Napa's Loan-A-Tool Service: How Does It Work?

NAPA Auto Parts is an auto parts and service provider with a range of offerings, including tools and accessories for vehicles. While NAPA does offer a selection of tools for purchase, it is unclear whether they offer a loaner tool program. There are mixed responses online, with some customers stating that NAPA does not lend tools, while others suggest that individual NAPA stores may have their own loaner tool programs with varying policies. It is always best to contact your local NAPA store directly to inquire about their specific policies and offerings.

NAPA stores are individually owned and operated, so policies may differ

For example, one customer recounted their positive experience with a NAPA store, where an employee not only sold them a new belt but also took an early break to bring a tool set and help install the belt. In contrast, another customer expressed frustration with a different NAPA store, where they were forced to buy a $7 wrench instead of borrowing one.

It is worth noting that NAPA stores are known to offer a range of automotive parts and accessories, and their tool selection may vary. While some stores may have common hand tools like sockets and wrenches, others may focus more on specialty tools like bearing pullers and ball joint press kits.

When it comes to tool lending policies, some auto parts stores, such as AutoZone and O'Reilly Auto Parts, have established loaner tool programs. These programs typically involve customers placing a deposit, which is refunded upon the return of the tool. However, NAPA stores, due to their independent ownership, may not have the same consistency in policies, and customers are advised to contact their local NAPA store to inquire about tool lending options.

NAPA stores may offer loaner tools, but this is not guaranteed

One customer reported that a NAPA employee took their break early to drive them back to their car and help them install a new belt, demonstrating a willingness to go above and beyond. In contrast, another customer was left stranded on the road after a NAPA employee refused to lend them a $7 wrench. This negative experience caused the customer to vow never to shop at NAPA again.

It is worth noting that NAPA stores are known to offer a wide range of automotive parts and accessories, and their staff often have extensive knowledge in this area. While they may not always lend out tools, they can often provide valuable advice and guidance to customers working on automotive projects.

Additionally, NAPA stores have been praised for their great customer service and competitive prices. As such, it may be worthwhile to call ahead to your local NAPA store to inquire about their specific policies regarding loaner tools. This can help you avoid disappointment and ensure you have the tools you need for your project.

Overall, while NAPA stores may offer loaner tools, this is not a guarantee, and it is important to be aware of the varying practices across different locations.

AutoZone offers a Loan-A-Tool® service with a range of specialty tools

AutoZone offers a Loan-A-Tool® service, providing a range of specialty tools for automotive repairs. This loaner tool program includes over 100 heavy-duty automotive tools for various maintenance jobs and specialty repairs. AutoZone's loaner tool program is designed to help DIYers who need specific tools for car repairs but do not want to purchase them.

The Loan-A-Tool® service covers a wide range of specialty tools, including those for working on serpentine belts, steering and suspension, electrical and diagnostic, engine and clutch, air conditioning and cooling, ball joints, pullers, exhaust, power steering, tie rods, pitman arms, tube bending, and brake, tire, and wheel repairs.

To use the Loan-A-Tool® service, customers simply need to put down a deposit for the equipment, which is equal to the purchase price of the tool. They can then take the tool and use it for as long as needed. Once they are done, they can return the tool to any AutoZone store within 90 days and receive a full refund. Alternatively, if they decide they would like to keep the tool, they can do so and the deposit will be used to cover the purchase price.

AutoZone's Loan-A-Tool® service provides a convenient and cost-effective solution for DIYers who need access to specialty tools without having to purchase them outright. This program helps ensure that customers have the right tools to complete their automotive repairs correctly and efficiently.

O'Reilly Auto Parts offers a similar Loaner Tool Program

O'Reilly's Loaner Tool Program allows customers to rent specialized tools they may only need once, with a refundable deposit required upon pick-up. This deposit is returned in full upon the return of the tool, or customers can choose to keep the tool and add it to their collection. The deposit is also the purchase price of the tool.

The program includes tools such as ball joint presses, tie rod and ball joint separators, strut spring compressors, tie rod removers, pitman arm pullers, steering wheel pullers, inner tie rod sockets, and torsion bar tools.

O'Reilly Auto Parts also offers a range of free store services to help customers diagnose and complete repairs, including check engine light testing, battery testing, alternator and starter testing, wiper blade installation, headlight bulb installation, and fluid and battery recycling.

Advance Auto Parts also has a tool loan program

The Advance Auto Parts tool loan program is a great option for those looking to tackle automotive maintenance or repair jobs without having to purchase expensive tools. With over 4,000 locations across the US, Advance Auto Parts is a convenient and accessible option for many.

The loaner tool program covers a range of automotive maintenance and repair jobs, including steering and suspension, electrical and diagnostic, engine and clutch, air conditioning and cooling, and more. This means that customers can find the right tool for the job without having to invest in purchasing specialty tools that may only be used infrequently.

In addition to Advance Auto Parts, other auto parts stores such as O'Reilly Auto Parts and AutoZone also offer tool loaner programs. O'Reilly's Loaner Tool Program includes over 80 tools for rent, covering a wide range of automotive repairs. AutoZone's Loan-A-Tool® program offers more than 100 specialty tools, providing customers with the necessary equipment to complete heavy-duty automotive jobs.

Frequently asked questions