OEM Lemforder, TRW vs Meyle, 034, Control Arms

[quattroism25]

Yes I did search the threads...Control arm bushings generally don't last very long on audis. So what are you guys replacing them with? Lemforder and TRW OEMs or aftermarket? How are the aftermarket arms holding up? Aftermarket brands are way cheaper but I'm concerned about durability.

[C Cortez]

I have often struggled with this issue. I lean heavily towards Genuine Audi or OE. When I do not, then I will choose a well regarded manufacturer and, in the case os Audi, buy primarily parts made in Europe or USA.

Rant :
The topic suffers from the loose use of OE and OEM. I find FCPEuro.com's definition the one that makes the most sense.

A part is marked OE if this very part is the one that is used by the car manufacturer for this very model.

Many part vendors use either OE or OEM without providing a definition. Often, vendors use the term OE for the part supplier as a whole -- if said supplier makes an OE part for some automobile manufacturer, then all of parts by this part supplier are flagged as OE !. Also, some part vendors use the terms OE and OEM interchangeably.
/Rant

[ericw.]

IMO one of the few things 034 really excel at is aftermarket bushings. No other aftermarket company right now can beat their street density line bushings.