mikebatman

I'm interested in general opinions and any insight on OEM vs aftermarket.
I've called Toyota and my general auto parts these are their prices for a few parts.
I will list Toyota price first

Drive belt 75.90, 42.75
Gas cap O-ring 26.00, new entire gas cap 9.35
Pcv valve 14.00, 4.99
Throttle body gasket 7.70, 5.00

If it's going to benefit my vehicle I will spend and go to Toyota.
I just wanted to consult with those of more experience before I go forward.
Thanks

Lavrishevo

iTrader: (1)

In general, oem is better on the parts you listed. Check out Sewell or Carson Lexus and use the forum discounts.

mikebatman

Well I registered on Sewell and I was initially excited however my shipping costs leave me with roughly the same prices. Even with the forum discount. And the dealer is only a ten minute drive.
However it's a great reference for parts and entire assembly needs.
I will definitely refer to that when necessary, thanks.

timmy0tool

iTrader: (7)

OEM generally fits better and seals better. i'm a stickler for OEM so i always go OEM down to the oil filter.

as for the parts you listed going generic wouldn't really hurt much. the only parts i would consider going OEM is the gas cap o ring and the throttle body gasket.

YoshiMan

When it comes to certain small things, it doesn;t matter in my opinion. I used to be 100% OEM parts, but when you get delayed 5 days on a job just waiting for a little gasket to come in, you eventually say "screw it" and start going local. I have always just cut new throttle body gaskets out of the bulk gaskey material.

For belts, i always do the Gates brand, as they are a Local Denver company which i trust and i have had zero problems with their stuff,.

However, on certain things, i agree there is ZERO substitute for OEM! Mechanical parts in particular, like the water pump, and idler pulleys and such.

akitomk3

iTrader: (2)

OEM all the way, but there are a few exceptions for me at the right time too. Like I can live with an aftermarket serpentine belt, but not an aftermarket cam sensor. However, if the price differences aren't much then stick with OEM.

PureDrifter

iTrader: (10)

it depends on the parts.

some things are available in equal or better quality from the aftermarket, goodyear gatorback drive belts, aisin waterpumps (oem manufacturer), denso O2 sensors, etc...