OEM vs Aftermarket parts?

[Cindy528e]

I'm trying to figure out whether it's better
to purchase new BMW 528e Radiator
with OEM or Aftermarket ? What's the
difference ? Which one is better
for my car 1988 BMW 528e ?

P.S. Little off topic here, I'm from Manassas area
I noticed lots of BMWs and pick-up trucks
around here though...

[OwnedbyDuncan]

Depends. Got a 130k mi out my OEm muffler and repalced it with an OEM one.
Prefer OEM rotors since I haven't found any after market rotors that last as long at big enough price difference. How long are planning on keeping your 528e?
If its for for a while go OEM. Some aftermarket radiators especially for E36's
are stronger and better built than the OEM part. Since I have ben dealing with same shop for 24 years I would trust their recommendation.

[Cindy528e]

Thanks for your feedback.
I intend to keep this car forever if possible
I just got new engine replaced running very good so far,
except the Radiator situation. I think that I've found
someone else who will replace the Radiator for me, but
I have to find/buy a new Radiator and bring it to
his shop as part of the deal/favor. This is very nice
to find a shop where you can trust for 24 years...
If you don't mind, which shop do you tend at ?

[OwnedbyDuncan]

Cindy,

Kraftwagen. However, the shop isn't taking new clients.

Dave

[schosports]

Sometimes aftermarket parts are good, even produced by the same company that is making them for BMW, BUT sometimes "you get what you pay for." If the original BMW part has lasted this long think how long the new one will last (but I'm biased, selling Original BMW Parts pays my bills)
Here's the BMW part numbers in case you need them.

manual trans 17-11-1-468-063, BMW list $305.00
automatic trans, w/trans cooler 17-11-1-468-064, BMW list $316.00