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

 

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

 

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.

 

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.

 

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.

 

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.

 

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...