Auto parts prices are set to rise by 30% due to the war in the Middle East. The fastest price increases will be felt in the segment of original parts for premium foreign vehicles, which were most commonly shipped through Middle Eastern countries. The price hike will later affect non-original and universal consumable parts. This was told to Motor magazine by Tatyana Ovchinnikova, director of the international Fit Service auto repair franchise network.

"Today, the main factor driving price changes is the rising cost of logistics. Freight rates on alternative routes have already doubled, and this is being directly passed on to the final cost of spare parts. Imported goods, including auto parts, could rise in price by 15 to 30% in the coming months if the crisis drags on," Ovchinnikova stated.

She noted that the most vulnerable supply channel has proven to be parallel imports via the UAE and the Strait of Hormuz. In recent years, this region has accounted for 40 to 60% of original premium auto parts. Disruptions to these Middle Eastern logistics hubs will inevitably lead to longer wait times for certain part numbers and a growing share of alternatives on the market.

Despite rising prices, a complete disappearance of parts is not expected. The Russian market has diversified its supply chains, with a significant share now coming from China and direct Asian routes, which are largely unaffected by the situation in the Strait of Hormuz.

The shortage will hit hardest in body panels, optics, electronic control units, and components for right-hand-drive vehicles and rare models.