7 Car Accessories To Stock Up on Now in Case of Tariff-Induced Product Shortages
Written by
Choncé Maddox
Edited by
Rebekah Evans
Commitment to Our Readers
GOBankingRates' editorial team is committed to bringing you unbiased reviews and information. We use data-driven methodologies to evaluate financial products and services - our reviews and ratings are not influenced by advertisers. You can read more about our editorial guidelines and our products and services review methodology.
20 Years
Helping You Live Richer
Reviewed
by Experts
Trusted by
Millions of Readers
Recent 25% tariffs on a wide range of imported auto parts, including filters, belts, hoses and electrical components, could lead to higher prices and slower restocking. To stay prepared for potential shortages and avoid paying a premium later, it makes sense to purchase key replacement items now.
These accessories are worth adding to your parts stash, along with practical tips on choosing, storing and rotating them.
Engine Air Filters
A clean air filter ensures proper air flow into your engine, maximizing your car’s performance and fuel economy. Air filters fall under broad “filter” tariffs, so imported versions could become 20% to 30% more expensive, according to Jalopnik.
Consider buying a bulk pack of two or three filters now (they’re compact and shelf-stable for up to two years). Look for high-quality pleated paper filters that fit your make and model — brands like FRAM or K&N often offer multipacks at warehouse clubs. Air filters go according to your vehicle, but this STP Panel Engine Air Filter is $21.99 at AutoZone.
Oil Filters
Changing your oil without a fresh filter leaves contaminants in the engine, accelerating wear and tear. Like air filters, oil filters are caught in the new duties, meaning both branded and aftermarket units will rise in price.
Since most drivers change oil every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, consider stocking four to six filters if you drive 12,000 miles a year. Store them in a cool, dry place to prevent gasket degradation. Oil filters go according to your vehicle, but for example, the STP Extended Life Oil Filter is $9.99 at AutoZone.
Windshield Wiper Blades
According to Automotive Service Association, windshield wiper blades and their rubber components are now tariffed at 25%, so replacement kits could jump by several dollars each.
Keep a pair of all-season replacement blades on hand. Models with synthetic rubber or silicone edges (like Rain-X or Bosch ICON series) not only last longer but also resist ozone damage, meaning you can buy fewer over time. Find the windshield wipers that correspond to your vehicle, for instance, the Bosch PrimeACTIVE 26-inch Wiper Blade is $39.99 at AutoZone.
Brake Pads (and Rotors)
It’s no secret that worn brake pads reduce your stopping power and can even make it dangerous to drive if your rotors start to become affected as well. Both pads and rotors rely on steel and specialized composites, which fall under recent metal-related duties.
If you change pads yourself, consider thinking ahead and grabbing two sets now. For rotors, consider a pair of cross-drilled or slotted aftermarket units that include anti-rust coatings, which makes storage easier without surface corrosion. AutoZone offers brake pads and rotors for a range of prices, depending on your vehicle — for example, this Duralast Ceramic Disc Brake Pad Set is $46.99 and this Duralast Disc Brake Rotor is $88.99.
Spark Plugs and Ignition Coils
Worn plugs or weak coils lead to misfires, poor fuel economy and potential engine damage.According to the Observatory of Economic Complexity (OEC), electrical-system components like plugs and coils are largely imported and tariffs on those categories can delay shipments.
Stock three to four sets of plugs (platinum or iridium types last longer) and at least one extra coil pack. Keep them in their sealed factory packaging to protect against moisture. For example, a Bosch Iridium Spark Plug is $13.99 at AutoZone and a Duralast Direct Ignition Coil is $81.49. Again, car parts rely on your vehicle type, so prices vary by make and model.
Belts and Hoses
Timing belts, serpentine belts and radiator hoses keep your engine running and cooled. A failure can strand you on the side of the road. Rubber and composite hoses, plus reinforced belts, are all subject to the 25% tariff, so once inventories dip, prices will spike.
Because belts and hoses age even when unused, rotate one new belt and one new hose into your car now, then store the next set for use six months later. That way you avoid both shelf-wear and sudden price hikes. As an example, AutoZone sells a Duralast Accessory Drive Belt for $21.49 and a Duralast Coolant Hose for $48.99.
Cabin Air Filters
These small filters trap pollen, dust and debris which keeps your HVAC system efficient and cabin air healthy. Classified alongside other “filters,” cabin air filters will face the same duties as engine air or oil filters.
Cabin filters usually cost $15 to $25 each retail, so stocking two now means you’ll be covered for at least a year. For example, this STP Cabin Air Filter at AutoZone is $19.99.
Why Tariffs Could Create Shortages
- Broad scope: A recent federal notice lists dozens of tariff codes covering engines, transmissions, spark plug wires, brake hoses, filters and more — all now subject to a 25% duty as of May 3, 2025.
- Global supply chains: Many routine car parts are made abroad and shipped here under tight production schedules. When a sudden 25% tariff hits, overseas factories may pause or slow shipments rather than eat the extra cost. That delay quickly results in fewer parts on U.S. shelves. What remains may come with a steep price tag.
Tips for Smart Stock-Up Purchases
- Compare current versus future prices: Use tools like CamelCamelCamel to track online prices today and project post-tariff increases.
- Buy multipacks: Wholesale clubs (like Costco and Sam’s Club) and multi-pack listings lock in lower per-unit costs.
- Stagger storage: Take inventory of what you have and rotate parts to make sure you’re actively using them so they don’t sit past shelf-life, especially the rubber hoses and wiper blades.
By sourcing these essential items now, before tariffs sting, you’ll lock in today’s prices and have a better chance of avoiding future shortages so you can keep your car reliable.
Editor’s note: Pricing and availability may vary depending on location.
More From GOBankingRates
