GDV reports rising auto spare part prices outpace inflation

The German Insurance Association (GDV) reports that automobile spare part prices are rising significantly faster than general inflation. Between August 2025 and August 2026, prices increased by more than 4 percent. Over a ten-year period since 2016, the average annual increase for spare parts has been 5.9 percent, compared to an average inflation rate of 2.8 percent.

GDV Managing Director Jörg Asmussen noted that some specific components, such as rear side panels, front doors, and trunk lids, have nearly doubled in price over the last decade. This trend has led to higher repair costs and increased claims expenses for insurers, which in some cases have exceeded premium income, necessitating premium adjustments.

A primary driver identified by the GDV is design protection laws. These laws allow manufacturers to protect the visual appearance of vehicles and visible parts like fenders and mirrors, which limits the ability of independent manufacturers to produce visually identical, lower-cost alternatives. A planned EU reform aims to address this by exempting certain parts from design protection if they are intended solely for repair purposes.