It looks like I've got a wheel bearing going on the PS Front of my 2004 STI. Not too surprising with 130K miles on the clock I suppose.

How are we feeling about OEM vs Aftermarket Bearings/Hubs these days?

The Dorman hubs are about half the cost of Subaru OE. I'm not concerned with spending an extra $50 for the factory bearing, but I don't want to throw the $$ away for no reason.

Opinions Please?

 

You doing the work yourself? I just clocked 156k miles and I am starting to think about bearings as well. I will probably have autohq do the work and use whatever kevin recommends.

 

I’m gonna farm it out. It requires a machine press to change the bearing, I don’t have one and don’t want one.
Frankly the new job has left me with little time and I need the car up for the soith SJ to Mointain View commute

Probably with Mann (primary shop) or Edge (3 blocks from work) will get the job

 

Not in any of our Subarus, but in all my previous experience with Dorman is that they are quality, but not as good as OEM. If you're looking for a cheap quick fix that will last a little bit, go with Dorman. If you want something that will last much longer, go OEM.

 

For major parts like that, always OEM if you intend to keep the car.