The old addage, you get what you pay for, is true for most manufactured goods. I always tell folks to buy OEM for critical parts and buy what looks good for non critical. Suspension, drivetrain, and electrical sensors are critical.

There are "cheap" dealerships like Tasca in RI, 10% over cost. I also heard that a Houston area dealer does the same thing. FCP will also sell OEM, but not that much cheaper than your local ripoff dealer.

I do NOT buy OEM front brake pads, nor rotors. OEM front pads are too dusty and rotors are easy to replace. If you find an aftermarket product that is better than OEM, stick with it.

The Far East companies do not have good quality control and the companies that import them to the rest of the world are not interested in quality, just money. Items made in Japan are now quality items, unlike what they used to sell before the 1980's. Let's hope China will follow suit.

Klaus
--
Always willing to listen, just not able to take direction.