Hubcap replacement generally costs between $10 and $200 per cap, with most common options falling in the $15–$60 range for aftermarket wheel covers and $40–$150 for OEM caps from dealers. Labor, if installation is needed, typically adds about $20–$60.
Pricing basics: what you’ll likely pay
Below are the typical price ranges you can expect for a single hubcap, based on source and type. These prices reflect new parts; used or refurbished options can be cheaper.
- Aftermarket wheel covers (unbranded or generic): usually $10–$40 per cap.
- Aftermarket branded but non-OEM caps: about $15–$60 per cap.
- OEM hubcaps from the dealer or official parts retailers: roughly $40–$150 per cap, depending on model and size; luxury or rare models may exceed this.
- Used or refurbished hubcaps from salvage yards or online marketplaces: typically $5–$30 per cap, with condition varying.
- Center caps (the emblem or cap that covers the central hub, sometimes sold separately): about $10–$100+ per cap, depending on brand.
Prices vary by vehicle, design, and stock levels. Always verify compatibility before purchase and consider whether you’re buying a complete wheel cover or a center cap that fits your rims.
Factors that influence the price
Type of cap: wheel cover vs center cap
Wheel covers (the full plastic cover that snaps over a wheel) and center caps (the small emblem piece on the hub) are priced differently. Wheel covers are usually cheaper, while center caps for premium brands can be more expensive.
Source of parts: OEM vs aftermarket
OEM hubcaps from the dealer tend to be more expensive but guaranteed to fit; aftermarket options save money but fit quality can vary.
Condition: new vs used or refurbished
New parts carry the full warranty, but used or refurbished hubcaps can save money at the cost of wear, cracks, or fading.
Labor and installation considerations
Installation costs are usually modest if you buy the hubcap from a shop, but some stores offer free installation if part is purchased there. Labor estimates commonly fall in the following ranges:
- DIY replacement: essentially zero labor cost beyond your time; you buy and snap the hubcap on yourself.
- Dealer or shop installation: typically $15–$60 per hubcap for mounting, sometimes bundled with the purchase.
- If removal of a damaged wheel or using specialized tools is required: prices may be higher depending on the service.
Note that in many cases, hubcaps are designed for quick snap-on installation and require no tools beyond your hands, but some wheels may need a hubcap installation tool or clips.
Tips for saving money and finding the right part
To get the right part at the best price, consider these strategies.
- Shop by vehicle: know your wheel diameter in inches (e.g., 14", 15", 17") and the hub size to ensure a proper fit.
- Compare sources: check dealer, major auto parts stores, and online marketplaces for new and used options.
- Check compatibility: verify part numbers or photos match your current hubcap and wheel design.
- Consider alternatives: if a hubcap is just cosmetic and you can live with the look, a used cap can be a good value; or you can mix and match if a near-fit is acceptable.
- Watch for returns and warranties: ensure you can return if the cap doesn’t fit or fails quality checks.
Careful shopping can yield substantial savings, especially for older or less popular vehicles where OEM parts are scarce or expensive.
Bottom line and practical guidance
The exact price to replace a hubcap depends on the make and model, your choice of OEM versus aftermarket, and whether you buy new or used. For most buyers, expect to spend about $10 to $60 for an aftermarket hubcap, or roughly $40 to $150 for an OEM piece. Installation, if required, adds a modest extra cost, though DIY replacement can save money.
Summary
Hubcap replacement is typically affordable, with wide price ranges based on part type, source, and condition. Shopping smartly—checking compatibility, comparing online and in-store prices, and deciding between new, used, or refurbished parts—can keep costs down while restoring your vehicle’s appearance. Always verify fit before purchase and consider whether a full wheel cover or a simple center cap is needed.
Are hubcaps covered by insurance?
Driving your car into an especially large pothole can cause significant damage to your vehicle. This can include damage to your car's suspension, alignment, tires, wheels, hubcaps, and more. If you carry collision coverage, this damage will usually be covered.
Can I still drive without a hubcap?
A wheel centre hub cap is not a key component of your vehicle and a missing cap won't impact immediately on how your vehicle drives. However, it's important to remember that a wheel centre hub cap has an important protective role.
Does AutoZone have wheel covers?
Shop AutoZone for a selection of make-specific and universal wheel cover sets to choose from.
Are hubcaps hard to replace?
Screw-on caps have a plastic nut that attaches to your vehicle's existing lugs. Replacing this type of hubcap is also easy, as you only have to unscrew each plastic nut to remove the hub cap. Again, protect yourself by parking your car on a flat surface, engaging the parking brake, and chocking the wheels.