O’Reilly Auto Parts Return Policy and Warranties Explained

O’Reilly Auto Parts is a well-known retailer in the automotive industry, offering a wide range of car parts and accessories. Customers often want to know if shopping there is reliable and what to expect if they need to return a product. This review will cover both the quality of their service and their return policy.

O’Reilly Auto Parts allows customers to return most items within 60 to 90 days, as long as the products are unused and in their original packaging. Returns can be made in-store or by shipping with a provided label, giving shoppers flexibility. They also offer warranties on many products, which helps protect buyers if something is defective.

Understanding the return policy is important for anyone who shops at O’Reilly Auto Parts. This blog post will break down the key points so readers can feel confident about their purchases and know how to handle returns smoothly when needed.

O’Reilly Auto Parts Return Policy Overview

oreilly auto parts returns

O’Reilly Auto Parts has a clear return process designed to ensure customer satisfaction. It includes specific instructions about which items can be returned and the types of returns accepted. Customers should follow the return guidelines closely to avoid issues.

Return Guidelines

Returns can be made either in-store or by shipping the item back using a label provided by O’Reilly Auto Parts. Items returned as new must be unopened and in their original packaging. The return must include all original materials that came with the product.

Customers should bring the original sales receipt when returning an item. Returns are generally accepted within 90 days of purchase. It is important to follow these rules to ensure a smooth return process and avoid delays.

Eligible for Return

Most new products qualify for return if they are unused and unopened. This means no installation or signs of wear can be present. Some parts, especially those sold as cores, require returning the old part to get the refund of the core value.

Items under warranty can also be returned if they are defective. The warranty return requires the original sales receipt, and such returns may result in a replacement, repair, or refund, depending on the case.

Types of Returns

There are three main return types: new returns, core returns, and warranty returns.

  • New returns are for products that remain sealed and unused.
  • Core returns involve returning old parts to recover the refundable core charge.
  • Warranty returns apply to items that fail due to defects and are covered under O’Reilly’s warranty policy.

Each type follows specific rules and helps maintain customer satisfaction by offering options suitable to the situation.

How to Return Items to O’Reilly Auto Parts

Returning items to O’Reilly Auto Parts requires following specific steps depending on where the purchase was made. Both in-store and online purchases have clear processes to make returning items straightforward. Customers should keep their original receipt and ensure the item is in good condition.

In-Store Returns

For items bought in a physical O’Reilly store, customers must bring the item along with the original sales receipt back to any O’Reilly Auto Parts location. The item should be unused, in its original packaging, and free from damage.

The store team will inspect the product and verify the receipt. If the item is eligible for return, the customer may receive a refund, exchange, or store credit. Returns on custom-made parts or C.O.D. deliveries are not accepted.

Online Order Returns

When returning items bought online, a Return Material Authorization (RMA) is required before shipping the product back. Customers can request an RMA by logging into their account on OReillyAuto.com or by calling customer support at 1-888-327-7153 if they checked out as a guest.

The item must be in new condition with the original packing and receipt included. Once authorized, the customer ships the product to the address provided. Refunds or replacements are processed after O’Reilly receives and inspects the returned item.

Local Store Return

Returning items to a local O’Reilly store that are not originally purchased there is generally not allowed. The store will not accept returns for parts shipped incorrectly from OReillyAuto.com or custom-made orders.

Customers should check the specific instructions before attempting a local store return. If the product was ordered online but needs an exchange or repair under warranty, it may be returned at any store, provided the original receipt is presented.

See more on our full O’Reilly Auto Parts review.

Required Documentation for Returns

oreilly auto parts warranty

To complete a return at O’Reilly Auto Parts, customers must provide certain documents that prove the original purchase. These documents confirm the item was bought at O’Reilly and help process refunds or exchanges efficiently. Proper documentation ensures the return meets company policies.

Original Purchase Receipt

The original purchase receipt is the most important document for a return. This receipt shows the exact date, time, store location, and items purchased. It proves the product was bought from O’Reilly Auto Parts.

Without the original sales receipt, returns may be limited or denied. Customers should keep this receipt safe after purchase. Many items, especially those needing refunds or exchanges, require this proof to avoid delays.

A printed or digital receipt is acceptable. In store returns, the cashier will ask for this document to match the product to the purchase.

Proof of Purchase

If the original purchase receipt is lost, O’Reilly Auto Parts may accept other forms of proof of purchase. This could include a credit or debit card statement showing the transaction or an email confirmation for online orders.

Proof of purchase still needs to clearly tie the item to the customer and O’Reilly. It should include key details: date, amount, and store or website. This helps confirm the return’s validity.

Using proof of purchase instead of the original receipt can limit some return options, such as cash refunds. Customers may receive store credit instead.

Packing Slip

For returns involving online orders, the packing slip included with the shipment is often required. This slip lists the items sent and confirms the package matches the original order.

Including the packing slip with the return helps O’Reilly quickly verify the product and condition. It should be complete and unaltered.

A packing slip usually contains order number, shipping date, and item descriptions. Returning the item without this document may cause delays or refusal of the refund request.

Return Conditions and Exceptions

O’Reilly Auto Parts sets clear rules on what items can be returned and under what conditions. Certain products must be unopened and unused, while defective items follow separate warranty rules. Some products, like clearance or customized parts, have specific restrictions or no return options.

Unopened and Uninstalled Items

Items eligible for return must be new and uninstalled to qualify for a full refund. They need to be in their original packaging, unopened, with all the original materials included. This ensures the product is in resaleable condition.

Customers have up to 60 or 90 days, depending on the item, to return these products. The store will not accept returns if the items show signs of use, damage, or missing parts. Shipping costs for returns usually fall on the customer, especially for online orders.

The return must be made at a local store or through the online process when allowed, following the company’s instructions.

Defective Items and Warranty

Defective or faulty parts are covered by O’Reilly’s warranty policy. Customers should refer to the warranty guidelines to check coverage details.

If the product is found defective, it may be returned or exchanged under warranty terms.

Customers returning defective items typically need to provide proof of purchase. The company often requires that the part be unused except for installation testing.

Warranty returns may differ from regular returns; some may offer repair or replacement instead of cash refunds.

Clearance and Customized Products

Clearance items and custom-made products are generally not eligible for returns. Clearance parts are sold “as-is” to clear out stock and usually do not qualify for refunds or exchanges.

Customized parts, tailored to specific needs or vehicles, are excluded because they cannot be resold.

Customers should always verify return eligibility before purchasing items marked as clearance or custom, to avoid any issues.

This policy helps O’Reilly manage special inventory and reduce losses from non-resalable goods.

Core Returns and Core Charges

OReillys auto parts return policies

O’Reilly Auto Parts charges a core fee on certain parts, which acts like a deposit. This fee is refunded once the customer returns the old, used part, called a core. Returning the core correctly ensures the refund and helps recycle or rebuild used parts.

Understanding Core Returns

A core is an old part that the customer exchanges when buying a new or remanufactured item. Examples include alternators, starters, and brake calipers. The core charge is added during purchase but is refundable after the used part is returned.

This system encourages customers to bring back their old parts, which O’Reilly refurbishes or recycles. It helps keep costs down and supports environmental efforts.

Core Return Process

To get the core refund, the customer must return the old part to any O’Reilly Auto Parts store or ship it back if the part was bought online. A receipt or proof of purchase is usually required to confirm the core charge.

The returned core should be in acceptable condition, meaning it’s the same type of part and not damaged beyond normal wear. Once the store verifies the core, the core charge is refunded promptly, either in cash or store credit.

Core Return Eligibility

Only certain parts have a core charge, usually remanufactured or rebuilt parts. The old part must be the correct core type related to the purchase. Damage, missing core parts, or incorrect cores will usually disqualify the return.

Custom-made parts or non-core items cannot be returned for a core refund. Customers should keep the original packaging and receipt to avoid issues. Checking with the store or customer service can help clarify if a core is eligible before returning.

Refunds, Exchanges, and Store Credit

O’Reilly Auto Parts allows customers to handle returns in several ways, including refunds, exchanges, and store credit options. The process depends on how and where the item was purchased and the condition of the product. Payment methods for refunds also vary based on the original transaction.

Refund or Exchange Process

Customers can return most items within 60 to 90 days of purchase. Products must be unused, in new condition, and in their original packaging to qualify. Items bought in-store must be returned to a physical location.

For online purchases, customers may return items either by mail or in-store. Shipping costs for returns through mail are the responsibility of the customer. Some products, like custom-made parts, cannot be returned.

If the product meets all return conditions, customers can expect a full refund or exchange based on their request. Same-day orders must be returned in-store to be eligible.

Store Credit and Retail Store Credit

When a return doesn’t qualify for a full refund, O’Reilly may offer store credit as an alternative. Store credit allows customers to buy other products at any O’Reilly retail location.

Some returned items may only be eligible for retail store credit if the purchase was out of the refund window or if the item was opened but still resalable. This helps customers still get value for their returns.

Customers should bring proof of purchase to facilitate store credit or retail credit issuance. Store credit generally does not expire but can only be spent in-store.

Payment Methods for Refunds

Refunds from O’Reilly go back to the original payment method. If a purchase was made with a credit or debit card, the refund will be applied to that same card.

For cash payments, refunds are usually given in cash at the store. Instant refunds happen during in-store returns when the return is processed immediately.

O’Reilly does not accept cash-on-delivery (C.O.D.) returns, so customers should not expect cash refunds via mail returns. Store credit is an alternative if payment method refund is not possible.

Shipping, Handling, and Return Costs

O’Reilly Auto Parts charges customers for most shipping and return shipping costs. Handling fees and restocking charges may apply depending on the item and return reason. These costs are important to consider before making a purchase or initiating a return.

Return Shipping Options

Customers are responsible for paying their own return shipping costs unless the return is due to a defect, damage, or a shipping error by O’Reilly. In those cases, the company may cover return shipping after the customer contacts them and gets approval.

Returns can be made by mailing the item back or by returning it to an O’Reilly store if convenient. Returning items in-store avoids return shipping costs but might not be possible for online-only items. Shipping fees paid at purchase are typically not refundable.

Prepaid and Return Shipping Labels

O’Reilly does not usually provide prepaid return shipping labels. Customers must pay for the return shipment out of pocket unless the return is approved due to an error or defect.

When such exceptions happen, O’Reilly may send a prepaid return shipping label. This label covers the cost of sending the product back, which saves the customer money. Without this label, customers must arrange and pay for return shipping themselves.

Handling and Restocking Fees

Handling fees are generally included in shipping and handling charges at the time of purchase. For returns, O’Reilly may charge restocking fees on certain items, especially special orders or parts that require custom handling.

Restocking fees lower the refund amount. This fee applies if the item is returned in good condition but is not defective or damaged. Customers should check item-specific policies before returning to understand any possible fees.

Returns for Special Orders and Electronics

Returns for special orders and electronics at O’Reilly Auto Parts have clear rules. Some items need approval before returning. Electronics and tools often have specific conditions to meet for a return to be accepted.

Special Order Return Guidelines

Special order items usually cannot be returned unless there is a defect or an error in the order. Customers must contact O’Reilly for a Return Material Authorization (RMA) before trying to return these parts.

Without an RMA, special order returns are typically denied. These parts are often custom-made or ordered specifically for the customer, so they cannot be resold easily.

If the special order item is defective or wrong, the customer should notify O’Reilly promptly to start the return process. Documentation and proof of purchase are required.

Returning Tools and Electronics

Tools and electronics must generally be returned in new, unused condition and with original packaging. O’Reilly does not accept cash on delivery (C.O.D.) returns, so shipping costs for returns are the customer’s responsibility.

Before returning, the customer should get an RMA to ensure the return is authorized. Some electronics, like batteries, cannot be returned after installation unless they are defective.

Returns without prior authorization may not be accepted. The customer should keep receipts and check if the item meets warranty or return conditions.

Customer Service and Support

O’Reilly Auto Parts offers reliable customer service with multiple ways to get help. Customers can reach out by phone or online any day of the week. Support covers questions about orders, returns, and other needs, aiming to resolve issues quickly.

Contacting O’Reilly Auto Parts

O’Reilly provides customer service from 7 AM to 8 PM (CT), seven days a week. Customers can call 1-888-327-7153 to speak directly with a customer satisfaction agent for assistance.

There is also an automated customer assistant available anytime. This helps with common questions or directs callers to the right department. For locating stores, hours, services, or language support, customers can use the company’s website tools.

This broad availability ensures customers can get help whether they bought in store or online.

Support for Online and In-Store Returns

O’Reilly Auto Parts accepts most returns within 60 to 90 days of purchase, depending on the product. Items must be in new, unused condition with original packaging for a full refund.

Customers making online order returns are responsible for return shipping costs, except if the product was damaged or sent in error. For these cases, contacting customer service by email or phone is required to arrange the return without extra costs.

Same-day order returns can often be processed directly at the store where the purchase was made. This allows easy exchanges or refunds with proof of purchase and helps speed up the process.

Clear instructions and direct support help make returns straightforward both in store and online.

O’Reilly Auto Parts: Company Reputation and Review

O’Reilly Auto Parts operates thousands of stores across the U.S. Its reputation is mixed, with some customers praising product quality and others pointing to service issues. The company provides automotive parts mostly meeting original equipment standards and handles returns with specific policies.

Customer Satisfaction and Feedback

Customer feedback on O’Reilly Auto Parts varies widely. Some shoppers praise the wide selection of automotive parts and competitive prices. However, there are numerous reports of poor service, such as staff refusing to provide promised free battery installations due to being “too busy.”

Many reviews note problems with staff knowledge or errors like selling wrong parts. Consumer ratings, including third-party sites, often show low averages, sometimes around 1 star out of 5, based largely on service complaints.

Return Experience Overview

O’Reilly has a clear return policy for merchandise, which generally allows returns on most automotive parts with a receipt. Returns are accepted within a set timeframe, typically 90 days, as long as items are in resalable condition.

Customers sometimes report difficulties when returning parts, including refusals if products show signs of installation or use. The company emphasizes the need for proper documentation and original packaging to avoid problems during returns.

OE-Quality Facilities

O’Reilly Auto Parts offers products that meet OE (Original Equipment) standards, meaning they match or are very close to the parts originally installed by vehicle manufacturers. This ensures compatibility and performance in repairs.

Their stores serve as OE-quality facilities by stocking a broad range of parts and accessories. However, some locations vary in staff expertise and service quality, which can affect customer experience despite the standard of products available.