BENTONVILLE, Ark. — When it comes to retail innovation, Walmart is driving toward a future of faster, easier and more seamless shopping experiences. Today, the retailer announced the launch of its Auto Care Centers (ACCs) of the Future, a groundbreaking step in reimagining car care for customers, with the first of 10 locations now open in Fayetteville, Arkansas.
The new ACCs aim to modernize Walmart’s auto services by blending in-store expertise with digital convenience, featuring a contactless service model that lets customers schedule, check in and track their car's progress through the Walmart app.1 The centers set the standard for what’s next — not just in the auto space, but for the future of omni retail.
“We’ve built Auto Care Centers around value and convenience. By adding new technology, we’re giving customers the same trusted service — now with a seamless experience that fits their lifestyles,” said Corey Bender, senior vice president, Hardlines, Walmart U.S.
Putting customers in the driver’s seat
Since its first Auto Care Center in Claremore, Oklahoma, in 1979, Walmart has opened ACCs in 2,582 Supercenters across the U.S., making it one of the most accessible and affordable car care providers in the country. The centers have expanded their service offerings and auto assortment over time to serve more vehicles, all at Every Day Low Prices — including tire services starting at just $5 and oil changes starting at $27.
Here’s how it works:
- Sign into the Walmart app, navigate to “Services,” click “Auto Services” and schedule your service.
- At your appointment time, pull into a parking spot near the ACC and check in on the app.
- Enter the Auto Care Center, follow the instructions in the app to unlock your assigned locker and drop your keys into the locker.
- You’re all set! Get live updates of your car’s progress through the app, then pick up your keys and pay once your vehicle is ready.
“We know our customers are busy, and we want to make their lives a little easier every day,” said Tracy Poulliot, senior vice president, Shopping Experience, Walmart U.S. “The Walmart app is a place where you can do it all — whether it’s booking a car service, picking up or ordering your weekly groceries for delivery or scheduling a flu shot. Our goal is to help customers save money and live better, giving them time back for what matters most.”
The app is continually evolving to become the ultimate digital shopping assistant for customers — and a true game-changer for busy parents. Over the last two years, customers have saved more than 6.6 million hours by scheduling auto appointments online. Last year, Walmart expanded its installation-eligible digital tire assortment to include Walmart Marketplace tires, allowing customers to shop an even wider variety of tires online and conveniently ship them for installation at their local ACC.
Whether customers shop in their local store, on the Walmart app or on-the-go, the retailer is removing complexities to make everyday tasks — from rotating tires to restocking the fridge — more effortless than ever before.
