gemalter

This is a follow up to my earlier post about the feasibility of replacing parts to my 2003 GS with 205,000 miles. With the car this old, and with the mileage, I know I won't get much for it when I eventually replace the car in a few years. I now drive approximately 6,000 miles/year. With this in mind, would I see an appreciable savings if I use good (as opposed to rock-bottom priced) after-market parts rather than OEM? For those not familiar with my earlier thread, what has been recommended by two Auto Club certified garages to replace are 1) valve cover gasket; 2) front lower control arms; 3) rear knuckle bushings; and 4) hood struts. I will be using an Auto Club of Northern California certified garage, as I'm not mechanically inclined. Thank you for reading this.

captainva

iTrader: (1)

I replaced the valve cover gasket with Fel-Pro and haven't had issues. Overall I think it depends on what the part you're looking to replace is for OEM vs aftermarket

kevin3344

My car has been dealer serviced since new so most of the time I don't have a choice they always use OEM...and as you know are expensive. However, in some cases I will have my indy do the work. They are familiar with the 2GS and use OEM or equivalent parts. Most of the time for DIY stuff like wiper blades I'll order the parts from LParts.com or other Lexus shop. So I try and use OEM parts where possible.

The only time I've had an issue was when I took my car to Pep Boys and they replaced my serpentine belt with a "Lexus/Toyota equivalent" belt which *should* have been fine but that thing made noise like crazy. Finally I took it to the dealer and they replaced it with a Lexus OEM belt and the sound went away immediately.

RamAirRckt

I try to use as much OEM parts, but sometimes the pocketbook says not to, or I feel the aftermarket parts are better (brake pads for instance)

There are many high quality brands, but many junk brands too....

I look for Aisin, Denso, Beck Arnley (they buy excess OEM stock and rebox and resell), NGK.

mate01

For brake pads can't go wrong with Akebono.

RamAirRckt

+1
Right now I am using the Power Stop Z23's. Pretty good pad, have a good feel and good bite.

Mr Jokster

iTrader: (8)

Depends on what part it is... For the most part, theres nothing wrong with aftermarket. However, if you don't know how to decipher the difference from a good aftermarket and a bad... stick with OEM.

There actually are aftermarket parts that are less expensive than OEM and are actually better. Its all about research and study.