The cost of replacement parts for SUVs has risen faster over the last four years than for other car types, according to Epyx.
The software firm has based the finding on data from its 1link Service Network platform, used by fleets running more than four million vehicles between them.
It says the average cost of brake discs and pads for SUVs has risen by 37% since 2020, compared with 22% for hatchbacks and 20% for saloons. For pollen filters, SUV prices are up by 48%, against 41% for hatchbacks and 35% for saloons, while for windscreen wiper blades, SUVs have seen a 25% increase, against 22% for saloons and 19% for hatchbacks.
However, when the price of spark plugs is considered, it is hatchbacks that have seen the biggest increase, with a 37% rise versus 29% for saloons and SUVs.
Epyx COO Tim Meadows said: “Recently, we released data showing how prices had increased across our entire basket of parts. Now, with these new numbers, we’re providing insight into how different types of fleet vehicles have been affected.
“They show SUVs have generally been hit harder by parts price increases than any other type of company car. Since 2020, inflation has risen by around 22% but the increases seen in the three categories where SUVs have seen the biggest jumps are well above this figure.”
Meadows said it was difficult to know why this was the case.
He added: “The disruption that has seen parts prices increase rapidly in recent years – from the effects of the pandemic through to the war in Ukraine – have been unpredictable and erratic, and it could just be that price pressures have randomly landed on SUVs, rather than it being any kind of intentional policy from manufacturers.
“What it does undoubtedly mean is that businesses operating large numbers of SUVs should keep a close watch on their parts spending. While it is not possible to stop prices rising, it is still very viable to find the best value for your fleet, using technology of the type we offer through 1link Service Network.”
