Auto Parts StoreAuto Parts & AccessoriesAuto Accessories StoreAdvance Auto Parts
Your local Advance Auto Parts at 5144 Nicholson Ln in Kensington offers automotive aftermarket products, free store services and same day options at most locations.
Our leading brands include FRAM fluids and oil filters, Carquest parts and DieHard® batteries. At most locations we offer free battery testing, free battery and wiper installations with purchase, free engine code scanning, free starter and alternator testing and free battery and oil recycling. Save by signing up for Speed Perks, the loyalty program that earns points toward discounts on store items and gas at participating Shell stations.
Call your local store or shop online today!
Many customers praised the helpfulness and professionalism of staff members like Luis, Nathan, and Victor, while others reported poor service and rudeness from certain employees.
Timeliness
Several reviews highlighted the willingness of staff to assist customers even after closing hours, while others noted long wait times and delays in service.
Product Knowledge
Customers appreciated the staff's ability to help find the right parts and provide installation assistance, though some reported instances of incorrect advice.
Mixed Experiences
Overall, customer experiences varied widely, with some expressing satisfaction and loyalty, while others reported frustration and vowed not to return.
SS
Sam
Dec 13, 2025
5.0
I came here because my headlights were out. I arrived at their time of closing. I told them that I had a long cross state drive ahead of me and to please help me even though they were closed. They understood my situation. The manager and associate helped me. They installed my headlight.
On a related note, after they helped install my high beam headlight, we found out that it was actually my low beam headlight that was out. It was my mistake because I told them that. They still helped me uninstall my high beam headlight and install my low beam headlight even though they were closed.
I didn’t catch the name of the manager and the associate. The manager was very professional. She installed the high beam headlights for me. The associate was very professional as well. He exchange the low beam and high beam for me. They were both very courteous and resolved my issue, even though they were closed.
Thank you so much!!!
DD
Danny Dubbaneh
Dec 11, 2025
5.0
Luis was extremely professional, friendly, and most important of all helpful. Turned a difficult situation into a positive experience. Great customer service from the moment he picked up the phone to helping me complete the transaction. This store is lucky to have someone like him
NA
Nour Ashraf
Dec 5, 2025
5.0
Luis is an outstanding salesman professional and super helpful i am glade i stopped here today
ZK
Zeinab Konate
Nov 20, 2025
5.0
I want to give a major shoutout to Luis who helped me today with my battery replacement. From the moment I called this morning, who showing nothing but top tier customer service and was even more amazing once I came into the store for the battery replacement. He is so kind, warm, and knowledgeable!
NB
Nicholas B
Nov 18, 2025
5.0
Had a coil pack fall while heading back home to central VA from DC. It was ten minutes before closing and GPS said I was 8 minutes away. I called ahead and they said they had them in stock but they close in ten minutes. I explained the situation and that I was heading to them. When I got there the door was locked but they were looking for me. They had the part already pulled and held off on shutting the systems down for the day just for me. I was able to quickly switch the pack out. Thank you guys so much. We (myself, my fiance and a herd of twenty sheep and goats) would have been stranded there in the parking lot until the next morning with nowhere to go or stay.
Frequently Asked Questions About Advance Auto Parts
Can Advance Auto Parts install/replace my car battery?
Yes, we will install your battery for free with purchase. Exclusions may apply*
Can Advance Auto Parts recycle used oil?
Yes, we will recycle your used motor oil. Exclusions may apply*
Can a Team Member check or charge my battery?
We can test the health of your battery but cannot charge it. We also sell replacement batteries and can install your new one for free. Exclusions may apply*
Will you buyback/purchase my used battery?
We do not buyback used batteries; however, you can bring it to our store, and we will recycle it for free. Exclusions may apply*
What discounts do you offer?
We are proud to offer a 10% military discount for active duty and veteran service members.
If I buy windshield wipers, can you install them?
Yes, we will install your windshield wipers for free with purchase. Exclusions may apply*
My check engine light is on; can a Team Member check that for me?
Yes, one of our Team Members will scan the engine codes for you. Exclusions may apply*
Can I return items to a different Advance Auto Parts store?
Yes, all you need is the item and the receipt.
Can Advance Auto Parts recharge my AC?
We cannot recharge your AC, but we do sell the recharging kits.
Can you make a copy of my car key or Fob?
We do not make copies of car keys or Fobs
Do you install brakes or alternators?
We do not install those kinds of parts; however, we do sell replacement parts in store or online.
Can you install headlight or taillight bulbs?
We do not install light bulbs, but we do sell replacement bulbs.
Can you repair my vehicle?
We do not do any repair or body work to vehicles.
Does Advance Auto test and install batteries?
Yes we do offer free battery installation on most products with purchase. We will also recycle and test your battery for free regardless if you bought it from us. Battery testing and installation is available at most of our locations.
How long do car batteries last?
Typically a car battery will last 2-5 years, with premium batteries lasting 5-6 years. But you should replace it every 4 years for safe measures if you want to avoid any unwanted problems.
What are the signs of a bad car battery?
Signs of a bad car battery can range from the need for frequent jump starts, slow to start, cranks or clicks but won't start, dash lights work but the vehicle won't start, etc.
How much does a car battery cost?
A traditional lead/acid car battery can range between $60-$120. The difference in cost comes from a variety of things, like the size of the vehicle or any special requirements needed from the battery, i.e. an increased resistant to cold or hot climates. The type of battery also has an affect on the price whether it be a lead/acid, calcium, lithium-ion, deep-cycle.
HOW DO BRAKES WORK?
Expand FAQ item
Brakes work by using friction to turn kinetic energy into heat. There are two designs: drum brakes (older), and disc brakes (newer). Both use hydraulic pressure to move a piston outward. In disc brakes, the piston is located inside a caliper that houses brake pads and fits over the rotor. The friction lining on the pads makes contact with the rotor to slow the vehicle. In drum brakes, the piston moves two curved shoes lined with friction material against the inside of the brake drum.
What services does Advance Auto Parts at 5144 Nicholson Ln offer?
The store offers free battery installation, battery testing, engine code scanning, wiper blade installation, and battery and oil recycling. Exclusions may apply.
Can Advance Auto Parts install a new car battery for me?
Yes, Advance Auto Parts will install your new battery for free with purchase. Exclusions may apply.
Does Advance Auto Parts recycle used motor oil and batteries?
Yes, the store recycles used motor oil and batteries for free. Exclusions may apply.
Can I get my check engine light scanned at Advance Auto Parts?
Yes, Team Members will scan engine codes for you free of charge. Exclusions may apply.
Is there a military discount available at Advance Auto Parts?
Yes, a 10% military discount is offered to active duty and veteran service members.
What are the store hours for Advance Auto Parts in Kensington, MD?
Open Monday to Saturday from 7:30 AM to 9:00 PM and Sunday from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
What payment methods are accepted at this Advance Auto Parts store?
They accept American Express, Cash, Check, Discover, Mastercard, and Visa.
Is curbside pickup available at this location?
Yes, curbside pickup is offered at this Advance Auto Parts store.
What nearby stores can I visit after shopping at Advance Auto Parts?
Nearby stores include HomeGoods for home goods and furniture, PetSmart for pet supplies and services, and ALDI USA for groceries and liquor.
Are there any food options close to Advance Auto Parts at 5144 Nicholson Ln?
Yes, nearby food options include Subway, The Big Greek Cafe for Mediterranean cuisine, and Vie de France Bakery Cafe.