OEM or Pattern Parts Poll???

Over the short time I've been here, I've seen a few people ask if OEM parts have been used for repairs when people have had on going problems with their vehicles.

Do you use pattern parts or will you only use OEM parts on your vehicle?

Also please state if you have your repairs carried out by a main dealer only, independant garage or its get your hands dirty time, please.




I"II get my hands dirty big time, but I am HGV mechanic by trade...its the computer software/interfaces I need now.

I tend to use a combination of both depending on what is being replaced. I always use genuine gaskets as I've had a few problems with patent ones in the past. I do most of the repairs myself unless I need some diagnostics or work carried out that I have no tools far, i.e. Air Con.

I think it really depends on the parts you're looking for. I have been quite surprised by LR at the cost of some items and now buy filters etc from them when doing routine services. Other trivial parts can require a mortgage

I am all for getting my hands dirty and saving a few quid on labour charges but will always look to compare prices / quality of parts before I buy

Dealer parts always - pays to buy them in the long run, they last longer.
If I need a garage to sort the Land Rover I go for an Independent (if I can find a decent one - that's getting harder) and I always buy the parts and have them fit them coz I've found in the past they are sometimes prone to fitting the other crappy parts on offer. The last Independent I used he was a member of the 4x4 network didn't use Land Rover parts even after I requested these be used - his excuse - they are every bit as good. Tried a different one after that, one who had ears!!