Yes, you can typically return a car battery to Walmart, but the policy depends heavily on the reason for the return and how long you've had it. For a straightforward return within the 90-day standard window with your receipt, the process is generally simple. If you're returning it under the battery's free replacement period warranty, the process is different and often handled through the store's Auto Care Center.
The key factor is the return reason. If you simply bought the wrong size or changed your mind, you have 90 days with a receipt for a refund or exchange. However, if the battery is defective or fails within its warranty period, you're dealing with a warranty claim. Most Walmart batteries come with a prorated warranty that can last several years. For a warranty claim, you'll need to go to the Auto Care Center, where they will test the battery. If it fails the test, they will honor the warranty terms, which usually means a free replacement during the initial period (e.g., 3 years) and a discounted prorated replacement after that.
Always bring your receipt and the original payment method if possible. The battery should be returned in the condition you bought it, which generally means with all the acid still inside—do not attempt to empty it. Without a receipt, you may be offered store credit at the current, potentially lower, price.
| Warranty Type | Free Replacement Period | Prorated Period (Credit towards new battery) | Core Charge (Refundable upon return of old battery) |
|---|
| Value/Standard | 1 Year | 2 Years | $22 |
| EverStart Plus | 3 Years | 2 Years | $22 |
| EverStart Maxx | 3 Years | 3 Years | $22 |
| EverStart Platinum | 4 Years | 3 Years | $22 |
The core charge is a refundable fee you pay at purchase to encourage recycling. You must return your old, used battery to get this fee back, even if you're returning a new one.
