsidiaries) filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection to facilitate the sale of its North American assets.
Johnson Controls is the world’s largest battery maker globally. The owner of global brands like Varta, LTH, Heliar, MAC, Delkor, and even Optima is the sole producer of all Wal-Mart Everstart Batteries. Johnson Controls and Wal-Mart partnered together back in 2010.
Does Walmart buy old car batteries?
Walmart does not buy old car batteries. Unless you buy a new battery from Walmart, they will give you a 12 core credit for the old battery.
This is taken care of automatically if Walmart replaces your battery.
If you plan on replacing the battery, you can take the old battery to the store after installing the new one in your car. If your receipt shows a core charge of 12, you can get it refunded if you return the old battery.
Does Walmart check car batteries for free?
Walmart Auto Care Center will test and install a new battery for free. It is important to note that not all Walmart stores have Auto Car Care Centers. Typically, Walmart Supercenters have auto care centers that will test your car battery for free.
Because most Auto Car Centers are very busy, it may take anywhere from 20 min to 45 min for them to test your battery. If you don’t have a Walmart Supercenter nearby, you can test your car battery using a simple and easy-to-use Car Battery Tester.
This video shows how to test a car battery yourself.
Does Walmart sell Interstate batteries?
No, Walmart does not sell Interstate batteries. Walmart sells its brand of batteries known as EverStart.
How to Contact EverStart
Customer Service
- (800) 925-6278 Walmart EverStart Division
- (866) 496-1999 – Johnson Controls
Conclusion
In our option, Walmart is one of the best places to buy a new car battery. Walmart’s car batteries are of good quality, reliable, and long-lasting. Walmart batteries are made by Johnson Controls, which makes some of the best batteries n the world, including VARTA.
Walmart also has the best on new car batteries. The warranty period is similar to what you will get from batteries you buy from Interstate, Advance Auto Parts, and Autozone. The only thing to remember is that even though you can buy a new car battery at any Walmart store, only supercenters with auto service centers will install it for free. Walmart does not charge to install a new battery. You will have to install the battery independently if you buy it from a store with no auto service center.
If you need to find out what Walmart battery fits your vehicle, use the Battery Finder tool. There are three Walmart car battery types: Valupower, Everstart Plus, and Everstart Maxx.
Warranty coverage for each type is as follows:
- The value powers are all one-year free replacement with the receipt.
- The Everstart plus batteries are a 2-year free replacement with the receipt.
- The Everstart Maxx batteries are a 3-year free replacement.
If you lose the recipe, you can still return the battery (as long it is still in warranty) and get a replacement, but you will have to pay taxes based on the battery’s price.
We hope you find the Everything You Need to Know About Walmart EverStart Car Battery guide helpful. Check these troubleshooting and repair guides for more help on your vehicle.
Author
Rushit Hila, an ASE-certified engineer (G1 Automotive Maintenance and Repair), brings over two decades of hands-on experience in the automotive world to his writing. With a strong educational background, including a Master of Science in Engineering and a Bachelor of Science in Engineering, he has honed his skills and expertise through years of practical work. As a respected authority in the field, Mr. Hila is dedicated to offering insightful and valuable content that resonates with both vehicle owners and mechanics. View all posts
Does AutoZone Install Batteries? (Updated 2023)
AutoZone sells car parts and accessories while also providing various testing and installation services.
The national auto parts retailer sells batteries, and as long as the installation process is straightforward and does not require the removal of any engine parts, an AutoZone employee will install the battery for free.
AutoZone employees can also help you determine if your battery needs to be replaced or is simply just dead and needs to be charged.
Does AutoZone Install Batteries?
Yes, AutoZone installs batteries.
Not only does AutoZone sell batteries, but they can install them, too, in most cases.
If your car’s battery is dead, won’t hold a charge, or if your car won’t start, it may be time for a new battery.
AutoZone carries a large selection of batteries and installs them.
The store also provides several other convenient battery services.
The store employees are trained to help customers determine what is wrong with their vehicle and find the parts they need for the necessary repairs.
What Types Of Batteries Does AutoZone Install?
There’s more than one type of car battery, and if you have a certain type, you may want to replace it at the same time.
AutoZone sells and installs several different types of batteries, including the following.
Lead-Acid Batteries
This is one of the most common battery types and one of the most affordable.
They are made of six cells and reach a voltage of 12.6V when fully charged.
While these batteries are fairly low-maintenance, the electrolytes need to be refilled when they run low.
It is important to install these batteries at a vertical angle to prevent the acid from spilling out.
Gel Batteries
Gel batteries are similar to lead-acid batteries and are a type of flooded battery.
They are a newer design and do not spill easily.
Calcium is used to prevent the acid from spilling out, and silica is added to the electrolytes to thicken them up and turn them into a gel.
It’s a more durable battery and lasts longer than traditional lead-acid batteries.
Deep Cycle Batteries
Deep cycle batteries have a denser material and a thicker shell.
They are heavy-duty, and they draw a lower current but last longer.
They are sometimes called marine batteries and are often used in campers, boats, golf carts, and motorcycles.
They last a long time but can be more expensive than other types of batteries.
How Much Does AutoZone Charge To Install Batteries?
AutoZone will install a battery for free as long as you purchase that battery from them.
They will remove your old battery and take it in place of charging you a core fee.
They will install the new battery and ensure your car starts easily and runs properly with the battery installed.
They will not charge batteries that were purchased elsewhere.
If your battery has a complicated installation process, they may refuse to install it.
The employees will not install batteries if they have to remove different components on the car to reach the battery compartment or housing.
How Long Does It Take AutoZone To Install A Battery?
AutoZone employees can install a battery very quickly.
It usually only takes about 15 minutes to install a battery.
Employees are trained to install batteries in different types of vehicles, and some may be able to do it faster than others.
You can also install the battery yourself and ask an employee at AutoZone to check it for you.
Does AutoZone Deliver And Install Batteries?
AutoZone does offer shipping and partners with various delivery companies to get their products to the homes of customers.
They do not offer installation services with delivery.
You may order a battery online from AutoZone, have it delivered to your home, and then take it and your vehicle to AutoZone to have it installed by an employee.
You will need your receipt or packing slip to prove that you purchased the battery from AutoZone.
In some cases, the store may be able to look up your purchase by using your cell phone number.
Does AutoZone Charge A Core Fee For Batteries?
There is a core fee associated with buying batteries from AutoZone and other auto parts stores.
A core fee is a refundable deposit you pay when you buy a battery or certain other car parts.
When you buy a new battery from AutoZone, you will pay the core fee unless you provide your old battery at the time of purchase.
If you exchange your old battery, the core fee will be subtracted from the price of the new battery, so you will get it for a lower price.
Does AutoZone Test Batteries?
AutoZone offers free battery testing in stores.
If your vehicle’s battery won’t hold a charge, if your car struggles to turn over when you try to start it, or if you just notice that your battery seems weak, you can take it to an AutoZone store near you and ask to have it tested.
An AutoZone employee will be able to connect the battery to their testing cables and check it.
The employee will be able to tell you if your battery is dead and just needs to be charged or if it is damaged and needs to be replaced.
How Much Does AutoZone Charge To Test Batteries?
AutoZone does not charge a fee for battery testing.
AutoZone will also test batteries that were not purchased there.
You can bring any battery you have into an AutoZone store and ask them to test it for you.
You can even have multiple batteries tested.
If the battery tests bad, the employees may recommend that you get a new battery and will offer to keep the damaged battery in place of the core charge.
If you do decide to purchase a new battery, an employee at the store will install it for you for free.
How Long Does It Take AutoZone To Test Batteries?
It typically takes an AutoZone employee less than five minutes to test a battery.
You will need to take your vehicle and your battery to the AutoZone store and inform an employee that you would like to have the battery tested.
The employee will bring the battery tester out to your car and connect it to your battery.
It only takes a few seconds for the test to complete.
The employee will be able to tell you if your battery is in good condition or if it needs to be replaced.
They will also be able to tell you what percentage your battery can hold a charge.
If your battery is only holding a charge at a very small percentage, you may need to replace the battery immediately.
If the battery is able to hold a charge higher than 80%, you may be able to get a little more time out of your battery before you have to replace it.
Does AutoZone Charge Batteries?
AutoZone does offer battery charging services.
If your battery has gone dead or if you have extra batteries in your garage that haven’t been charged in a while, you can take them to an AutoZone store to have them charged.
Simply bring your battery to your nearest AutoZone store and ask them to charge it for you.
They will also check the health of the battery in the process.
Some employees will ask to check the health of the battery before they charge it, so they don’t waste time and space charging a battery that is bad and won’t hold a charge.
You can browse the store while your battery charges, or you can leave the battery and return to pick it up after it has had plenty of time to charge.
How Much Does AutoZone Charge To Charge Batteries?
AutoZone does not charge a fee for charging batteries.
You can bring any battery into an AutoZone store to have it charged.
AutoZone will even charge batteries that were not purchased there.
Some AutoZone locations may limit the number of batteries they will charge per person at one time and will probably want to check the health of the battery before they attempt to charge it.
How Long Does It Take AutoZone To Charge A Battery?
The time it takes a battery to charge at AutoZone can vary based on the battery’s capacity as well as the other batteries that are being charged.
AutoZone stores can only charge so many batteries at a time, and they will provide the charging services on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Once your battery is on the charger, it can take between two and three hours for the battery to be completely charged.
Does AutoZone Buy Old Batteries?
AutoZone does buy old batteries.
When you buy a new battery, you can send in your old battery to take off the core fee and save money on your purchase.
If you have more than one battery, you can also take them into the store.
AutoZone stores do not pay cash for old batteries, but they will offer gift cards or store credit in exchange for them.
Does AutoZone Recycle Old Batteries?
If you have a lot of batteries around your house, or even if you just have one that you have been wanting to get rid of, you can take it to AutoZone and have it recycled.
Many areas do not allow batteries to be thrown in the trash or have strict regulations about how you can dispose of them.
Not only will AutoZone accept the batteries and recycle them for you, but they will offer store credit or gift cards for them.
What Other Installation Services Does AutoZone Provide?
AutoZone doesn’t just sell a huge selection of auto parts, but they also offer many free services that allow you to keep your car running while avoiding expensive mechanics and auto repair shops.
In addition to offering free battery charging, testing, and installation services, AutoZone also offers many other free services.
Alternator Testing
The alternator’s primary job is to keep the battery charged while your car is running, but it will also help power the electrical aspects of a vehicle.
It works with the battery to spread this power to various parts of the car.
If your alternator is bad, it may seem like your battery is dead.
The car may not turn over, your lights, radio, and power locks may not work.
AutoZone provides alternator testing that will help you figure out if the alternator is the reason for your trouble or if something else is to blame.
Starter Testing
Starters convert electrical energy into mechanical energy and get the engine moving.
If your starter goes out, your car may not start or may struggle to start.
Many things can cause similar issues to a faulty starter, but AutoZone will test your starter to find out if it’s the cause.
Voltage Regulator Testing
The voltage regulator helps start the engine and power the alternator.
If there is a problem with it, then the car may not start or may not stay running.
A problem with the voltage regulator can look the same as a problem with the alternator or a dead battery.
AutoZone can test the voltage regulator to see if it is working or not.
Oil Recycling
When you change your oil, you will find that you have a lot of old oil that needs to be disposed of.
Many cities do not allow you to dispose of your oil in just any way.
It can be difficult to find a way to do so properly.
AutoZone accepts oil and will recycle it, so you don’t have to worry about it.
Loaner Tools
If you do work on your own vehicle but don’t have the tools you need to get the job done, you can borrow many of them from your local AutoZone.
In most cases, there is no fee, and you only have to provide a refundable deposit.
About Ellisha Rader Mannering
Ellisha has been a freelance writer for over 15 years. When she isn’t writing she enjoys traveling with her husband and two sons, hiking, fishing, kayaking, and coaching baton twirling.
Does AutoZone Install Batteries? Installation Policy Explained
AutoZone offers free battery installation for most batteries purchased at AutoZone. However, it may be unable to install your battery if the battery’s location in your vehicle is difficult to access.
Does AutoZone Install Batteries?
AutoZone offers battery installation when you purchase a new car battery from AutoZone, and installation services are free with the purchase of your new battery. [1]
However, AutoZone may not install the battery under certain conditions.
Exclusions
If the installation requires the associate to remove other components from the car, you may need to have the battery installed elsewhere.
Additionally, AutoZone may not install the battery if it is located in an unusual spot, such as in the wheel well or under a seat. [1]
AutoZone also will not install a car battery purchased from a different retailer, such as O’Reilly Auto Parts or Walmart. [1]
Other Battery Services
Store services vary by location, so you may want to contact your nearest AutoZone before visiting.
If there’s a problem with your new car battery, AutoZone allows you to return it within 90 days.
Other Places That Install Batteries
If there is no AutoZone in your area, there are other nationwide auto parts chains that have battery installation services, including Advance Auto Parts, NAPA, and O’Reilly Auto Parts (as previously reported).
You can also check out our related article to find the tire retailers that offer this service.
What to Know About the AutoZone Warranty
Almost every new vehicle part you purchase from AutoZone is covered by an AutoZone warranty. Just as official manufacturer parts are guaranteed to be free of defects, so too are the batteries and aftermarket parts sold by AutoZone.
Don’t pay for a new part when you can get a replacement for free. This article reviews key information you need to know about the AutoZone warranty, such as how it works and how long it lasts.
We’ll also recommend several top-rated extended car warranties to keep more of your vehicle protected. If you like the idea of having your car’s parts covered in the case of an unexpected breakdown, coverage from one of the best extended car warranty companies can protect the majority of vehicle parts, not just the ones you purchase at AutoZone.
What Is the AutoZone Warranty?
AutoZone provides warranty protection for most vehicle parts and batteries that it sells. The AutoZone warranty is a guarantee that these components are free from defects and are built to last for a certain amount of time. Parts that fail or malfunction during the warranty period can be replaced or refunded at any AutoZone location or fulfillment center.
How Does the AutoZone Warranty Work?
If a part that you purchase at AutoZone fails within the AutoZone warranty period, return the failed component to any AutoZone store and bring your receipt. You may also be asked to provide a valid, government-issued ID. The store will replace the part at no additional cost or give you a refund.
Like any automotive coverage plan, the AutoZone warranty only covers parts that fail after normal use. It does not cover damage due to abuse, misuse, improper installation, off-road use or caused by another failed part. The length of the AutoZone warranty varies by part.
Do You Need a Receipt to Return a Part at AutoZone?
If you have lost your receipt, you can still return your AutoZone part by calling AutoZone Customer Support at 800-288-6966 and requesting the relevant transaction information.
How Long Is the AutoZone Warranty?
AutoZone warranty lengths vary by part and will be outlined on your receipt or can be found on AutoZone’s website by searching your part number. Some parts, like starters, alternators and water pumps, come with a limited lifetime warranty. All AutoZone parts and batteries warranties expire if you sell or transfer your vehicle.
AutoZone Warranty Length: Batteries
Automotive batteries are covered under the AutoZone warranty anywhere from 90 days to four years, depending on the battery brand. Non-automotive batteries are covered between 30 days and two years, depending on the brand.
| Automotive | Econocraft | 90 days |
| Automotive | Valucraft | 1 year |
| Automotive | Duralast | 2 years |
| Automotive | Optima Yellow/Red Top | 2 to 3 years |
| Automotive | Duralast Gold | 3 years |
| Automotive | Platinum | 3 years |
| Automotive | Odyssey | 3 to 4 years |
| Non-Automotive | Valucraft LG Utility | 30 days |
| Non-Automotive | Duralast LG Utility | 90 days |
| Non-Automotive | Duralast Gold LG Utility | 90 days |
| Non-Automotive | Econocraft | 90 days |
| Non-Automotive | Valucraft | 1 year |
| Non-Automotive | Duralast Heavy Duty | 1 year |
| Non-Automotive | Non-Branded Heavy Duty | 1 year |
| Non-Automotive | Optima Blue Top | 2 years |
How to Cover Parts With an Extended Car Warranty
The AutoZone warranty will cover parts you purchase from AutoZone, but it doesn’t extend to the parts already in your vehicle. That means the part will have to have broken down once before it’s covered. Additionally, the AutoZone warranty only covers parts – not the labor to replace the part in your vehicle. If you want more coverage, an extended auto warranty may be a good idea.
All new vehicles come with a warranty, but these typically expire after three years. To continue your warranty protection, you can buy an extended vehicle service contract to pay for the cost of unexpected repairs or breakdowns. Check out two of our top recommended providers, Endurance and CARCHEX, below.
Endurance: Best Provider
Endurance offers several levels of car warranty protection that range from powertrain coverage – which protects parts that make the car move, like the engine, transmission and drive axles – to exclusionary coverage for protection of most all vehicle components, with some exceptions.
To give you an idea of how much an Endurance contract might cost, the chart below describes quotes we received from Endurance for an exclusionary contract for a 2018 Toyota RAV4 with 30,000 miles on the odometer.
| Term Length | 5 years/100,000 miles |
| Monthly Cost | 77.35 for 36 months |
| Down Payment | 166.55 |
| Total Cost | 2,951.15 |
| Deductible | 100.00 |
For more information, read our full Endurance warranty review. You can also click below to receive a free quote from the provider to see how much a plan would cost for your vehicle.
CARCHEX: Best for High-Mileage Cars
Like Endurance, CARCHEX offers warranty contracts ranging from basic powertrain to exclusionary bumper-to-bumper protection. See the quote CARCHEX offered for exclusionary coverage on a 2018 Toyota RAV4 with 30,000 miles below.
| Term Length | 7 years/125,000 miles |
| Monthly Cost | 190.00 for 18 months |
| Down Payment | 342.00 |
| Total Cost | 3,762.00 |
| Deductible | 100.00 |
To learn more, read our complete CARCHEX review. You can also click below to get a free quote from CARCHEX.
Featured Extended Warranty Companies
We reviewed the best extended auto warranty providers, and here are our top picks.