aftermarket parts for x5
 

what's your opinion on purchasing aftermarket parts rather than genuine bmw parts for things like brake rotors, ball joints, brake pads, control arms, control arms, mirrors, and etc...


anyone every done this and how's it working out?

what are the experts and professionals' opinions on purchasing aftermarket parts???

I can second that question, I am getting shakes up front on my 01 X5 4.4 with 145K miles on it.

Original all the way

For a car like a BMW, or any luxury car, I'd go OEM. But then again thats depending on what your buying.

Depends on the manufacturer and part really but there are aftermarket parts that are better than OEM. For instance, Powerflex manufacturers a control arm bushing that is made of polyurethane to prevent breaking down over time.

I agree with this statement.

I would stick with OEM for major items like control arms, tie rods and so on, but there is nothing wrong with going aftermarket for normal wear items like brake rotors, pads, exhaust, etc. as long as you buy good quality products. I replaced OEM pads and rotors with Centric rotors (which have black powder coated hubs to prevent ugly rusting) and Axxis pads and so far feels the same and the black hubs look better. If you do go aftermarket, just be sure to do some research. There are aftermarket companies who do actually make a better product than OEM, but most don't.

:iagree:

Just to add my .02, here's some of the things I opted to use aftermarket parts instead of OEM:

Front and Rear Brake Pads - Axxis Ultimate
AC and Serpentine Belts - ContiTech
Idler and Tensioner Pullies - IRA/Rueville
Valve Cover Gasket Kit - Victor Reinz

BMW does not manufacture most of their replacement parts. They source out to companies that make parts for automobiles and have them make it to their specifications. For instance, Contitech is the belt maker for BMW, so the belts I bought would be of comparable contruction. Why would you pay more for the near same exact thing?;)