Taillight replacement: OEM vs. Aftermarket

Managed to bust my left taillight (2017 TRD Sport) recently and looking to replace it. I'm seeing OEM replacements for around $200, while aftermarket replacements range from $65 to $105 from a variety of vendors. Questions:
> Are aftermarket replacements generally as good as OEM?
> Is it the same assembly regardless of model (TRD Sport / OR; SR; etc.)?
> Are there any online vendors of aftermarket parts to avoid?
> Anything else to consider relative to the purchase?
> Are there any certifications for aftermarket parts that imparts a "seal of approval (quality)"?
> Would you go one way or the other if it were your truck? Why?

I'm typically a value shopper, but don't mind spending more if there's a good reason.

Assume that installation is the 'plug and play' type and I'll be able to find a YouTube 'how to' video.

Thanks for your responses.

 

OEM will always be better and probably your best $ buy in the long run.
Same assembly installation

 

OEM. Don't put fake stuff on your truck.

G.

 

But why OEM assuming all (OEM and aftermarket) have similar assembly? There's up to $130 in savings going aftermarket.

BTW, what is the "bezel" in a taillight assembly? Is it the outer lens component?

 

Your factory unit is not cheap chinese shit, the aftermarket is.

 

OEM is your best bet. So many people on here are replacing their OEM sets with pro that you’d probably be able to pick up an OEM one on the cheap. Try putting a post out in your region or check the bst section.

 

OEM is built to a better standard and will likely outlive your aftermarket in terms of performance. I chose aftermarket myself because I wanted a different look, and risk of it failing earlier is a risk I'm willing to take. It's a matter of priority. Do you care more about the style? Or the reliability and build quality?

As far as vendors, I would stick with the known/popular ones or buy through some of the Tacoma-centric aftermarket websites.

 

Here’s a set

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/fs-tail-lights-oem-trd-or.684289/

 

I think I seen a set for $100.

Edit found it

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/2018-tail-lights-100-obo.685561/

 

I've had 2 OEM tail lights replaced due to manufacture defects. I switched them out for a set of TRD Pro taillights (aftermarket) and they are doing alright

 

Check Facebook Market and CL, I just purchased OEM taillights for my TRD OR for $50.

 

Thanks to all who replied. I bought a set of slightly used taillights off one of our fellow members this afternoon. Only needed one (L hand) but won't hurt to have the R hand in reserve for the next "incident". Unless it's the L hand again.

 

I know a few people who have ended up with condensation in their after market lights. As other have said I'd look for some used OEM.

 

Guess I'm guilty of buying the "cheap chinese shit." I bought my after markets from Tacomabeast.com over a year ago, and I've had zero issues so far. Of course saying that, something will probably crop up this weekend (knowing my luck). Honestly, I prefer the ones I have now vs. OEM. But that's just a preference. It's not for everyone.

As my mom would say, that's why there is chocolate and vanilla.

 

You right though, it’s just like Tacoma’s. Not everyone has frame issues, or paint issues or loose u bolts. Not everyone is gonna have issues with aftermarket parts.

 

Busted one of mine and bought 2 depo pro taillights. No issues for over a year.

 

oem all day.