Yes, Walmart does take old car batteries. Most Walmart stores with an Auto Care Center will accept your used lead-acid car battery for recycling, typically when you are purchasing a new one. There is often a core charge refund involved, which acts as a recycling incentive.
When you buy a new battery at Walmart, you pay a core charge (usually around $15-$22) on top of the battery's price. This fee is refunded to you when you return your old battery, effectively making recycling free and rewarding. Even if you didn't buy the new battery from Walmart, many locations will still accept your old battery for recycling, though they may charge a small disposal fee (generally around $10-$15) since you aren't offsetting the cost with a new purchase.
The process is straightforward. Simply bring your old battery to the Automotive Department or the Auto Care Center. The associates will handle it from there. It's a convenient and responsible way to dispose of a hazardous material, as lead and battery acid can contaminate soil and water if sent to a landfill. Walmart partners with certified recyclers to ensure the lead and plastic are properly recovered and reused.
| State | Typical Core Charge (Refundable with Old Battery Return) | Potential Disposal Fee (If Not Buying New Battery) |
|---|
| California | $22.00 | $12.00 |
| Texas | $20.00 | $15.00 |
| Florida | $18.00 | $10.00 |
| New York | $21.00 | $13.00 |
| Illinois | $19.00 | $11.00 |
It's always a good idea to call your local Walmart's Auto Care Center ahead of time to confirm their specific policy, as fees and acceptance can vary by location.
