Despite the marred history of their first generation of cars, the Korean automaker has devoted billions of dollars to improve their brand. Nevertheless, Hyundai parts still wear out like their competitors Toyota, Honda, and Kia. Are Hyundai parts expensive? Keep reading further to determine if Hyundai parts are more expensive than aftermarket parts?
Are Hyundai Parts Expensive?
Essentially, Hyundai parts, or their OEM parts, are more expensive when compared to aftermarket varieties like Cardone or iD Select. For instance, OEM axles from the dealership cost $374.80; a Cardone axle would be $102. It is not uncommon for Hyundai OEM parts to be more expensive than aftermarket parts.
Who Supplies Parts to Hyundai?
Like any other automaker, the Hyundai brand has its own manufacturers that provide their parts. Mando is an OEM supplier of Hyundai parts, the Korean-based manufacturer has locations in California and Alabama.
To keep your Hyundai reliable and ensure it has a long life, there are many parts that require regular replacement. Please note:
- While it’s easy to believe aftermarket parts could be cheaper and better, they may not be under warranty if they fail prematurely.
- Aftermarkets are also “reverse-engineered and approximately 85% similar to originals.
Also read: 3 Best Hyundai for the Money (+Most Reliable Engines)
Brake Pads
The brake pads stop the vehicle’s motion by using hydraulic pressure to clamp down on the rotors. This action creates heat and friction, which slows the car. Brake pads are made of organic material, semi-metallic compounds, or ceramic.
Brake pads should be replaced every 30,000-70,000 miles, depending on your driving conditions.
The table below describes how much brake pads cost.
| OEM | Carquest Premium Gold | Wagner | |
| (NEW) | $83.10 | $46.99 | $35.00 |
| (USED) | $41.55 | $23.49 | $17.50 |
I choose Wagner brake pads since they are high-quality and reliable parts. Mechanics will typically charge $74-$94 to replace the brakes for you. However, I recommend changing the brakes on your own as it isn’t complicated.
Filters
Your Hyundai uses a method of combustion to create engine power, but it needs a clean mixture of fuel and air. That is where various filters come into play.
- Air Filters – These filters can come in various shapes and sizes of cotton, foam, or synthetic paper. The pleated material in the filters keeps dust, insects, or other debris from entering the engine. They can last up to 45,000 miles.
- Oil Filters – These filters keep a continuous flow of oil throughout the engine and filter out the dust and metallic particles. It’s safe to replace these every 7,000 miles.
- Fuel Filters – These filters remove harmful impurities like dust, grit, and rust from the fuel you add to your vehicle. It’s common to replace these in Hyundai’s as the car approaches 80,000 miles.
The table below describes how much you should expect to pay for each of these filters. I don’t recommend buying used parts because of their diminished quality.
| OEM | Mann-Filter | Purolator One | STP Extended | Carquest Premium | |
| Air Filters | $39.99 | $15.99 | $25.49 | N/A | N/A |
| Oil Filters | $20.50 | N/A | N/A | $14.99 | $13.49 |
| Fuel Filters | $55.61 | N/A | N/A | N/A | $18.59 |
I would purchase OEM parts for the fuel filters and oil filters. Usually, aftermarket air filters are more than capable of working to manufacturer specifications. Mechanics will charge you $25 to change your air filter, approximately $56 for oil changes, and $110 to replace your fuel filter.
You can do most of these independently, although the fuel filter can be tricky due to the location and the pressurized fuel lines.
Also read: Are Subaru Parts Expensive? (with 8 Examples)
Battery
The car battery starts the engine and provides power to various electronics such as lights and radio. There are two types of batteries:
- Standard wet-cell – these batteries are known as conventional batteries. They can vent gas and leak acid. These batteries usually have caps to add fluid.
- Absorbed Glass Mat – these batteries are best known for short recharge periods and handling harsher climates. However, they can go for more extended periods of disuse as well.
Trending Video: How to Easily Bring Back to Life any Old Car Battery and Save Tons of Money (click to watch)
I’ve included a table below that describes the pricing for batteries. Before buying a used battery, do some research, but many companies offer used batteries with warranties.
| OEM | Diehard Gold | Diehard Plat. AGM | |
| (NEW) | $366.99 | $201.99 | $209.99 |
| (USED) | $183.50 | $101.00 | $104.99 |
Car batteries usually only last about three to five years; I would go with the Diehard Platinum AGM since these types of batteries could last longer in a Hyundai. A mechanic will charge $33 to replace your battery; I advise doing this yourself.
Starter and Alternator
Your Starter is an electrical motor that requires a fully charged battery to start your car. The Alternator regulates the electrical energy flowing through the engine and charges the battery.
These parts work in sync and don’t always have any apparent issues. I’ve included a table below describing the costs.
| OEM | Carquest Premium | |
| (NEW) Starter | $317.60 | $159.99 |
| (USED) Starter | $130.50 | $79.99 |
| (NEW) Alternator | $589.74 | $324.99 |
| (USED) Alternator | $294.87 | $162.49 |
Alternators and Starters can last approximately 150,000 miles on your Hyundai. A mechanic will typically charge $104 to replace your Starter and $80 for the Alternator. I wouldn’t perform these repairs by myself.
Also read: Are Hyundai Good Cars? All You Need to Know
Spark Plugs
Essentially, spark plugs supply a spark of electricity that causes the air/fuel mixture to ignite. This spark happens repeatedly, so your spark plugs must be up to the specifications of your vehicle.
I have included a table below describing the cost of spark plugs. Don’t buy used spark plugs as the conditions vary, and new ones are not expensive.
| Per plug | OEM (NGK/Denso) | NGK Racing Plugs | Champion Racing Plugs |
| (NEW) | $22.73 | $5.99 | $4.29 |
I recommend changing your spark plugs every 45,000 miles, especially if you notice rough idling or engine misfires. Bad spark plugs can drain your battery as well. If you purchase a higher-grade spark plug, it may not need to be changed as often.
You don’t need a mechanic to charge you $118 to change your spark plugs; it’s a job anyone can do.
Engine Oil
The motor oil in your Hyundai lubricates many of your engine’s moving parts, which reduces the wear and tear on your engine components.
The automaker recommends using 5W-20 and 5W-30 synthetic oil, but both are available. Synthetic oil cleans engine parts, reduces acid build-up, and keeps the engine cool.
Below is a table that describes oil pricing. I suggest choosing aftermarket synthetic varieties because they are readily available and meet manufacturer specifications. I do not recommend buying used oil for your vehicle because of its contaminants.
| 5QT | OEM (XTeer) | STP Dexos | Quaker State | Mobil 1 |
| Cost | $34.10 | $23.99 | $14.97 | $34.99 |
I would purchase the Mobil 1 because it’s the most affordable and reliable option. Save yourself $56 and change your oil at home.
Tires
Car tires are a cushion of rubber constructed to fit over the metal wheel of Hyundai vehicles. They create traction and allow the car to drive safely on the road. The table below describes the brands available for Hyundai.
| Per Tire | OEM (Kumho) | Goodyear Assurance | Hankook Kinergy | Dunlop Conquest | Yokohama Avid |
| (NEW) | $103.40 | $102.40 | $114.40 | $118.80 | $125.40 |
| (USED) | $51 | $51 | $57 | $59.50 | $62.50 |
Many tire options are available for Hyundai, especially in the aftermarket sector. Generally, I choose tires based on quality-tested reliability and go with Goodyear tires.
I suggest replacing your tires every 40,000-60,000 miles, but regular rotations will prolong the life of your tires. When buying used tires, thoroughly inspect them for dry rot, nails, or holes before purchasing them. It’s best to take your vehicle to the shop to have your tires professionally changed, as most DIY garages do not have the necessary equipment.
Also read: Are Suzuki Parts Expensive? (with Examples)
Wipers
Wiper blades are imperative to keeping the windshield on your vehicle clean and clear of obstructions.
Wipers blades are usually made of metal and rubber and come in different styles. Temperature fluctuations such as winter and summer can affect the lifespan of your wiper blades. Therefore, you should change your wiper blades every year, no matter what type you use.
Below I’ve included a table for various pricing on wiper blades.
| (R + L) | OEM | Trico Maxx | RainX Silicone |
| Cost | $44.10 | $58.98 | $72.98 |
Used wiper blades aren’t worth the risk. They could scratch your windshield or not perform as intended. I suggest changing your wiper blades at home, unless you’re already in the shop for another repair. I recommend choosing either Trico wiper blades because they will last all year.
Conclusion
Hyundai dealerships upcharge their parts and services, making their OEM parts more expensive than aftermarket parts. Often, aftermarket parts are more accessible to source, although it would be safest to research each brand thoroughly to ensure fitment and quality. Therefore, I suggest choosing aftermarkets for batteries, filters, spark plugs, oil, and tires.
While Hyundai’s are cheaper to maintain than most cars, choosing aftermarket parts should help you save money without compromising quality. However, only use trusted and reliable brands when selecting replacement parts for your Hyundai.
While it would be easy to debate this, choosing OEM parts or aftermarket parts comes down to risk and reward. Often, you are rewarded with reliability and quality when selecting OEM, but the same is true for quality aftermarket parts. When in doubt, consult a trusted mechanic or another source for advice on properly maintaining your Hyundai.
References
Hyundai Reliability: The Drive’s Guide, https://www.wholesalehyundaiparts.com, https://www.carid.com/2019-hyundai-sonata-driveline-axles/, https://www.hyundaioempartsdirect.com/, Hyundai Sonata Brake Pad Replacement Cost Estimate, How Often to Change Your Engine Air Filter | Suntrup Hyundai South, How Often Should You Get a Hyundai Oil Change? | Frequency, Tips, Hyundai Elantra Fuel Filter Replacement Cost Estimate, Air Filters | Genuine OEM Honda Parts, https://shop.advanceautoparts.com/, https://hyundaishop.com/hyundai-parts/, Hyundai Oil Filters For Sale, What Oil Filter Do I Need? | AutoZone, Genuine Fuel Filter for 2015-2019 Hyundai Sonata | Part# 31112-C2500 | Hyundai OEM Parts Direct, Hyundai Sonata Air Filter Replacement Cost Estimate, Best Battery for Hyundai Sonata – from $69.99+ | AutoZone.com, Hyundai Sonata Battery Replacement Cost Estimate, Hyundai Sonata Alternator | Advance Auto Parts, Hyundai Sonata Starter Replacement Cost Estimate, Hyundai Spark Plug Replacement Guide, Hyundai Sonata Spark Plug Replacement Cost Estimate, Best Motor Oil For Hyundai Elantra (Avante), https://www.hyundaitirecenters.com/, https://shop.advanceautoparts.com/
