Toyota OEM Parts Price Warning

In past articles we’ve learned that when it comes to the maintenance and repair of your beloved Toyota model you should always stick with OEM and almost never go with non-OEM parts. But is this advice too preachy? If not wrong?!

Sometimes Non-OEM is Fine Both Practically and Economically

That was the question in a recent Toyota Maintenance YouTube channel episode where the host warns viewers that there will be sticker shock over your vehicle’s shocks with some models that just might make you want to reconsider strictly adhering on OEM-only parts replacement.

Related article: The One Toyota Part You Do Not Want Replaced Because There is an Easy Fix

The example provided is a 2013 highlander with over 200,000 miles that has one failed front strut. However, it will actually require the replacement of both since there are so many miles on the vehicle. In other words, the repair will be twice the amount you might be quoted over the phone if the service representative does not consider that both struts should be replaced.

Unfortunately for the owner, this will be a big item replacement bill as the host points to the following considerations some Toyota owners need to know when told their vehicle needs strut replacement:

• When looking at a failed strut you need to be clear with the mechanic whether they are talking about a single shock absorber within the strut assembly or the whole assembly.
• Replacing just the shock absorber is cheaper; however, it is more likely that you will need to go for the entire strut assembly as it possesses multiple components that wear out. Remember, you will be paying for two strut assemblies.
• Believe it or not, the strut assembly does not come as a packaged assembly. Rather, the components are piece-meal priced and then assembled into a complete strut by a mechanic.
• The cost of two OEM Toyota struts replaced (including labor) is going to come around $1,500.
• The cost of a popular brand of a pair of non-OEM struts is $600. Plus, the labor charge will be significantly less since the non-OEM struts come already assembled.

Follow along with the host to see why you might want to reconsider going OEM in this case with your Toyota. Plus, be sure to follow the video’s comments as other Toyota owners discuss what non-OEM brands they have used that have worked fine for them and saved them a lot of money.

Related article: Toyota Hybrid Owner Experience with an Aftermarket Hybrid Battery

Toyota Highlander Front Struts are How Much?

For additional OEM versus non-OEM related articles, here are three useful ones for your consideration:

• Toyota Maintenance Non-OEM Parts Warning
• Junk Parts from China Warning by Toyota Mechanic
• Avoid This High-Performance Parts Scam on Your Toyota

Timothy Boyer is an automotive reporter based in Cincinnati. Experienced with early car restorations, he regularly restores older vehicles with engine modifications for improved performance. Follow Tim on Twitter at @TimBoyerWrites  and Facebook for daily news and topics related to new and used cars and trucks.

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