No, AutoZone does not typically give cash back (physical currency) for old batteries, but they offer alternative forms of value for recycling them.
When you bring an old car battery to AutoZone, the compensation you receive depends on the circumstances:
Core Charge Returns
If you are purchasing a new battery, you will often pay a "core charge" or "battery deposit" at the time of purchase. This charge is a refundable deposit to encourage customers to return their old battery for proper recycling. By bringing your old battery back, either at the time of purchase or afterward, AutoZone will return this core charge to you. This is essentially a refund on a deposit you paid, not cash back for the old battery itself.
Gift Cards for Standalone Batteries
If you simply have an old car battery you want to dispose of and are not purchasing a new one, you can still bring it to any AutoZone location. In this scenario, for turning in your old battery, you will typically receive a gift card, often valued at $10. This gift card can then be used for future purchases at AutoZone stores.
How to Exchange Your Old Battery
Bringing in your old battery for recycling is a straightforward process:
- For a Core Charge Refund: If you recently purchased a new battery and paid a core charge, ensure you have your receipt. The receipt will show the core charge paid, which AutoZone will refund upon return of your old battery.
- For a Gift Card: If you are simply getting rid of an old battery, just bring it to the counter at any AutoZone store. The store associate will assist you with the process and issue the gift card.
Why AutoZone Accepts Old Batteries
AutoZone participates in battery recycling programs as part of an effort to promote environmental responsibility and ensure that lead-acid batteries are disposed of properly. Old batteries contain hazardous materials that can be harmful to the environment if not handled correctly. By accepting old batteries, AutoZone helps facilitate their safe and efficient recycling, preventing pollution and recovering valuable materials.
Key Takeaways:
- You will not receive physical cash for old batteries.
- You can get a refund on a core charge if you're replacing a battery.
- You can receive a gift card (typically $10) for turning in an old battery without a new purchase.
