OEM or Aftermarket?

[Corbett]

Choices for replacement parts are beginning to get confusing.

The aftermarket for some parts are easily of better quality and/or value than OEM parts, like spark plugs, filters and struts. But some aftermarket parts are cheaper, lesser parts not worth the savings.

I picked up a lug nut at my local auto parts store, but the part was not as hefty or durable as the Toyota part. I bought the more costly Toyota part just for peace of mind.

I had unwittingly let Jiffy Lube put in new wiper blades in my car a few years ago and they were crap. To make matters worse, they took away the OEM blade holder without telling me. Rather than take my chances with other aftermarket assemblies, I bought a new set of OEM wiper assemblies. (I had to pay $30+ for new OEM assemblies instead of just $5 for new blades because of Jiffy Lube's sleight of hand. Damn them to hell! :evil: )

I also have a set of aftermarket radiator hoses that I'm ready to install, but I have no idea if they're as good as OEM.

Are there any guidelines on when to stick with OEM parts?

[Flashmn]

Just go with your gut feeling I tend to buy OEM stuff for everything CRUCIAL...

[goodcookiedrift]

you do know, that the rule of thumb is that NOTHING is better than OEM....especially with toyotas.

vary rarely are after market parts better than OEM in terms of reliability, construction and durability.

performance parts now can enhance a car thats is being built to ENHANCE power....but when it comes to the durability and functionality of parts....stick with OEM.

nick

[jmschoep]

Rule of thumb when it come to aftermarket parts, cheap fixes, gimicks, and miracle fluids (Prolong, and stuff like that),

If it's so great, and so cheap and does everything it says it will, why doesn't the OEM use it?

-Cause it sucks!

[Spud]

In my experience it suits you to buy original parts-especially with Toyotas.Ive bought my share of aftermarket parts and have been dissatisfied with most of them.Its more expensive but in the long run its worth it.Remember,part of the "fun" of owning a car is that youre going to spend money on it whether you drive it or not.You cant possibly not spend any money on it.thats just how it is.Ive recently just realised,after tranny problems,that my local dealer is the best place for me to have my car looked at.Yes it costed me a lot of money but I feel completely satisfied with the work done.You do in fact get what you pay for.