- 01/04/2015
- 0 Min Read
- By: Alex Fiehl
Meyle HD vs OEM: Is Heavy Duty Really Better than OEM?
Like religion, politics, and "Ford vs Chevy", there are many with their own set of opinions, so I'll add mine as well.
While most aftermarket companies will offer an “OEM equivalent” replacement part, Meyle's "HD" line is specifically a redesign of the original component with the sole purpose of improving upon the original design. This is unusual in the aftermarket, and as you'd expect, the OEMs have a response.
The suspension acts as a system
Meyle says their HD line exists because of inherent weakness in the original product, thus Meyle redesigned the given part for increased durability. The OEM’s response is that the suspension acts as a system, so by increasing the durability of a given piece, say a bushing (including increased stiffness), will translate the stress further down the drivetrain resulting in greater wear and tear and possibly earlier failure of other suspension components.
It keeps you out of the garage
Our conclusion starts with considering the current mileage of the car. If the original components gave you 100K of excellent service, then expect that replacing with OEM should yield the same result so long as all the other components are prepared to make that same 100K journey again. My point here is that you must take a very close look at all the existing components of the suspension as a system of interacting components. This means that one weak component can impact the durability of other components (like the OEM described above). Thus, you may get a better long term result updating all worn components once instead of piecemeal. It keeps you out of the garage and it is better for the suspension as a whole.
So, Meyle HD or OEM? Once you are sure the remainder of your suspension is up to snuff, then we suggest OEM if you liked the comfort and handling of the car when it was new. But, if you prefer a slightly firmer ride that includes better road feel due to firmer bushings and beefier joints, then equipping your vehicle with Meyle HD components is a solid path to take.
This article was written & published by a former FCP blogger.
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