2002 BMW 330 Front axles left and right

2002 BMW 330
60,000 MILES • 6 CYL • 4WD • AUTOMATIC
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IRINA
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Hi,
I need to replace both front axles. There are different parts that one can buy - Opparts, FEQ, Gkn Loebro... The difference in price is huge. I believe that GKN parts are made in Germany and are original OEM parts. The rest of the parts are a lot cheeper and made in Asia. My question is does it make sense to pay more to get GKN part? What is the difference?
Thanks for your help,
Irina
Feb 15, 2010 at 3:55 PM
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MERLIN2021
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A lot of replacement axles are remanufactured, and as long as you buy ones with a lifetime warranty, go with the cheaper price, if no warranty, and you are keeping the car, get the better ones.
Feb 15, 2010 at 4:00 PM
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IRINA
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Thanks for such a prompt reply. The price for OPparts or feq axles run about $85 each and they are made in China or India. The price for the same axle made by GKN is about $340. So for two axles the difference in price in about $500. I am just wondering if paying that much more is worth it. All parts are brand new and there is warranty for a year on all of them. Would GKN part last longer?
Thanks,
Irina
Feb 16, 2010 at 9:32 AM
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MERLIN2021
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OEM parts are usually better quality. If you are keeping the car, You must weigh how many times you want to replace the axles? If money isnt a problem for you, and you are keeping the car go with quality over cost.
Feb 16, 2010 at 3:44 PM
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IRINA
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Thanks for your advice. I will follow it. is the four weel alignment needed after the axle is replaced
Irina
Feb 16, 2010 at 5:33 PM
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DOCHAGERTY
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Merlins advice is right on the money. I would consider alignment if tire wear is an issue, not for axle replacement alone.
Feb 17, 2010 at 8:13 AM