OEM vs Aftermarket parts

I have a 2006 Tacoma that is getting it's frame replaced due to corrosion. Got a call from the dealer today saying I need to replace my condenser (I think he meant compressor based on the price). $1047 OEM vs. $599 aftermarket. New muffler - $550 OEM vs. $500 aftermarket. What's your opinion on OEM vs aftermarket sold by the Toyota dealership.

A side note....I want to replace my struts and shocks. I assumed that since they have to take the vehicle apart, there would be no additional labor. Now the dealership is telling me there is still some labor. Does this sound right? Thanks all.

 

Depends on what you mean by aftermarket. Is the compressor rebuilt aftermarket or brand x new? Who's after market muffler?

 

Some dealers charge for work outside of the frame replacement, like shocks. Some don't. That's between you and the dealer.

For HVAC items I'd go OEM. For the muffler, I wouldn't care.

 

For the muffler, check the classified section here, lots of people trying to get rid of slightly used ones. Saw one for free last week.

 

As far as the strut assembly, there should be no additional labor if they are installing a complete assembly, as they have to do that anyway. If you bring them a box with shocks/coils that need to be put together, they will likely charge you to assemble them. My dealer was going to charge me $300 to assemble mine.

 

After talking with a service rep, he said there was no real difference that he can see between the OEM condenser and aftermarket. Both have the same warranty. With the aftermarket, I can replace it almost twice for the cost of one OEM. My plan is to get a new truck within 5 years or so I'm taking a gamble on the aftermarket. I called another Toyota dealer in the area and asked for parts and labor for struts and shocks. The gave me a price of $1,200. My dealership is charging me $680 so it appears I really am saving on some labor.

Another side note. My dealership wants $280 to replace my front brakes and resurface the rotors. While my vehicles is over 9 years old, it only has 54,000 miles and the brakes have never been done before. I called a small local garage (with a good reputation) and he said he wouldn't bother resurfacing the rotors. He'd replace them. He said new rotors are actually better because they're made with carbon in them that helps reduce rust. He quoted lifetime brake pads and new rotors at $310. Thoughts on the OEM rotors vs. aftermarket?