Here is what I realized this past weekend about Advance Auto Parts (APP). In my experience, some of their prices (e.g. motor oil) can be extremely high. However, there is one factor in place to justify that premium...customer service
Service: Here is where AAP earns their pay. Everyone at this location, to me, is friendly and helpful. Go in there puzzled on how to fix something and they will help you get it done. AAP even offers free tool rental for that special project (you put a deposit down and you take the tool. Bring it back in working order with no parts missing and you will get your deposit back). Sweet!
Changing your own oil? Do the environment a solid and collect all that oil waste in a container. Then take it to AAP and they will take it off your hands and recycle it for free. See...customer service.
Need a new battery? I have had them (a location in Raleigh) install a battery on my car and there was no extra charge. This saved me from being stranded one evening while hours from home. Again...customer service.
Overall: While pricier on some items than say a Walmart, the extra you pay for is there to have someone assist you in your automotive emergency. I guess in many instances that is money well spent.