If you own a car, you’ll have to replace the auto parts at some point, which come with an extra hidden cost known as a core charge.
Unfortunately, Auto retailers like AutoZone will add this extra cost to some parts. But what is this core charge, and how exactly does it work? Here’s what I discovered!
What Is AutoZone Core Charge In 2024?
AutoZone core will add a core charge on specific parts that can be recycled or remanufactured for future use. This charge is added to the purchase price to encourage customers to return the parts to AutoZone for proper disposal. Once you return the old part, the core charge is refunded in 2024.
To learn more about AutoZone’s core charge, what it entails and how it works, keep on reading for more useful facts!
What Is a Core Charge & How Does It Work?
A core charge is a fee added on parts such as batteries, alternators, starters, and air conditioning compressors.
Parts that have a core charge will have an extra cost added as a deposit to push customers to bring back old parts for recycling and remanufacturing.
These are parts that can be resold to reduce landfill waste.
When you return the core to AutoZone, you’ll get the exact core charge refund, mostly in cash. This core credit is given to offset some of the prices of the new battery.
How Much Is an AutoZone Core Charge?
Core charges vary depending on the part you buy. For instance, if you purchase batteries, the AutoZone core charge is usually $22.
In addition, these charges vary from state to state; however, they are mandatory for some parts.
AutoZone adds this cost to incentivize customers to bring back the battery for proper disposal and recycling.
When you buy a core, the charge will usually be indicated on the receipt, making it easier to know how much to expect when you return the part.
How Will You Get a Refund of Your Core Charge Back at AutoZone?
This core charge is a deposit that you make when buying auto parts; therefore, it’s refundable.
To get your cash back from the core charge, you need to take your old battery back to AutoZone. If the core charge was $10, you’ll get the same amount back.
However, you need to have a receipt to show that you bought the part at AutoZone to get this money back. You also need to have the old parts.
A refund might be challenging if you have lost a receipt or didn’t buy the parts from AutoZone.
However, the AutoZone staff can trace your transaction in some cases if you don’t have a receipt.
Since every state has different rules on core charges, you need to check with the store you bought.
In addition, if your battery is not from AutoZone, you can call your local store to ask if its policy allows a trade-in with other retailers like AutoZone.
What Is AutoZone’s Core Return Policy?
If you bought a core from AutoZone and need to return it, you need to follow the return policy.
According to AutoZone’s core return policy, you should return the core in its original packaging to your nearest store.
You should also have a receipt, but the customer support staff can trace your transaction if you don’t have one.
In addition, you should carry your credit card to the store so that you can be refunded.
In case you used another form of payment, AutoZone will refund you through the same method.
However, if the core does not pass the inspection, it will be returned to you, and you won’t get a reimbursement.
On the other hand, if you are returning the core buy mail, you should fill in the return form on your invoice, drain all the fluids, if any, and put back the part in its original packaging.
Enclose a copy of the receipt for reimbursement.
If you are shipping it to a fulfillment center, ensure that you use a carrier that offers package tracking to ensure that the package gets to AutoZone safely.
AutoZone will not reimburse you the shipping costs on your core when sending it back to the store.
To learn more, you can also read our posts on AutoZone battery return policy, AutoZone tool rental policy, and does AutoZone buys car parts.
Conclusion
AutoZone core will add a core charge on specific parts that can be recycled or remanufactured for future use. This charge is added to the purchase price to encourage customers to return the parts to AutoZone for proper disposal.
AutoZone adds a core charge on parts such as batteries, starters, and alternators to ensure they are safely disposed of. Once you return the old part, AutoZone will refund you the exact amount you were charged on the core.
