Although less globally renowned than other South Korean car brands like Hyundai and Kia, Ssangyong is the oldest automobile manufacturer in South Korea and produces high-quality vehicles. Their affordable, reliable, and practical cars make them an excellent choice for car buyers prioritizing utility over style.

Although Ssangyong vehicles are generally reliable and experience few part failures, you'll inevitably need to purchase specific parts for your car. As you add more kilometers to your vehicle, the chances of parts failing increase, especially if you need to take better care of it. As you use them, some parts are also subject to higher levels of wear and tear and will need to be replaced or topped up.

As a Ssangyong owner, it's crucial that you know the options available to you and the characteristics of Ssangyong parts so you can make the best purchase decisions.

Sourcing Ssangyong Parts (OEM vs. Aftermarket)

With all the available sources and options, it's easy to get overwhelmed while doing auto parts shopping. There are two main categories of car parts: OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts, which are the original parts used by car manufacturers, and "Aftermarket" parts, which are made by third-party manufacturers but are still compatible with the vehicle.

Regarding auto parts, "Original" is more than a nominal term. OEM parts have been manufactured to the high standards Ssangyong set out and are backed by a more extended warranty. On the other hand, it is worth noting that aftermarket parts are typically less expensive and offer a wider variety of designs and customizations, depending on the type of part needed.

If your goal is to return your Ssangyong to its original performance level, we recommend investing in OEM parts. Because of the more stringent levels of manufacturing, you'll likely get more use out of an OEM replacement. Furthermore, not only are aftermarket parts not covered by Ssangyong's warranty, but they could also void your Ssangyong's warranty and damage your vehicle when installed. Also, note that just because they aren't "original" doesn't mean that aftermarket parts are the cheaper option. Thus, you may receive an inferior part at a higher cost if you go with the aftermarket.

What Are the Most Important Parts of Your Ssangyong?

Be vigilant with the following parts as they directly affect the safety and performance of your vehicle. It's best to address them early to ensure that any issues with these parts don't become bigger and more costly.

Engine

The engine is its primary power source, burning fuel to produce the mechanical energy to drive your Ssangyong. It can be as expensive as it is complicated, with repairs being notorious for their exceptionally high cost due to the need for replacement parts and specialized staffing. Older Ssangyongs utilized Mercedes Benz engines, though their machines are now self-developed and produced. Some engine issues common to newer Ssangyongs (2013 onwards) are loss of acceleration due to a malfunctioning turbocharger, a clogged air intake system, or a faulty fuel injector, and rough idle or stalling caused by a faulty idle air control valve, malfunctioning fuel pump, or a clogged air filter. Check if your faulty Ssangyong engine can get away with minor repairs to avoid a larger bill.

Transmission

For both the automatic and manual, the transmission of your Ssangyong transfers power from the engine to the wheels while using gear ratios to keep the engine in its power band, allowing it to run efficiently. The transmission sees constant usage and, consequently, high wear and tear. Like the engine, repairing this complicated equipment can be more than buying a replacement.

There are reports about Ssangyongs from 2013 onwards of vibrations or shudders when shifting gears — a problem due to worn out or damaged transmission mounts or a defective torque converter. Proper transmission servicing can help to prevent this and other transmission issues.

Lights

Your lights help you see, be seen, and convey your driving intentions. Ensure you replace damaged lights or blown bulbs to ensure your road safety.

Brakes

The brakes on your Ssangyong enable you to consistently slow your vehicle down or bring it to a safe and complete stop. Brake parts such as pads and rotors wear down faster than others and must be replaced regularly. In contrast, parts like the master cylinder, calipers, and wheel cylinders could develop leaks and cause poor braking. You can purchase most of these parts individually if ever the need arises.

Battery

The battery is responsible for making your Ssangyong start. You must watch for signs of a failing battery to ensure your Ssangyong starts smoothly. Look for slow engine cranking and a Battery/Charging warning light that may indicate your battery is nearing the end of its life.

Which Ssangyong Parts Wear Out the Fastest?

Consumables

The parts which wear or run out the fastest in your Ssangyong are your "consumables", namely, engine oil, coolant, nuts and bolts, oil filters, brake pads, spark plugs, and wiper blades, with tires and batteries possibly falling under the same category by some definitions.

Know the warning signs that signal these parts are at low levels or worn down since you wouldn't want to operate your Ssangyong with pieces that have lost their functionality.

Water Pump

Perpetually pumping coolant from the radiator to the engine to flush heat away from the engine's various parts, the water pump gets no time for a breather. The water pump has a lifespan of around 97,000 km.

Suspension

How smooth the roads you drive on are, the weight of the loads carried by your Ssangyong and how frequently you load your vehicle, and your overall mileage all factor into the lifespan of its suspension.

If you have taken good care of your suspension, it can last up to ten years. However, if it has been heavily used and not well-maintained, it may only last eight to five years. If you notice a rough ride in your Ssangyong, it may indicate a faulty suspension.

Are Ssangyong Parts Expensive?

Ssangyong parts are less expensive than those of European brands, but due to their smaller global presence, they can be in short supply and harder to source. Online auto part retailers like BE FORWARD Auto Parts can make your life easier, especially if there are no Ssangyong part distributors in your area.

Where to Buy Genuine Ssangyong Parts Online

You can shop for new OEM parts at authorized Ssangyong dealers and OEM part retailers in your country. If there aren't any available, and if you're looking for more significant savings, choose a second-hand OEM part available at great prices here with BE FORWARD Auto Parts.