[jkb]

I have a couple of parts I need to buy and was wondering if OEM parts were the way to go for these items, or if I should just go with the less expensive aftermarket retailers. Here's what I need:

Spark Plugs and wires
Starter
Brake Pads

Nissan OEM parts have always treated me well, but they are expensive. Is the quality of the Nissan plug wires (for example) that much much better than the one's you buy at Auto Zone or O'reilly?

 

[MESOGLEA]

For consumables like the plugs, wires (don't forget a new distributor cap) and pads I would say AutoZone.
Shop around for the best price on a new starter.

 

[domoMKIV]

I wouldn't buy that stuff from Nissan. Not worth the cost.

 

[chaz]

good quality name brand parts with a warrenty will suit me fine,auto zone,pep boys or whatever or who has it and for how much.
dealerships make too much money now,i just cant see myself giving them anymore

 

[wdoyle0447]

Sometimes the aftermarket parts are made by the same manufacturer as OEM. Ex. I bought a new O2 sensor at Autozone. It was made by Bosch. The OEM one I removed was also made by Bosch but had the extra Nissan emblem stamped under the Bosch name. OEM was over twice the price as Autozone.

I try to think of car manufacturers as integrators of other people's parts....except the major design elements.

 

[Mathster]

there is an old man I used to take my electrics to that would rebuild it. He has passed away, but one of his employees has taken over and putting forth the effort. If you have someone like this, that is your best bet for starter, alternators, etc.
Starters and alternators have wear components that are usually all that need replaced, sometimes, its electronics but thats more from water intrusion.