The 2001 Checker Auto Parts 500 presented by Pennzoil was the 32nd stock car race of the 2001 NASCAR Winston Cup Series and the 14th iteration of the event.

Phoenix International Raceway – also known as PIR – is a one-mile, low-banked tri-oval race track located in Avondale, Arizona.

[4] Jeff Burton, driving for Roush Racing, would set the fastest time in the session, with a lap of 28.195 and an average speed of 127.682 miles per hour (205.484 km/h).

[6] The final practice session, sometimes referred to as Happy Hour, was held on Saturday, October 27, at 3:30 PM EST.

[4] Jeff Gordon, driving for Hendrick Motorsports, would set the fastest time in the session, with a lap of 28.325 and an average speed of 127.096 miles per hour (204.541 km/h).

[8] Casey Atwood, driving for Evernham Motorsports, would win the pole, setting a time of 27.419 and an average speed of 131.296 miles per hour (211.300 km/h).