[Jeepman]

The OE springs were designed for the vehicle, same as the OE tires are. Aftermarket tires are a tad different due to their more universal nature.

The springs that come with quick struts are more universal in design

 

[Jeepman]

Yes, Gabriel isn't talked about but should be good.

 

[Jeepman]

And what do you mean by this? I don't see an answer.

Scotty says it all. Keep your expectations low as to spring rates, height and longevity when using quick struts. You get what you pay for.

OE struts normally last a lot longer than 67,000 miles. Expect 100,000 to 200,000 at least. They may not be your problem

 

[Jeepman]

And what do you mean by this? I don't see an answer.

The question:
Which strut assembly is best, OEM or Aftermarket?

The answer:
OEM

For aftermarket, KYB seems favored, Monroe not so much, Gabriel is silent, Sachs is silent, FCS is somewhat silent. We could be missing something. How much technical data is available to feed into the decision making process? The more technical data a Manufacturer makes available, the less they have to hide. You can compare tube sizes quite easily.

Note that today, on rockauto.com, KYB has two selections for bare bones struts (not an assembly), for my 2016, apparently trying to fine tune to duplicate OE.
KYB 339344 for R/T model, KYB 339246 for the rest.
So do Monroe, FCS and Mopar have two selections.
Gabriel and Sachs don't have an R/T model on rockauto.com

On rockauto.com "FCS 331821" is one of their most popular parts. Go figure.

More Information for FCS 331821

There are differences. What are the differences (technically) and do they matter (to you)?

 

[Jeepman]

wow, all the hate for Monroe? I have a beater winter ride/hauler 3rd gen 3.3 with a 38k mile reman with excellent mechanicals and fiberglassed rockers.....I think I need the front strut assemblies and the big four are 170$/277$ EACH for the Monroe, while Rock Auto has them private label [same Monroe part number] for 67$ each...I mean for a van that runs excellent but is 22 years old I dont think I could beat that price.

Using the same number is a matter of convenience and ..... deception. It doesn't mean they are the same product. Many filters use FRAM numbers because FRAM seems to represent the industry. They aren't FRAM filters, far from it. That happens with a lot of products.

Example:
EPAuto CP743 (CF10743) Replacement for Chrysler/Dodge/Infiniti/Nissan/Volkswagen Premium Cabin Air Filter includes Activated Carbon

CF10743 is a FRAM # but that epauto filter doesn't have baking soda.

 

[Jeepman]

For my 2016 DGC, there are a couple more Mopar and SACHS strut selections when I look at the 2016 T&C version on rockauto.com. Otherwise the selection is the same.

 

[Jeepman]

I just verified my right strut is leaking. I first suspected a leak when I replaced the brake pads/rotors last month. Thought it might be fresh corrosion protection product. So much for Mopar quality on that strut, should have lasted for 300,000 km at least.

I'm considering a KYB, Mopar or Gabriel strut and reusing the Mopar spring and mount.

Other than the leak and a light noise going slow over some bumps, the strut seems to be working okay. There's no lean in the corners and ride/handling is normal.

 

[Jeepman]

Speaking of junk, the OE RF strut on my 2016 DGC started leaking back in September / 2022 at 164000 km / 101905 miles. I wasn't impressed. OE should last twice as long.

We don't have to go to China to find bad products, just take a look at the life of the plastic components on the Pentastar engine and the down home ticking of the rocker arms.

I have a Costco Kirkland battery in my 2016 DGC - made in China. We will see if it can last longer than the OE battery which died April 2021 / 130000 km. I expect 6 years out of a good battery, 5 years is a little soon.

 

[Jeepman]

I'm a great believer in OE parts as well but have some reservations;
White box brake parts for a 2004 Acura TSX that outlasted the poor quality OE garbage.
Mopar parts that are just reboxed brand names like NGK, NTK or Champion for examples. Why pay the extra price (Mopar inflation).

On rockauto.com the KYB and Gabriel are the more expensive strut assemblies. How long do they last before a seal starts leaking like the OE RF Strut on my 2016 DGC (102000 miles)? My 2002 DGC had the original struts on it when sold in 2018 / 230000 miles. Does price reflect better value for the dollar? I would think so except possibly when the more expensive Mopar name is on it, especially if that name is on a plastic part.

"Economy" or "standard" designations are indicative of a shorter life. That's a given.