OEM Parts Manufacturers - Best Quality?

we350z · #1 11-30-2009, 12:46 PM

Ordering a new water pump for my 2000 X5 4.4i - I noticed that there are multiple manufacturers that make or have made parts for BMW. Anyone know more about this? Did a contract end sometime in early 2000's or something and BMW switched? Which is the best to get?

Graf
Meyle

Am I missing others?

--Thanks

Bimmer Ese · #2 11-30-2009, 01:11 PM

Have Graf water pumps in both Bimmers. Been good so far.

Daniel

PSUEng · #3 11-30-2009, 03:26 PM

Automaker's often times dual source components to keep prices competitive. Sometimes they are built to the same specs but the production processes aren't always the same--some are better than others. That said, sure, some brands may be produced better than others. But most automakers rarely actually produce components themselves. I've worked at Honda and Toyota, and seen many like components from different suppliers be very different with respect to quality.

I didn't really answer your question...just validated it.

killcrap · #4 11-30-2009, 08:50 PM

go to your dealer, and purchase a OEM one from the parts department. it has a lifetime warranty, after 2 years, you pay the labor to replace it, or take it out and exchange it for a replacement. dont expect water pumps to last forever, the 4.4 has a heavy load especially on belt driven accessories.

masterjohnson · #5 03-18-2011, 04:43 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by killcrap

go to your dealer, and purchase a bmw oem parts one from the parts department. it has a lifetime warranty, after 2 years, you pay the labor to replace it, or take it out and exchange it for a replacement. dont expect water pumps to last forever, the 4.4 has a heavy load especially on belt driven accessories.

nice advice! i will do that! thanks buddy! if ever you are still active or not. sorry for digging up. really helpful. i should be a prime example of using search button a lot than creating a new thread again with the same concern.

we350z · #6 11-30-2009, 10:28 PM

Well I was looking at these, which sparked my question:

BMW Water Pump E39 540 E38 740 E53 X5 Z8 2661:eBay Motors (item 350279747395 end time Dec-15-09 16:26:06 PST)

Your Parts Search Returned 1 Part(s)

Why would I pay retail price at the stealer plus arnie tax? Same warranty... Still gonna be on my back pulling the thing off if it breaks again.