With regular updates to gas stations and convenience stores, it is reasonable to wonder, do gas stations sell batteries?
However, electric vehicles (EVs) are also becoming more popular, and expectations are that EVs will account for 58% of passenger vehicle sales by 2040. So, while gas stations typically sell alkaline batteries, they’re also becoming practical points for EV charging stations.
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Do Gas Stations Sell Batteries?
Customers who need AA and AAA batteries for small electronics can typically find them in a typical fuel convenience store. One consideration is the number of batteries you’re looking for. Many service stations don’t sell more than a package of four because there isn’t enough demand for it.
What Type of Batteries Are Sold in a Gas Station?
Alkaline batteries such as AA and AAA are often available at convenience stores in addition to other batteries like 9 volt, lithium-ion, and even auto batteries. You can typically find these non-rechargeable batteries on the shelves because they are the easiest to sell. In addition, small gas stations have less shelf space, making AAA and AA batteries a top choice because of their small size.
Gas stations located in areas frequented by tourists are more likely to have car batteries because vehicles on road trips are more likely to have battery issues. Others may have partnerships with automotive or hardware stores for battery delivery.
When it comes to rechargeable batteries, you’ll usually only find the most commonly purchased types (like
AA batteries). For example, it may be more challenging to find a battery pack in a location that isn’t tourist-oriented. Small areas focus on selling essentials, making batteries that don’t fall into this category difficult to find there.
What Is Sold At a Gas Station?
The sale of gasoline is the primary purpose of a gas station, but many different products can fit in the space if there is a convenience store. Some stores are modest buildings, while others are large service stations that might sell snacks such as donuts, chips, candy bars, and beef jerky. You can usually also find hot foods in a gas station convenience store.
Some have items usually seen in a hardware store. In addition to fuel, some have various types of merchandise meant for emergency use.
Items like battery chargers, alkaline batteries, and battery packs are available depending on the demand in the area. Travel items geared towards tourists are common at gas stations. Items such as maps, cigarettes, over-the-counter medicine, paper, pens, and periodicals are common.
What Should You Consider While Buying a Car Battery?
Your battery will have a sticker on the top or side with the date it was manufactured. You can locate the date of manufacture on a sticker applied to the top or side of the battery. Batteries less than six months old are considered fresh, with manufacture dates within three months preferred.
If your battery is nearing the end of its life, find a replacement made for the model of your car.
You may need to consult someone knowledgeable to help you with the task, or if you are a DIY-er, you may find some of the tools offered on websites for auto parts stores helpful.
Best Places To Buy Quality Batteries From
Big box retailers have a large inventory of car batteries to select from, but small dealers can help you find the specific battery for your car model. The focus of big box stores like Walmart is to offer the lowest price for batteries they’ll sell in large quantities. Warehouses like Costco and Sam’s Club allow customers to research the battery they’re looking for online.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
So, are other people also wondering, “do gas stations sell batteries?” Here are some of the most common questions on the topic.
Do service stations sell batteries?
A service station is a location that performs repairs and sells gasoline. While they don’t often carry automotive batteries due to the risk of explosion, these centers will order auto batteries and get them delivered to you for an installation fee.
Service stations do sell batteries for small electronics. However, most batteries are only available in AA and AAA sizes. Big box stores will offer these types of batteries at a lower cost, but they’re helpful for customers who need them for minor emergencies.
Do they sell AA batteries at gas stations?
AA batteries are a battery often seen at gas stations in small quantities. Gas stations often have this type of battery readily available to travelers. A gas station can be a quick way for you to purchase a few AA batteries at a time.
Do gas stations sell car batteries?
Gas stations rarely sell car batteries for a couple of reasons. First, they take up too much storage. Second, a bad battery can outgas flammable hydrogen, creating an explosion risk. Gas stations can sometimes order the car battery you need and install it for you.
Does quiktrip sell AA batteries?
Quiktrip has indicated in the past on social media that they sell batteries at their convenience stores. A call or visit to the nearest Quiktrip would determine whether they have AA batteries in stock.
Do gas stations sell key fob batteries?
A big box store is a more likely place to find a key fob battery, though gas stations with stores located on a highway tend to have more. If your key fob accepts a standard battery, the better the chance of finding it. Auto parts stores like AutoZone have information about the correct battery needed on their website.
The Bottom Line
Since there are many types of batteries and it’s impossible for gas stations to stock them all, the hardware store may be your best bet for finding the right one. If you need a specific type of battery or battery charger, you’ll likely need to visit an automotive or hardware store.
It is not to say that a gas station can’t offer you the essentials for your trip. If you’re planning a long drive, packing difficult-to-find battery packs, battery chargers, and batteries is a good idea. Non-rechargeable batteries available are most likely AA and AAA batteries.
James is an engineer and a professional blogger. He has gained extensive experience over the years, handling all types of power projects. He loves to share his experiences with all things related to batteries, generators, and other power-related topics.
