However, AutoZone has been facing challenges in terms higher expenses related to opening new distribution centers and increasing the frequency of delivery to stores. Estimate Trend & Surprise History Investors should note that the fourth quarter (ended Aug 26, 2017) of fiscal 2017 earnings estimates for AutoZone have been going down over the past week and month. Meanwhile, the company delivered a positive earnings surprise in one of the trailing four quarters, met expectations in one and missed in two, with an average miss of around 1.5%.