Like so many others, I have suffered the failure of the 'low speed resistor' in the radiator fan of my 2004 MCS. There is a tremendously wide range in the cost of the part. Local dealer claims a MSRP of $335, down to $300 with discount for local club members. A NAM vendor from whom I have bought items previously quotes a MSRP of $292, down to $234 for NAM members. Car-Stuff dot com quotes $152; Go-Part dot com quotes $90; RockAuto quotes $80. Can these last three be anything remotely approaching OE quality?

 

I see that also. I just bougt an O2 sensor, Dealer $230, auto parts store $160-200 online source $115. They all are made in Japan.

 

I have always had pretty good experience with the aftermarket stuff from rockauto. And the prices are rock bottom. They sometime offer multiple manufacturers, but supposely all are "tier 1" or better.

If the part is easy to replace, like a fan, I don't worry about it and try it out. (haven't be disappointed yet.)
If it like a timing belt or clutch and has a lot of labor, I make sure its at least OEM quality.