Originally Posted by
avguy
I'll start by saying I agree 100% with that idea. In fact, I would pay top $ for these parts, if I could be SURE they were as good or better than the original OEM factory parts. But I've read in a number of forums and other websites that "replacement" OEM auto parts are typically not made by the same company and in the same country as the assembly-line parts. The auto makers have a lot at stake with original parts, because they have recall risks, along with image issues caused by systemic non-recall problems. So that being said, does anyone really know FOR SURE that the more expensive parts for this job are better than others? Do any of these guys really care how good the quality of my replacement idler pulley is? Is there any organization or web group keeping track of the durability of replacement parts?
I always feel like buying parts (in general) is a crap shoot. If anyone has better insight on this, please jump right in!