How Much Do Hubcaps Cost?
A hubcap, the round metal covering that is fitted onto the hub of the car or the central portion of the wheel, often adds value or an aesthetic appeal to a car, truck or van.
Some cars, such as those with stamped steel wheels, use a full wheel cover that actually conceals the entire wheel. With older car models, the hubcap is used to protect the axle hubs of the vehicles from dirt, debris, and dust; otherwise, the moving parts of the wheel could be prone to gradual damage.
Modern hubcaps now serve a dual purpose: Aside from protecting the lugs and the wheel hub, the newer hubcaps also serve as a fashion statement.
How much do hubcaps cost?
Depending on the condition, the size, brand, the material and where it’s purchased, the average hubcap is going to range anywhere from $25 to $50 each. However, higher-end hubcaps, such as those from a premium car maker, can cost upwards of $100 each.
There are special types of hubcaps, such as spinners, that can sell for $50 to $100 each.
Refer to the average hubcap range for popular makes and models:
| Make/Model | Average Price (OEM) |
|---|---|
| Chevy Malibu | $35 each |
| Dodge Charger | $35 each |
| Ford Escape | $75 each |
| Honda Civic | $55 each |
| Hyundai Sonata | $48 each |
| Nissan Leaf | $55 each |
| Nissan Rogue | $40 each |
| PT Cruiser | $45 each |
| Toyota Corolla | $55 each |
| Toyota Matrix | $45 each |
| Toyota Prius | $45 each |
| Toyota Sienna | $65 each |
Replica hubcaps can cost as little as $20 for a pack of four. For example, a four pack of 15″ Toyota Corolla hubcaps retails for $21.
ineedahubcap.com offers a wide array of new, used and reconditioned hubcaps for different vehicles. A 12-inch chrome hubcap retails for $25 while a 16-inch chrome hubcap retails for $35. Most of their budget hubcaps are $25 to $35 each.
Hubcap overview
Common sizes include 12″, 13″, 14″, 15″, 16″ and 17″. The vast majority are made from a plastic material.
Hubcaps are either going to be sold separately or in packs of four. They should be easy to install and you should not need any professional help.
What are the extra costs?
Hubcaps can be personalized and specially designed for an extra fee.
If you need to have a mechanic install the hubcaps for you, this can cost an additional $25 to $50.
Shipping prices can be applied to purchases online. Usually, this is less than $10 to $15 per order, but it can be waived if you meet the minimum order requirement.
Tips to know:
There are various ways to install a hubcap. With some vehicles, the hubcaps need to be screwed onto the tire while others require the removal of the lug nuts. Some hubcaps simply snap into place.
Hubcaps are mainly for looks and offer very little protection. When choosing a hubcap, it is best to find a replica that closely matches the factory brand; however, if you want something that is going to last as long as possible, most experts recommend an OEM part.
Before buying a hubcap, be sure that you know the size of your tire. You can do this by checking the numbers that are usually embedded at the sidewall of the tire, or you can check for it in your vehicle’s manual. It is actually a series of three numbers, the last set of which indicates your tire diameter. Many websites today, however, allow you to simply input your make and model. From there, they will list the hubcaps that should fit your tire.
How can I save money?
Factory made hubcaps are going to cost more than the replicas. If you don’t need an exact match or don’t care for the original quality, an aftermarket hubcap will always be cheaper.
Hubcaps that are made of plastic and other lightweight materials are often cheaper, but the problem with this material, though, is that it is more prone to damage from road debris.
It is always best to purchase your hubcaps online. By doing so, you can avoid the high dealership markup costs and you can be assured that you are getting the right make and model. Be sure to look for coupon codes or promotions before making a purchase online with popular retailers.
Check the junkyard for cheap hubcaps. If a car was in an accident or stopped running, you may be able to get a decent set of hubcaps.
Check eBay for either new or reconditioned hubcaps for a much lower cost than some online retailers.
Installing hubcaps is actually very easy to do and most just snap into place. If you are having a hard time, check how-to guides on the Internet to show you how it is done.
There are some tire shops that offer free hubcaps (limited choices) when you purchase four new tires. Take advantage of this when you can.
Consider looking for a reconditioned OEM hubcap to save up to 20 percent.
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