A core charge is a refundable deposit added to the price of a new battery. Return the old battery and you get it back. Costco’s is typically about $15 (verify on costco.com); AAA’s mobile service includes free recycling. The calculator subtracts the refund only where we have a sourced amount.
Never throw a battery in household waste. Take it back to the seller or find a drop-off with car battery near me.
Why batteries carry a core charge
Lead-acid batteries are recyclable, and the lead and plastic can be reused. A core charge is a deposit that encourages you to bring the old battery back. When you buy a new battery and return the old one, you get the deposit back. If you do not return it, you lose it. Costco’s is typically about $15 on a third-party guide; AutoZone’s product pages list a refundable core charge on its batteries, and amounts vary by product and store.
How to get it back
- Keep your receipt.
- Bring the old battery to the same seller, often when you buy the new one, since many apply the credit on the spot.
- If you buy online, follow the seller’s return instructions, because shipping rules for batteries are strict.
No new battery? You can still recycle
AutoZone’s recycling page says it offers a merchandise credit for recycling an old battery without buying one, with exclusions, so ask your local store. AAA’s mobile service includes free recycling of the old battery, which AAA describes as a $70 value. Many auto parts stores, scrap yards and local waste facilities also accept lead-acid batteries; use our car battery near me page for store locators.
Handling a used battery
- Wear gloves and eye protection.
- Keep it upright and in a tray or box.
- Do not drop it or stack heavy items on it.
- Do not leave it in a hot car or in a place where children or pets can reach it.
- Never dump it in household waste or bury it.
Hybrid and EV batteries
High-voltage batteries have different recycling channels. Dealers and specialists handle them; do not remove them yourself. See the 12V battery in hybrids and EVs.
Counting the refund in your total
Our calculator subtracts a core refund only where we have a sourced amount. For other stores it leaves it out and tells you, so you do not count on money that may not be there. Ask the store for the figure.