Valve Cover Gasket OEM or Auto Parts?

So I just got a quote to replace the valve cover gaskets on my 98 V6 Taco, it has a small and slow leak. They quoted me $288 at my local shop, which is a lot cheaper than i thought. Question is, should I request OEM gaskets for an extra $28 or is the Fisher Auto Parts gaskets just as good?

Sounds kind of obvious to go OEM now that I am reading this.

 

OEM always

 

OEM, I have no problem with aftermarket parts but for gaskets/seals I always go OEM since they aren't much more then aftermarket and since they lasted this long I figure the new OEM ones will last just as long.

 

By "local shop" I assume you mean independent repair shop.

I might want OEM as well, especially if I were going to keep the truck, but how would you really be able to tell an OEM valve cover gasket from after-market after the valve covers are back on? The shop is going to use whatever they can source quickly. VCGs for a 21 yr. old Tacoma will need to be ordered from a dealer and that will add to wait time.

Even if you took this older truck to a dealer, they would install an after-market VCG. Repair shops want to get vehicles in and out asap.

The only way you will know with certainty that you got an OEM VCG is to order from a dealer and install it yourself.

 

Curious what was total bill to have this job done? Hrs & parts...?