Aftermarket or OEM Wheel Bearings? Ford Focus?

Question

Hi,

I'm planning on replacing the rear wheel bearings on my '99 Ford Focus 1.6 lx Hatchback.

Question is, should i pay extra for Ford Parts? Or do you think aftermarket are ok?

Answer 1

its 8yrs old, buy patent parts... bearings are made to an engineering standard... why pay lots more to have some fool at a ford dealership serve you and treat you with contempt...

Answer 2

I don't know if this helps. But there was a campaign released by FoMoCo in North America back in around 2001, for all 2000-2001 model year Focus' to have the rear wheel bearings replaced as well as installation of seals to reduce the likelihood of water intrusion causing bearing failure. There have also been "stories" of crackling, or ratcheting noises occuring in numerous different vehicles, after wheel bearing replacements with aftermarket parts that resulted in replacement with the OEM units in the end. The choice is yours. But hopefully the information I've provided is food for thought that may help you, in what you decide. You may want check your local Ford dealer to see if there is an outstanding Field Service Action on your vehicle, but I doubt it, due to its age.

Answer 3

I usaully try to use OEM parts but a good quality aftermarket part is usually cheaper but not always. call around and price check. OEM parts are coming down in price. all bearings are made by only a couple of companies for all manurfacturer's so going with a name brand like Timpken is alright.

Answer 4

Aftermarket parts are fine but stay with quality named parts and don't just look at the price.

Answer 5

After market is fine. The only difference is the price.

Answer 6

Aftermarket are ok, and cot a lot less.

Answer 7

Since ford uses the cheapest components, why shouldn't you?

Answer 8

I like to keep it all OEM, but that's just me.