Honda Repair: After market engine parts, genuine honda parts, original equipment manufacturer

Question
Hi Travis,

The crankshaft bearing went on my 1.6L D16Y8 engine and I need to replace it.  I was thinking since I am doing all that work I might as well rebuild the engine.  I was wondering what you thoughts of after market parts to rebuild the engine instead of genuine Honda parts. After market part cost $310 and the genuine Honda parts cost $1240.

Answer
Hi Jason, to answer your question... Well "I" only use OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) genuine Honda parts to replace with. The reason I have only used these parts in the past, is, due to knowing i have the right part, per year, per engine. Also, I know that the part can only be installed a certain way and will fit flawlessly. Purchasing aftermarket engine parts, non-OEM, who knows where they were made? Who knows if they used the proper standards that Honda uses when building there parts? When it comes to your engine it should perform like it should if not better. And you should not gamble on using "iffy" parts for the investment you are making.

PS-  Your engine is a D16y8 SOHC VTEC you can purchase these engines from most Japanese engine specialists for around $1000 to $1500 and they will have considerably less miles. I hope this helps...