I need to replace the thermostat in my 2003 Lexus LS 430.
I'm very weary of replacement parts and forgeries now a days.
I would go to Lexus for the part but don't feel like the drive or paying the dealer cost of a simple part.
Of the chain auto parts stores what is the best brand now?
Are the "Lexus genuine factory parts" I see on eBay real or forgery's?
Is there a good way to spot the difference?

I would go to RockAuto and have it shipped, there are a lot of fakes on Amazon and E-Bay from China.

On RockAuto you can choose from many manufacturer options from budget to best, delivered to your home.

https://www.rockauto.com/en/ca...stem,thermostat,2200

You can search online by pn 90916-03100 which is a Toyota part for several engines and find dealers that sell it for a discount, $38 retail, $26 but you'll probably have to pay shipping. Aisin is the manufacturer of Toyota Thermostats and RockAuto has it for $15 and change.

I'll 2nd RockAuto, typically quick to ship & good prices. Haven't have a bad part sent through them.

Buy the factory correct part.....ask the guy that didn't and paid for it!!

Stant is the only aftermarket brand I trust. They are an OEM supplier. But, on a part as important as a thermostat. OEM is the best, especially if it's dificult to replace.

OEM only for Lexus, the cars do not like aftermarket stuff.

quote:

Originally posted by GT-40DOC:
Buy the factory correct part.....ask the guy that didn't and paid for it!!

That’s just too tempting, what happened?

Armored, do you know the Lexus part number for your thermostat?

I ask, to show an example. I learned recently that the OEM air filter for my Toyota 4Runner shares a part number with the air filter for one of the Lexus SUVs. Same filter, same part number, way different prices depending on whether you buy at a Lexus dealer or a Toyota dealer.

So with your Lexus part number, could you go to your local Toyota shop or even an online source like BAM Automotive or Rock Auto (I've used both several times) and find the same part at a much better price?

Might be worth looking into, if compatibility and price are the objectives.

(Link to BAM), as an example.


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ETA: If that part number is 90916-03100, then it's just $29 at LexusPartsNow and $26 at BAM.

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Thanks.
HRK provided me with the factory OEM manufacturer, AISIN, I will buy that part.

Very good!
Evidently I looked right over HRK's mention of the part number earlier.
Glad it has worked out.

buy the oem (or equivalent Toyota part) from a reliable source. the knockoffs are everywhere and this is an inexpensive part with serious consequences.