Replacing a hubcap typically costs anywhere from about $15 to $600, depending on whether you’re swapping a single cap or all four, and whether you choose aftermarket or OEM parts. Labor costs apply if you have a shop install them.
Prices vary by material, model, and where you buy—OEM hubcaps from the dealer tend to be pricier, while aftermarket or salvaged hubcaps can save money. This article breaks down current pricing and practical tips for budgeting and shopping around.
What affects the cost
Several factors influence the final price you pay for a hubcap replacement.
- Part type and source: OEM hubcaps from the vehicle manufacturer are usually more expensive than aftermarket wheel covers. OEM hubcaps can range roughly from $60 to $150 per cap; aftermarket plastic caps are often $15 to $60 per cap.
- Number of caps replaced: Replacing a single hubcap is cheaper than replacing all four; full-set replacements scale with the number of caps needed.
- Wheel size and model compatibility: Larger wheels or less common models may require specialty caps, which can raise cost.
- Material and finish: Plastic wheel covers are usually cheaper than metal or chrome-finished hubcaps.
- Installation labor: DIY saves labor costs; professional installation typically adds about $20–$60 per hubcap, with some shops charging a flat service fee for mounting/demounting.
- Source and availability: Dealers, auto parts stores, online retailers, and salvage yards each have different price points and return policies.
Understanding these factors helps you estimate total costs and compare options before buying.
Typical price ranges
Here are common price ranges for hubcaps, covering parts and, where applicable, installation)
- Single hubcap (aftermarket): $15–$60
- Single hubcap (OEM/dealer): $60–$150
- Full set of four (aftermarket): $60–$240
- Full set of four (OEM/dealer): $240–$600
- Labor/installation (shop rate): $20–$60 per hubcap, or a small flat fee for the full job
- Shipping/tax (online purchases): typically $5–$20 shipping plus applicable tax
In practical terms, you can expect a total (parts plus labor) in the ballpark of $100–$800 for four hubcaps, depending on the choices you make.
Buying options and installation tips
Where to buy hubcaps
Shop across sources to balance authenticity, price, and return policies. Below are common options.
- Dealerships or brand retailers for OEM hubcaps (often the most authentic but pricier)
- Auto parts retailers and general retailers with aftermarket wheel covers
- Online marketplaces (Amazon, eBay, specialized wheel-cap retailers) with a wide price range
- Salvage yards or used-parts shops for cheaper, functional hubcaps
- Local auto shops that may stock hubcaps and offer installation
Before buying, confirm compatibility (wheel size, lug pattern, center bore) and check return policies if the cap doesn’t fit.
DIY vs professional installation
Your choice between doing it yourself or hiring a pro affects total cost and convenience.
- DIY installation: No labor charges, but you’ll need appropriate tools and time to remove and fit the caps without damage.
- Professional installation: Expect $20–$60 per hubcap for mounting, seating, and sometimes balancing; some shops include mounting in the price of the cap.
If you’re replacing multiple caps, many shops will offer a bundled price or a flat service fee for the whole job—ask for a written quote before proceeding.
Summary
Hubcap replacement costs vary widely, driven by whether you replace one cap or a full set, and by choosing OEM versus aftermarket parts. Anticipate roughly $15–$60 per aftermarket hubcap or $60–$150 per OEM cap, plus potential installation fees of $20–$60 per cap if you’re not doing it yourself. Replacing all four typically runs about $100–$800 total, depending on parts and labor. Shop around, verify compatibility with your vehicle, and consider whether salvage options or DIY installation fit your budget and needs.