How Much Does it Cost to Replace a Car Hood? [2023 Guide]

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A hood is the only protection layer for your car engine. So, this is supposed to be very strong and durable. It is also the most visual part of a car. A hood is exposed to many threats on the road. Such as accidents, damage from objects on the road, etc.

So, having a strong, durable hood is necessary. Also, a good-looking hood will tone up the looks of your car. A car hood is also known as a “car bonnet” in British English.

Car hoods are typically replaced when damaged. Some people just replace their existing car hood with a new and more durable one. Some replace it just to change the looks. Regardless of the reason, I’ll guide you through every aspect of replacing your car hood in this article.

how much does it cost to replace a car hood
How Much Does it Cost to Replace a Car Hood

How Much Does it Cost to Replace a Car Hood?

Professional hood replacement will cost you from $700 to $2,000 easily. This is an average estimation for the current years. The actual cost will vary according to your decisions. Some people want to get the OEM (original parts) for their cars. This, of course, is a costlier option than the others.

According to the Auto Market report in 2023, getting an OEM will cost $100 to $2,500 on average. You can reduce the costs more if you choose to do the replacement work yourself. This way you’ll only have to pay the hood price. The average hood prices range from $125 to $375.

If you want to replace your hood in the cheapest way, you can even do it for under $75.  The type of hood you choose for your car is also going to affect the cost significantly. People also have luxurious tastes. You can also get hoods for as much as $10,000.

This is a little heads-up for the challenges you might face in your decision-making.

Car Hood Replacement Cost Summary

Now, we will go further and break down the cost factors that are relevant to the process. Hopefully, this will help you to understand the situation you’re in and make smart financial decisions.

Cost TypePrice Range
Steel Hood$50-$350
DIY Cost$125-$375
Aluminum Hood$100-$500
Fiberglass Hood$60-$4,900
Professional Replacement$700-$2,000
Carbon Fiber Hood$160-$10,500

Four Types of Hoods and How Much They Cost in 2023

A lot of different hoods are available now in the market. Hoods vary in design, material, etc. The type of material used in making the hoods helps us to distinguish the hoods from one another.

This information also gives us an overall idea about the hood quality. Here are the different types of hoods and their costs:

1. Aluminum Hoods 

Aluminum is widely used in modern days. From planes to cars, the use of aluminum is widespread. Due to its increased durability than steel and other metals, this has gained a special attraction of engineers worldwide.

Aluminum is less prone to rust. It also competes with other metals in terms of strength. Aluminum is used to make car hoods.

Aluminum hoods have an affordable cost range. This also offers you quality parts for your car. You have to spend $100 to $500 to buy an aluminum car hood. The cost can increase with your choice of brands and designs.

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2. Fiberglass

Fiberglass is made of molten glass. This is a material that is widely used in making household products. This is very durable and strong. This is the reason it is quite expensive as well. Fiberglass hoods are fine in design. They bring a touch of elegance to the looks of your car.

Fiberglass is also used as a soundproofing material all over the world. So, this is an extra benefit you can keep in mind if you are thinking about buying fiberglass hoods.

In 2023, fiberglass hoods range from $60 to $4,900. They offer a variety of price ranges depending on quality and design. Of course, the brand name you choose will also be a major factor.

Related: How Much Does it Cost to Repair an Oil Leak?

3. Carbon Fiber

This is the most expensive material used in the hood making. Car fiber is also known as graphite fiber. Carbon fiber is stronger than many other metals. According to some estimates in 2022, carbon fiber can hold five times more weight than steel.

So, this is a salivating option for the engineers. Carbon fibers are used to make hoods to give them a classy matte finish. Most people get carbon fiber to bring an aggressive look to their cars.

Getting a carbon fiber hood will cost you a good amount of money. You can spend as much as $10,500 to buy a carbon fiber hood. There are more affordable options starting from $160. But I recommend getting the best quality and design even if you have to spend extra money.

Related: How Much Does it Usually Cost to Replace a Bumper?

4. Steel  

Steel is the most known material to people. This is a good option. But considering the other options and the associated costs, it will be clever for you to choose from the other ones.

A steel hood will cost you $50 to $350 easily in recent years. The cost will depend on your car model and year. The availability is also a matter of concern. Some older model parts are not easily available. You can always look for after-market solutions.

When buying from after-market, make sure to see the standards. You can find all the information about after-market standards here.

Related: How Much Does it Cost to Repair a Small Scratch on a Car?

Which Hood will be the Best Choice in 2023?

The best choice for you will be to buy a hood that fulfills your financial and quality requirements. Also, it has to be something that you genuinely like about your car. Sometimes, buying an expensive hood will not give you as much pleasure as an after-market hood.

It is simply because you didn’t choose the one you liked for your car. This is the first piece of advice, get something that you genuinely like. If you have the extra money, and you want to bring an aggressive, sporty look to your car, get a carbon fiber hood. Running a little low on money? Just go for aluminum hoods.

You might be someone who is not into all this car stuff. You just want to buy something that gives your car a sophisticated look. If so, go for the OEM part. This will be the best option for you.

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Aluminum Hoods vs Steel Hoods

Steel has been used for centuries. Aluminum replaced steel for its various benefits. Aluminum is lighter than steel. Also, it is more durable. Aluminum can survive more extreme conditions than steel.

Between the two, aluminum is a whole lot better. To get a better scientific understanding of the difference between aluminum and steel, read this guide.

Other Types of Hoods You Can Consider in 2023

Apart from the material-based classifications, there can be other types of hoods too. They are listed below,

  • Factory Stock Hood: This is the hood that comes with your car when you buy it. The hood that comes with the car from the factory is a stock hood.
  • Cowl Hood: Cowl hoods are designed for high-performance cars. These hoods have a cowl induction system that lets the air flow directly to the combustion chambers.
  • Shaker Scoop: Shaker hoods are also designed for high-speed performance. The design helps high-pressure air to flow into the engine throttle plate. This results in increased speed.
  • After-market Hoods: The hoods available in the after-market are in this category.

Related: How Much Does it Cost to Paint Rims Matte Black?

What is the Cheapest Way to Replace a Hood?

This is something you can do even if you have the money to get a new hood. If you don’t have the money, this can be your best with your luck.

Go to the nearest junkyard you know. You will find different types of cars there. Sometimes, you might just find the right one for your car. These junkyards often have old cars that are not available. Some are just too expensive now. The parts of these cars are often in good condition.

You can go to as many junkyards as possible and look for a hood that can be used after reconditioning. Sometimes you might find great quality hoods as well.

You will have to do minor repair and paint jobs in this way. But the overall cost will be much less than getting a new one.  

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Hood Repair and Paint Job Cost

To repair minor dents and small issues you will have to spend around $250. You will have to take care of these small issues before starting your paint job. Once you’ve done that, you can proceed to paint.

Painting the car hood will cost you around $200 in 2022. You can choose exclusive graphics for your hood. This will cost you even more. I recommend visiting a paint shop to maintain paint quality.

How to Replace a Car Hood? A Simple Guide for DIY

Here is a step-by-step guide on how you can replace your car hood easily at home:

  • Step 1: Open the hood carefully and place the prop rod upright.
  • Step 2: Detach the windshield washer nozzle from the hood. (If connected)
  • Step 3: Remove the bolts from the hood hinge and remove the hood. Get someone to hold the bottom of the hood while removing it.
  • Step 4: Slowly remove the hood and place it outside carefully.
  • Step 5: Get the new hood and slowly place it in the hinge.
  • Step 6: Screw the hood with the hinge properly and put the prop rod upright again.
  • Step 7: Check the engine compartment properly. Make sure you didn’t leave anything there.

Related: How Much Does it Cost to Fix or Replace a Car Side Mirror?

Now I’m answering the most common questions that people asked most about (Car Hood Replacement): FAQ

How much does it cost to replace the hood release cable?

The cost of hood-release cable replacement ranges from $156 to $182. This includes the labor cost of replacing the release cable. The labor cost range is $35 to $121.

How much does a hood latch cost?

It will cost you $223 on average to get a hood latch replaced. The actual cost can range from $94 to $351. This will depend on your choice regarding the various aspects.

How much does hood hinges cost?

This is a difficult question to answer. The cost of a hood hinge can be from $20 to $300. So, you should go to an auto body part and get an idea yourself. That would be the best way.

How long does it take to replace a car hood?

It will take you 15 to 20 minutes at max to replace the hood yourself. You might be able to do it in less time if you hire a professional to do the job.

Can a hood be repaired?

Yes, a hood can be repaired. This depends on the damage that your hood has received. If the damage is too heavy, then the cost of repairing will be more than a new hood. In this situation, it won’t be necessary to repair your hood.

Is it hard to change the car hood?

This is a fairly easy job. You just have to follow some steps carefully and it will be done in a flash.

What tools do you need to replace a car hood?

There are certain tools that you need to replace your car hood. The tools are a ratchet set, socket wrenches, and a car owner’s manual.

You also need someone to help you with the work. A car hood Is heavy. So, to avoid damage during replacement, you need someone to lend you a hand.

Final Cost Analysis of Car Hood Replacement 2023

Hopefully, you will be able to find some unique ideas to help you reduce the costs of replacing your hood. Furthermore, we are happy to discuss ways to reduce the cost of replacing your car hood.

Last but not least. Feel free to share your ideas, thoughts, and car hood installation process in the comment section.

Here are some other related cost guides on “Automobiles” you may find interesting:

How Much Does it Cost to Paint a Rear Bumper Cover?
How Much Does it Cost to Change a Headlight Bulb?
How Much Does it Cost to Get a Speedometer Fixed?
How Much Does it Cost to Repair a Gas Gauge?
How Much Does it Cost to Install a USB Port in Your Car?

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