Yes, Guitar Center will change your strings, but the cost and speed depend on which location you visit and whether you buy the strings there
Guitar Center offers string-changing service at most of its stores. You can bring your guitar in, have them install new strings, and walk out the same day in many cases. However, not every location offers this service, the price varies by store, and you'll often pay less if you buy the strings from them rather than bringing your own.
The fastest way to find out what your local Guitar Center charges and whether they're currently taking walk-ins is to call the store directly. Staff can tell you the exact price, how long the job takes, and whether you need an appointment or can drop in. Some locations are busier than others, especially on weekends.
Key Takeaways
- Most Guitar Center locations offer string-changing service, but you should call your store first to confirm they do and to ask about current pricing.
- You will typically pay less if you purchase the strings at Guitar Center than if you bring your own strings for them to install.
- The job usually takes 15 to 30 minutes, though wait times vary depending on how busy the store is that day.
- Some Guitar Center locations may require an appointment during peak hours, while others accept walk-ins; calling ahead prevents a wasted trip.
How much Guitar Center charges for string changes
Guitar Center does not publish a single price for string changes across all stores. The cost typically ranges from $10 to $25 for labor alone, depending on your location and the type of guitar. Some stores charge a flat rate; others charge more for acoustic guitars than electric guitars because the job takes longer.
If you buy the strings at Guitar Center, the labor is often discounted or waived entirely as part of the purchase. If you bring your own strings, you will pay the full labor fee. Ask your store whether they offer a discount when you buy strings there—many do, but the discount is not automatic.
Prices also shift based on how busy the store is. During slow periods, some locations may charge less or move you through faster. During peak shopping times, especially around holidays or weekends, you may face a longer wait or a higher price.
What to bring and what to expect when you arrive
Bring your guitar and, if you have them, the strings you want installed. If you don't have strings yet, Guitar Center sells them in the store, and staff can recommend a gauge and type that matches your guitar. You'll also want to bring your receipt if you bought the strings there recently, though it's not required.
When you arrive, tell a staff member you need a string change. They will take your guitar to the service area, remove the old strings, clean the fretboard if needed, and install the new ones. The whole process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes, though this varies. During busy times, you may wait an hour or more.
Some stores will let you wait in the store while they work; others may ask you to come back later. Ask when you drop off your guitar so you know whether to stay or leave.
When Guitar Center may not change your strings
Not every Guitar Center location offers string-changing service. Smaller stores or those in certain regions may not have the staff or equipment to do the work. The only way to know is to call your local store and ask directly.
Guitar Center may also decline to change strings if your guitar is damaged or in poor condition. If the tuning pegs are broken, the bridge is cracked, or the neck is severely warped, staff may refuse the job because installing new strings could cause further damage. In those cases, they may recommend taking your guitar to a repair specialist instead.
Alternatives if your Guitar Center doesn't offer the service
If your local Guitar Center doesn't change strings or is too busy, local music shops and independent guitar repair shops almost always do. These shops often charge $10 to $20 for labor and may be faster than a big-box store because they have fewer customers waiting.
You can also change strings yourself if you want to save money and learn the skill. The process takes 20 to 45 minutes once you've done it a few times, and you only need wire cutters and a string winder (which costs about $10). Many YouTube tutorials walk through the process step by step for both electric and acoustic guitars.
How to call ahead and what to ask
When you call your Guitar Center, ask for the music services department or the person who handles repairs and setups. Tell them you need strings changed and ask these questions: Do you offer string-changing service? What is the cost? How long does it take? Do you need an appointment, or do you take walk-ins? Is the price different if I buy strings from you versus bringing my own?
Write down the answers so you have them when you visit. If they say they're fully booked, ask when they expect to have an opening. Some stores can schedule you for a specific time, which saves you from showing up and waiting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I watch while Guitar Center changes my strings?
Most stores will let you watch from the service area, but some may ask you to wait in the main store for safety or space reasons. Ask when you drop off your guitar. If you want to learn how to do it yourself, watching the process is a good way to start.
What if I don't know what gauge strings to buy?
Tell the Guitar Center staff what type of guitar you have and what sound you prefer. They can recommend a gauge and brand. If you're unsure, standard gauges work fine for most players—staff will steer you toward the most common choice for your guitar type.
Do I need to make an appointment, or can I just walk in?
It depends on your store and how busy they are. Call ahead to ask. Some locations take walk-ins during slow hours but require appointments on weekends. Calling first takes two minutes and prevents a wasted trip.
How often should I change my guitar strings?
Most players change strings every three to six months, depending on how often they play and how they sound. If strings sound dull, feel rough, or break easily, it's time for new ones. Heavy players may change strings monthly; casual players might go longer.
Will changing strings affect my guitar's tuning or setup?
New strings will need time to settle and stay in tune. Expect to retune every few hours for the first day or two. A proper string change should not affect your setup, but if your guitar was already out of adjustment, new strings may make the problem more noticeable.