The Hidden Markup on Common Car Parts
In Pakistan, car maintenance can feel like daylight robbery — especially when it comes to replacing even the simplest parts. Whether you’re visiting a roadside mechanic or an authorized dealership, chances are you’re paying far more than the actual value of the part. The frustrating part? Most car owners don’t even realize it.
From overpriced air filters to inflated brake pad costs, there’s a growing gap between what you should be paying and what you’re actually charged. With limited awareness, many drivers fall into the trap of “quick fixes” offered by workshops that often include poor-quality or overpriced components.
But here’s the good news: You don’t have to be an auto expert to save money. With the right information and a little awareness, you can cut your part costs by up to 40–60% — without sacrificing quality.
Let’s start by understanding why you’re being overcharged in the first place.
Why Are Car Parts So Expensive in Local Markets?
There’s no single reason — it’s a combination of import taxes, market dynamics, and customer unawareness that drives prices up.
1. Import Duties & Taxes:
Pakistan imposes heavy import duties on vehicle components, especially for Japanese, German, and American brands. These duties trickle down to the customer, often adding 20–40% to the retail price.
2. Dealer and Workshop Markups:
Authorized dealerships charge a premium for parts as part of their “genuine service” model. On the flip side, independent workshops often buy low-quality parts for cheap, then sell them to you at branded prices — banking on the fact that most customers can’t tell the difference.
3. Middlemen and Wholesaler Chains:
Most auto parts pass through 3–4 middlemen before reaching the mechanic. Each layer adds its own margin, making even a basic cabin filter unnecessarily expensive.
4. Lack of Pricing Transparency:
Unlike other countries where you can check part prices online, Pakistan’s auto parts market is largely offline and informal. This allows sellers to set prices based on customer ignorance — not actual market value.
Most Overpriced Car Parts (with Examples)
Let’s break down the car parts you’re likely overpaying for — and by how much.
🔧 Brake Pads & Discs
- Actual Cost: OEM-quality front brake pads for a Honda Civic or Toyota Corolla can be bought for PKR 3,000–5,000
- Typical Workshop Price: PKR 7,000–12,000 (plus fitting)
- What’s Happening: Workshops often sell local or Chinese brake pads at OEM prices. Many won’t show you the box or brand.
- Smart Tip: Always ask for the part number or packaging. You can find the exact same part online or at Bilal Gunj at 40% lower.
🌀 Air Filters & Cabin Filters
- Actual Cost: PKR 400–600 for air filters, 300–500 for cabin filters
- Workshop Price: Up to PKR 1,200–2,000 per filter
- What’s Happening: Workshops bank on convenience — charging a high markup for easy-to-install items.
- Smart Tip: Buy a 3-pack of filters online and store them. Takes 5 minutes to replace yourself.
⚡ Spark Plugs
- Actual Cost: Regular plugs (PKR 200–300/plug), Iridium plugs (PKR 800–1,500/plug)
- Workshop Price: Often 2x or 3x the actual cost
- What’s Happening: Mechanics often push “performance” plugs for small engines, even when not needed.
- Smart Tip: Know your engine specs. Use NGK or Denso for Japanese cars — available online with proper specs.
🔋 Car Batteries
- Actual Cost: AGS, Exide, or Daewoo 50–60 AH batteries sell for PKR 6,000–9,000
- Workshop Price: PKR 10,000–13,000, sometimes with old battery kept
- What’s Happening: Some mechanics keep the old battery (and resell it) while charging full price.
- Smart Tip: Buy direct from manufacturer outlets or authorized dealers. Ensure battery return policy is honored.
🛢️ Oil & Lubricants
- Actual Cost: Shell, ZIC, Total 4L packs = PKR 3,000–5,000 (fully synthetic)
- Workshop Price: Up to PKR 6,500–8,000, often with diluted or reused oil
- What’s Happening: Mechanics may fill reused containers with cheap bulk oil.
- Smart Tip: Bring your own sealed oil container and watch it being poured.
💡 Wiper Blades & Headlights
- Actual Cost: Wipers (PKR 300–800), headlight bulbs (PKR 400–1,500)
- Workshop Price: PKR 800–2,500 for wipers, 2x–3x for bulbs
- What’s Happening: Plastic parts with massive margins, especially during rainy season.
- Smart Tip: Order branded wipers online, such as Bosch or Trico. Install in 2 minutes.
Where to Get Genuine Parts at Lower Prices
You don’t have to pay premium rates to keep your car in top condition. Whether you’re driving a Mehran or a Mercedes, the key is knowing where to look. Here are the best sources to find high-quality parts at fair prices across Pakistan:
1. Online Marketplaces
Platforms like Daraz, PakWheels Auto Store, and even OLX have changed the game. You can now buy spark plugs, filters, batteries, oils, and more — all with transparent prices, user reviews, and doorstep delivery.
- Daraz offers seasonal sales and bundle deals on filters, oils, and wipers.
- PakWheels Auto Store partners with verified sellers and brands, reducing scam risk.
- OLX is ideal for gently used items (e.g., batteries, bumpers, tyres), but caution is key.
💡 Pro Tip: Search using part numbers (e.g., “90915-YZZD3 oil filter”) instead of just “oil filter for Corolla.”
2. Famous Scrap and Used Auto Markets
If you’re open to slightly used or unboxed parts, Pakistan’s iconic auto bazaars can be goldmines.
- Bilal Gunj – Lahore: One of Asia’s largest auto parts markets. Great for Japanese vehicles, engine swaps, lights, suspensions.
- Shershah – Karachi: Endless variety of both used and new parts, including European and Chinese brands.
- Sultan Ka Kho – Rawalpindi: Known for Honda/Toyota parts, tyres, alloy rims, body panels.
Prices here can be 30–60% cheaper than workshops. But you need to bargain hard, inspect before buying, and ideally take your mechanic along.
3. Direct Import Options
If you’re tech-savvy and patient, importing parts from AliExpress, Amazon, or eBay can save big — especially on tools, performance parts, and electronics.
- AliExpress has affordable tools, LED kits, trim pieces.
- eBay is great for exact OEM parts with shipping to Pakistan.
- Use freight forwarders or import agents for bulk or large items.
⚠️ Warning: Importing can involve delays, customs charges, and no return options — best for experienced buyers only.
How to Avoid Getting Ripped Off
Smart shopping isn’t just about where to buy — it’s also about how you buy. Here’s how to protect your wallet when dealing with any mechanic or seller:
1. Ask for Packaging and Part Numbers
A real part will come in branded, sealed packaging. If the mechanic pulls something from a generic plastic bag, ask questions. Reputable sellers should also share the part number — verify it online within seconds.
2. Compare Prices Before You Visit
Always look up prices on Daraz or PakWheels before going to your mechanic. If the workshop quote is 2–3x higher, politely decline and say you’ll bring your own part.
3. Beware of “Free Fitting” Offers
Many workshops offer “free fitting” if you buy parts from them — but that cost is often hidden in the inflated part price. Bring your own parts and pay a flat fitting charge instead.
4. Build a Trusted Relationship
Try to work consistently with one honest mechanic or parts supplier. Over time, they’ll offer you better rates and won’t push unnecessary replacements.
When It’s Okay to Pay More
Saving money is important — but not at the cost of safety or reliability. Here are situations where it’s wise to pay extra:
1. Safety-Critical Parts
Always buy genuine or OEM quality for brakes, suspension, airbags, steering, and tyres. A cheap brake pad or ball joint can cost you more than just money.
2. New Cars Under Warranty
If your car is under warranty, only use approved service centers. Non-genuine parts may void coverage — costing you in the long run.
3. Deep Engine or Electrical Work
Complex components like ECUs, sensors, transmission parts, or head gaskets should not be compromised. Buy new or verified refurbished items with return options.
4. Long-Term Peace of Mind
Sometimes, a slightly higher upfront price can save you repeated repairs. Ask yourself: “Would I rather fix this once or three times?”
Conclusion: Smart Maintenance = Long-Term Savings
Car ownership in Pakistan doesn’t have to be a financial burden — but it will be if you leave every decision to your mechanic. By becoming a more informed buyer, you can save thousands of rupees annually without compromising on your car’s health or performance.
The key takeaway? Don’t blindly accept workshop quotes. Compare, question, verify — and when needed, bring your own parts. Whether you’re driving a Suzuki Cultus or a Honda Vezel, knowing your options puts you in control.
Your car deserves quality care. But quality doesn’t have to mean overpriced. The next time you’re told a part “can’t be found cheaper anywhere,” smile — because now you know better.
