Does Costco Install Car Batteries? (2023 Updated)

Costco warehouse shopping is all about buying in bulk to save you time and money.

These stores offer around 4,000 carefully selected products at any given time and focus on customer satisfaction and value. Members typically head to Costco for all their grocery and pharmaceutical needs, plus great savings on some selected auto parts. But what about a new car battery? 

If you need a new battery for your car, you might be asking yourself, ‘If I buy a battery from there, does Costco install car batteries? Let’s find out…

Does Costco Sell Car Batteries?

Yes, Costco sells a range of Interstate Brand car batteries. These are for automotive, power sports, and marine use, so they are not only for cars and RVs. If you need a new battery for your motorbike or boat, or even lawn mower, the team at Costco will be sure to have what you need. Costco can provide you with either a Standard Flood Battery or one with an Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM Battery).

Read more: Who Makes EverStart Batteries?

What’s The Difference Between The Two? 

The main difference between the two batteries is that a standard battery can provide the power to start any vehicle, especially older and smaller cars. An AGM is far more powerful than the standard battery and is better for the more modern and power-hungry vehicle. 

You’ll be able to ask for assistance in getting the correct battery when you visit the Costco Tire Center to get your replacement. Usually, if you already have an AGM, then you’ll need another of those. 

The Costco crew are there to help!

However, if you have a standard battery and you feel like your car just isn’t running as well as it should, then it may be time to upgrade to the newer technology battery. But again, it’s always best to ask one of the many professionals at your local Costco store who will be able to advise you on this and anything else.

Will Costco Install The Battery I’ve Just Purchased?

Unfortunately no, Costco is unable to install your newly bought battery. Even though Costco can provide you with a new battery and even safely recycle and dispose of your old one. As of July 2023, they do not help with the installation. 

They also have a ‘core charge’ in place for purchases on all batteries; I’ll touch on what that is a little later. It’s a fairly easy thing to install a car battery, and most people can do this on their own. Either with the help of the user manual for their car or even just watch a ‘how to’ video on Youtube for their specific car.

Replacing tires is no problem!

Costco can and will replace tires via their tire center, and even help with the refueling of your car, but that’s it as far as it goes for auto services. Costco doesn’t actually have a mechanic shop within their company. So if you need a check-up, or to fix or install a new part, you’ll need to find a reputable mechanic or workshop that does.

Where Can I Get The Battery Installed?

Unfortunately, Costco customers cannot get their battery fitted in-store with the purchase of a new one. However, there are a number of automotive shops that can sell you and/or replace car batteries at the same time.

Some other retailers that you can consider are:

Does Costco Install Car Batteries? – Is There A Warranty On The Battery?

Yes, Costco does offer a warranty on all Interstate batteries they sell. The standard warranty is 36 months; however, some specific rules need to be adhered to for it to be valid. The warranty terms for each battery are available online at Costco Website, and you’ll also be informed upon the receipt of your purchase.

What Is A Core Charge?

I briefly touched on a core charger earlier. Don’t know what it is? Neither did I until I did a little research. A core charge is a fee you pay when purchasing a new part for your car, like a form of deposit. When you return this part, then you’ll get your core charge back. 

So basically, it is a fee that is in place, so you are more likely to return and recycle your old part. This is because the manufacturers want this old and unworking piece back, even though you probably think it’s junk. A core charge on a battery ranges from $10 – $25, depending on the size and strength you buy.

They want you to recycle!

When you purchase a new battery, the price will have a core charge on top of the item price. However, if you purchase and install your new battery at the same time, then the fee will cancel itself out with the exchange of the old for the new battery. It’s basically a monetary incentive to recycle old parts.

More On Shopping At Costco!

Heading to your favorite Costco store? Then, you might want to know what the Costco Executive Membership Hours are, or if you’re planning a holiday, Does Costco Take Passport Photos, and once you’ve got your shopping, check out Does Costco Take Apple Pay, as well as Does Costco Take EBT, in case you forgot your wallet at home!

In addition, if you need new glasses, take a look at Does Costco Take VSP and Eyemed, or perhaps Does Costco Sell plan B, and if you’re not happy with a product, check out the Cost Return Policy Without Receipt and Costco Mattress Return Policy for 2023.

To make sure your car runs smoothly, the best fuel is needed. So, you’re probably wondering, Is Costco Gas Good, and before you head out, maybe check up on What Times Does Costco Gas Open Close, so you can plan your day.

Does Costco Install Car Batteries? – Final Thoughts

Costco has 833 warehouses located all over the United States. And even though you can purchase top-quality Interstate batteries from Costco at great prices, they currently do not offer a service to install them. You can choose to install the car battery yourself if you know how, use your car manual, or watch a Youtube video.

Alternatively, you could take it to another reputable auto company that can do the installation for you. Either way, you will be saving yourself some dollars as Costco offers their members great prices on everything they sell.

So, let’s hit the road but remember to drive safely!