Oreillys
If you’ve ever had a dead battery, a check engine light, or a broken wiper blade, there’s a good chance you’ve stopped by an O’Reilly Auto Parts store. Many people simply search for “Oreillys” when they need a part fast. With thousands of locations across the United States, Mexico, and Canada, it’s one of the biggest auto parts chains in North America.
This guide explains what the company offers, how its free services work, how to save money, and how it compares with other parts stores.
Quick Facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Company name | O’Reilly Automotive, Inc. |
| Store brand | O’Reilly Auto Parts |
| Founded | 1957 |
| Headquarters | Springfield, Missouri, US |
| Founders | Charles F. O’Reilly and Charles H. “Chub” O’Reilly |
| CEO | Brad Beckham |
| Stores | 6,758 (as of September 30, 2026) |
| Countries | United States, Mexico, Canada |
| Stock ticker | ORLY (Nasdaq) |
| Loyalty program | O’Rewards |
What Is Oreillys?
Oreillys is the common search term for O’Reilly Auto Parts, a retail chain that sells car parts, tools, fluids, and accessories. It serves two main groups of customers:
- Do it yourself (DIY) customers: Drivers who fix and maintain their own cars
- Professional customers: Repair shops, dealerships, and fleet owners that need parts delivered quickly
That dual focus is a big part of the company’s success. While some competitors lean more toward one group, O’Reilly has built strong business with both.
A Short History
One Store in Springfield
The company began in 1957 in Springfield, Missouri. Charles F. O’Reilly and his son, Charles H. “Chub” O’Reilly, opened the first store with just 13 employees. They had worked in the auto parts business before and wanted to build a company of their own.
Steady Growth
For decades, O’Reilly grew mainly across the Midwest. The company went public on the Nasdaq in 1993, which gave it money to expand faster.
Big Acquisitions
Much of its growth came from buying other chains:
| Year | Acquisition | What It Added |
|---|---|---|
| 1998 | Hi/LO Auto Supply | Stores in Texas and nearby states |
| 2001 | Mid-State Automotive | Stores in the Southeast |
| 2008 | CSK Auto | Checker, Schuck’s, and Kragen stores in the West |
| 2016 | VIP Parts, Tires and Service | Stores in New England |
| 2019 | Mayasa | Entry into Mexico |
| 2024 | Groupe Del Vasto | Entry into Canada |
The 2008 CSK deal was especially important. It turned O’Reilly into a coast to coast chain, and the old store names were later changed to O’Reilly.
How Big Is the Company in 2026?
As of September 30, 2026, the company operated 6,758 stores:
| Country | Stores |
|---|---|
| United States | 6,595 |
| Mexico | 134 |
| Canada | 29 |
| Total | 6,758 |
In its third quarter 2026 report, released October 28, 2026, the company posted sales of $5.12 billion, up 9% from a year earlier. Comparable store sales rose 7.2%. It raised its full year 2026 revenue outlook to $19.0 billion to $19.3 billion and planned to open 225 to 235 net new stores during the year.
CEO Brad Beckham credited “Team O’Reilly’s dedication” for the strong quarter.
Free Services at Oreillys
One of the best reasons to visit is the long list of free services. Here’s what most stores offer, though availability can vary by location.
Battery Testing and Charging
Stores test batteries for free, either in your vehicle or out of it. This includes car, truck, SUV, commercial, heavy duty, and powersport batteries. Many stores can also charge your battery.
Tip: Get your battery tested before winter. Cold weather is hard on weak batteries, and a quick test can save you from getting stranded.
Alternator and Starter Testing
If your car won’t start or your lights dim while driving, the problem might be the alternator or starter. Stores can test these parts for free, in the car or after you remove them.
Check Engine Light Scanning
When your check engine light comes on, stores can read the trouble codes for free using an O’Reilly VeriScan tool. You’ll get a report with the codes and possible fixes.
Important: A code tells you where the problem is, not always what’s broken. A code for an oxygen sensor, for example, could mean a bad sensor, a wiring issue, or an exhaust leak. If you’re not sure, ask a mechanic before buying parts.
Recycling
You can drop off used motor oil, transmission fluid, gear oil, oil filters, and old batteries for free. This keeps harmful fluids out of the environment and makes DIY oil changes easier.
Wiper Blade and Bulb Installation
Buy wiper blades, and staff will often install them for free. Many stores also install headlight and exterior bulbs with purchase, though some vehicles make bulb changes too difficult for a quick install.
Services That Cost a Little
| Service | How It Works |
|---|---|
| Loaner Tool Program | Borrow specialty tools with a refundable deposit |
| Brake drum and rotor resurfacing | Small fee at select stores |
| Custom hydraulic hoses | Available at many locations |
The Loaner Tool Program
This is one of the most useful programs for DIY repairs. Stores have more than 80 specialty tools, such as ball joint presses, pullers, and pressure testers. You pay a deposit, use the tool, and get your money back when you return it.
Why it matters: Many specialty tools cost $50 to $200 or more. If you only need one for a single job, borrowing saves a lot of money.
O’Rewards Loyalty Program
O’Rewards is the company’s free loyalty program. Members earn points on purchases in stores and online, and those points turn into rewards on future purchases. Members also get special offers.
To get the most from it:
- Sign up before your first big purchase
- Give your phone number or scan your account at checkout every time
- Watch for bonus point offers
- Use the app or website to track your rewards
Shopping Online and Pickup
You can shop on the company’s website or app. Options include:
- Free in store pickup: Order online and grab your part at your local store
- Next day delivery: Available on many orders
- Buy now, pay later: Options such as Klarna on the website
Online ordering is especially helpful when you want to make sure a part is in stock before you drive over.
Store Brands
The company sells many name brand parts, plus its own house brands, which often cost less. Some well known O’Reilly store brands include:
| Brand | Product Type |
|---|---|
| Super Start | Batteries |
| BrakeBest | Brake parts |
| MicroGard | Filters |
| Murray | Cooling and heating parts |
| Omnispark | Spark plugs and ignition |
Store brands can be a smart way to save money on common repairs. Compare warranties, since some store brand parts come with longer coverage than you’d expect.
Store Hours
Hours vary by location, but many stores open early and stay open late. A typical schedule might be 7:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Sunday. Always check your local store’s hours online before you go.
Oreillys vs Other Auto Parts Stores
| Feature | O’Reilly | AutoZone | Advance Auto Parts | NAPA |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Free battery testing | Yes | Yes | Yes | Varies |
| Free check engine scan | Yes | Yes | Yes | Varies |
| Loaner tools | Yes | Yes | Yes | Varies |
| Loyalty program | O’Rewards | AutoZone Rewards | Speed Perks | NAPA Rewards |
| Strong pro business | Yes | Growing | Yes | Yes |
All the major chains offer similar free services. The best choice often comes down to which store is closest, which has your part in stock, and which loyalty program you already use.
Why Shops Like O’Reilly
Repair shops value fast delivery and wide parts selection. O’Reilly uses a network of distribution centers and hub stores to keep parts close to customers. Many stores can get a part from a nearby hub within hours, which matters to mechanics waiting to finish a job.
Money Saving Tips
- Use free services first. Get a free scan or battery test before buying anything.
- Compare prices online. Check the website before you visit, and look for online only deals.
- Borrow, don’t buy, specialty tools. Use the Loaner Tool Program for one time jobs.
- Join O’Rewards. Points add up, especially on big purchases like batteries.
- Bring your old parts. Many parts, such as batteries and alternators, have a core charge that you get back when you return the old part.
- Ask about warranties. Some parts come with lifetime or long warranties. Keep your receipt or use your rewards account to track purchases.
- Check store brands. They often cost less and may have good warranties.
Understanding Core Charges
A core charge is a deposit added to the price of certain parts, such as batteries, alternators, starters, and brake calipers. When you bring back your old part, you get the deposit back. The old parts are then rebuilt or recycled. Always bring your old part in, or return it soon after your repair, to avoid paying more than you need to.
Returns and Warranties
Most new, unused parts can be returned with a receipt within the store’s return window. Electrical parts may have stricter rules once installed. Warranty coverage depends on the product, so check the details at purchase. Being an O’Rewards member can make it easier to find your purchase history if you lose a receipt.
Working at Oreillys
The company employs tens of thousands of people across North America. Common jobs include:
- Retail sales associates
- Parts specialists
- Delivery drivers
- Store managers
- Distribution center workers
Many employees enjoy learning about cars on the job. The company is known for promoting from within, and many managers started as part time team members.
Tips for First Time DIYers
If you’re new to car repair, start with simple jobs:
- Replacing wiper blades: Quick and easy, and staff can help
- Changing air filters: Usually takes just a few minutes
- Swapping a battery: Often simple, but watch for safety steps
- Checking fluids: Oil, coolant, and washer fluid are easy to check
Ask store staff for advice. They can’t replace a mechanic, but they can point you to the right parts, tools, and how to videos.
Seasonal Car Care Checklist
Each season brings its own car problems. Stopping by a parts store a few times a year can help you stay ahead of them.
| Season | What to Check |
|---|---|
| Winter | Battery health, antifreeze, wiper blades, washer fluid |
| Spring | Tire pressure, alignment, air filter after winter |
| Summer | Coolant level, AC performance, belts and hoses |
| Fall | Lights, brakes, and battery before cold weather |
Free battery tests before winter and coolant checks before summer heat can prevent the most common breakdowns. Keeping an emergency kit in your trunk, with jumper cables, a flashlight, and a small first aid kit, is also a smart move.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Oreillys the same as O’Reilly Auto Parts? Yes. It’s a common way people search for O’Reilly Auto Parts.
Does O’Reilly test batteries for free? Yes. Most stores test batteries, alternators, and starters for free.
Will O’Reilly scan my check engine light? Yes. Most stores read trouble codes for free.
How many O’Reilly stores are there? There were 6,758 stores as of September 30, 2026.
Who owns O’Reilly Auto Parts? It’s run by O’Reilly Automotive, Inc., a public company traded on the Nasdaq under the ticker ORLY.
Final Thoughts
From one store in Springfield, Missouri, in 1957 to more than 6,700 stores across three countries, O’Reilly has become a go to place for drivers and mechanics. Its free services, Loaner Tool Program, and O’Rewards program make it easy to save money on car care. Next time you search for Oreillys, you’ll know exactly what you can get there.
Key Takeaways
- Oreillys is a common search term for O’Reilly Auto Parts, founded in 1957 in Springfield, Missouri.
- The company had 6,758 stores in the US, Mexico, and Canada as of September 30, 2026.
- Third quarter 2026 sales reached $5.12 billion, up 9% from a year earlier.
- Free services include battery, alternator, and starter testing, check engine scans, and recycling.
- The Loaner Tool Program lets you borrow specialty tools with a refundable deposit.
- O’Rewards members earn points on purchases toward future savings.
- Store brands like Super Start and BrakeBest can help you save on common repairs.
