Originally Posted by
Robmacca
Guys....
............................. How does one know which one to buy when the prices vary that much and some of the cheaper brands also sell the more expensive ones as well..
..............................I'm after people's comments with where did they source their MAF from and approximate prices and how have they found them?
There are basically three 'levels' of quality in replacement parts 1/. Genuine or OE (original equipment), as the name suggests the same bit used in the original manufacture and priced and packaged accordingly. Usually best quality and the most expensive option with 'peace of mind purchase'. 2/. OEM (original equipment manufacturer), the same component as manufactured in 1/. by the same suppliers (to eg. Land Rover) but doesn't come in a box with a green oval, ie. same quality without the badge. 
Generally cheaper than OE for the same quality. 3/. After Market, this segment covers all other 'copy' components and can be from the very good or even better than original ie. Superior Engineering products or some absolute cheapy crap from Ali Express that can be built to no standard what so ever and priced accordingly. 
The much maligned Britpart is a good example of 'after market', they are a company that buys components from various sources and re packages them for the market much the same as Repco does here in Australia. It's a bit like Forrest Gumps box of chocolates, a bit of a lucky dip to see if you've got a good one. Sometimes Britpart components are quality OEM product, but often they are not.
From a practical viewpoint, IMO, if you're fixing a car to sell then buy after market, if it's a keeper then buy OEM. If you're nervous about quality and can afford it go genuine.
Deano
66 SIIA SWB .......73 SIII LWB diesel wgn
86 RR 'classic'......99 Range Rover P38a
94 Defender 110..95 Defender 130 Ute
96 D1 300TDi.......99 D2 TD5 (current)
04 D2a Td5..........02 Disco 2 V8
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