Many people walk into Costco’s Tire & Battery Center thinking they’ll just buy a battery and have it installed right there. But the reality is a little different.
Costco sells Interstate car batteries at many locations with Tire & Battery Centers, but they do not offer installation services. You can buy a battery there, but installation must be done yourself or by a mechanic.
Here’s everything you need to know — what Costco does, what it doesn’t, and how to deal with battery installation after you buy one from them.
Costco’s Battery Services: What They Actually Do
- Costco sells car batteries, mostly from the Interstate brand.
- Their auto service centers focus mostly on tires, not full auto repair tasks.
- They do not install car batteries when you buy them from the store.
- People who buy a battery there either need to:
- Install it themselves.
- Hire a mechanic or take it to an auto shop for installation.
- The core charge — a deposit you pay when buying the battery — is refundable when you return your old battery.
Why Doesn’t Costco Install Batteries?
Here are the main reasons:
- Business Model: Costco keeps its costs low by not offering a lot of labor‑intensive services.
- Liability Risk: Installing a car battery incorrectly can damage the vehicle’s electrical system. Costco avoids that risk.
- Lack of Technicians & Tools: They don’t have the kind of garage-style setup or trained battery-install techs for this work.
- Efficiency: Battery installation takes time. Adding it to Costco’s services would slow things down and increase cost.
What Kind of Batteries Does Costco Sell?
- Brand: Interstate Batteries.
- Types:
- AGM (Absorbed Glass Mat) — good for newer cars, stop-start systems, or high electrical demand.
- Standard Lead-Acid — more affordable, fits many regular vehicles.
- Price Range: Varies depending on type and size.
- Core Deposit: You pay a small core fee when you buy; this is refunded if you bring back the old battery.
Understanding Costco’s Battery Warranty
- Costco batteries come with a limited warranty via Interstate.
- The current warranty is 36 months, but it’s pro-rated: the refund or replacement value goes down as more time passes.
- What’s not covered:
- Labor (Costco or Interstate won’t pay for installation)
- Damage from misuse, improper installation, or abuse.
- To claim warranty: you usually need your receipt. But some users say you can pull up the purchase via your Costco membership.
Where to Get Your Costco Battery Installed
Since Costco doesn’t do the install, here are good places to go:
- Auto Parts Stores: Big chains like AutoZone or Advance Auto Parts can install a battery for a fee.
- Mechanic / Repair Shops: Local mechanics often charge $20–$50 for battery installation, depending on how hard it is to reach.
- Mobile Mechanics: If you don’t want to drive, some mobile services come to you and install the battery on the spot.
- DIY: Many people just install the battery themselves. It’s fairly simple if you follow the right steps (and safety tips).
How to Install a Car Battery Yourself (Easy Steps)
If you decide to do it yourself, here’s a basic walk-through:
- Get the Right Tools
- Wrench / socket set
- Wire brush or terminal cleaner
- Gloves and safety glasses
- Safety First
- Turn off the engine, make sure all lights are off.
- Remove jewelry (rings, watches) — batteries can spark.
- Work in a well-ventilated space.
- Remove the Old Battery
- Disconnect the negative (–) terminal first.
- Then disconnect the positive (+) terminal.
- Remove any hold-down bracket or clamp.
- Clean the Battery Tray / Terminals
- Use wire brush to clean corrosion.
- Wipe away dirt or debris.
- Install the New Battery
- Place the battery in the tray safely.
- Secure the hold-down clamp or bracket.
- Attach the positive (+) terminal first, then negative (–).
- Make sure the connections are tight but don’t overtighten.
- Test
- Turn on your car and check electrical systems (lights, radio).
- If everything works, good job!
- Recycle the Old Battery
- Take it back to Costco (or any battery recycler) and get your core deposit.
Pros and Cons of Buying a Battery from Costco
Pros:
- Good quality battery (Interstate brand)
- Competitive price for members
- Simple return process / core deposit refund
- Strong warranty (36 months) for many models
Cons:
- No installation — extra cost or effort required
- Warranty is now prorated (not full refund after a few years)
- Not all Costco locations may have all battery sizes in stock
- Installing yourself may be difficult for some car models (tight spaces, hidden batteries)
Does Costco install car batteries for free?
No, Costco does not install car batteries, free or paid. They only sell Interstate batteries at their Tire & Battery Centers. If you need installation, you must do it yourself or go to a mechanic or auto shop.
How often does Costco install car batteries?
Costco does not install car batteries at all. Even though many locations have Tire & Battery Centers, their service is limited to selling and returning batteries. Installation is not offered at any Costco location.
Costco Car Battery
Costco sells high-quality Interstate car batteries at many locations. You can choose from standard or AGM batteries depending on your car. They also offer a limited warranty and a core refund when you return your old battery.
Does Costco Install Car Batteries 2021
Even in 2021, Costco did not install car batteries. Their Tire & Battery Centers only sell batteries. Installation has always been the customer’s responsibility, either by doing it yourself or taking the battery to a mechanic or auto shop.
Costco Car Battery Price List
Costco car batteries usually cost around $77 for an Interstate battery, though prices may vary by type and size. Prices are often competitive compared to other stores, and membership benefits may help you save more.
Does Costco Install Batteries
No, Costco does not install car batteries. They only sell Interstate batteries at Tire & Battery Centers. If you need a battery installed, you have to do it yourself or hire a mechanic to do it for you.
Does Autozone Install Car Batteries
Yes, AutoZone installs car batteries for free in most locations. When you buy a battery there, they can remove the old one and install the new battery, making it easy and convenient for car owners.
FAQs
Does Costco install car batteries for me?
No, Costco sells batteries but does not install them. You must install it yourself or hire a mechanic.
Who will put a battery in my car for free?
Some stores like AutoZone or Advance Auto Parts often install batteries for free when you buy a new one from them.
Will AutoZone install a battery?
Yes, AutoZone usually installs your new car battery for free, including removing your old battery safely.
Is Costco or Walmart better for car batteries?
Costco offers good prices and quality batteries, but Walmart may offer installation and more battery options.
How much should battery installation cost?
Battery installation typically costs $20–$50 at a mechanic, depending on car type and difficulty of installation.
What’s the life expectancy of a Costco car battery?
Costco car batteries usually last 3–5 years depending on usage, climate, and maintenance.
What is the average lifespan of a car battery?
Most car batteries last about 3–5 years. Proper care and regular checks can help extend battery life.
Final Verdict: Should You Buy Your Car Battery from Costco?
If you’re okay with installing the battery yourself or don’t mind paying a small mechanic fee, Costco can be a very smart buy. You get a strong Interstate battery at a good price, plus a warranty that covers a long time.
However, if you want a car‑one‑stop solution — buy + install in the same place — Costco might not be your best bet. In that case, places like AutoZone or other auto parts stores may be more convenient, since they often include installation.
Also, think about how risk-tolerant you are: installing a battery isn’t super hard, but working with car electronics can feel tricky if you’ve never done it. And make sure you keep your receipt — or know how to pull up your purchase via your membership — so you can use the warranty if needed.