Aftermarket Height Control Sensors (1 Viewer)

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Does anybody have any experience with aftermarket height control sensors for AHC? Finding used OEM for 125-150 each and aftermarket for 50.
 
Does anybody have any experience with aftermarket height control sensors for AHC? Finding used OEM for 125-150 each and aftermarket for 50.
Personally, I would go with OEM as all the R&D has been done, aftermarket are cheap for a reason, made in China.

You buy cheap you buy twice.
 
This is one of those times when the term "OEM" just doesn't cut it. In most circles (not Toyota forums) the term OEM would mean the Aisin manufactured, Aisin branded part from Rock Auto for $146 front and $162 rear. I would never buy a used "OEM" (i.e. OE) for $150. It might be only a week newer than the one you're taking off. The new genuine Toyota OE part seems to be around $350, which to me is crazy when the Aisin is $146.

But look at the part. It's indestructible except for the sensor itself. Have you taken it off and cleaned the sensor? It has been alleged, not really verified, that the sensor is just a Camry headlight level sensor like this one - Amazon product ASIN B072WQ8M3DIt sure looks the same. If your sensor doesn't clean up you should give it a try. It's only 22 bucks (clearly aftermarket). Take one for the team.
 
This is one of those times when the term "OEM" just doesn't cut it. In most circles (not Toyota forums) the term OEM would mean the Aisin manufactured, Aisin branded part from Rock Auto for $146 front and $162 rear. I would never buy a used "OEM" (i.e. OE) for $150. It might be only a week newer than the one you're taking off. The new genuine Toyota OE part seems to be around $350, which to me is crazy when the Aisin is $146.

But look at the part. It's indestructible except for the sensor itself. Have you taken it off and cleaned the sensor? It has been alleged, not really verified, that the sensor is just a Camry headlight level sensor like this one - Amazon product ASIN B072WQ8M3DIt sure looks the same. If your sensor doesn't clean up you should give it a try. It's only 22 bucks (clearly aftermarket). Take one for the team.
Thanks for the feedback - I'll certainly try cleaning the sensor prior to ordering.
 
These have come up a few times recently with folks having mysterious problems after installing aftermarket. I don't think that savings is worth the hassle/risk. Go OEM from a discounted online seller.
Do you have go-to discounted online seller?
 
 
Not sure if this is the needed sensor, but this is a case where Partsouq makes a lot of sense. $209 vs $350, even at McGeorge.

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Why are these often called HEADLIGHT LEVEL SENSORS ?
Some vehicles with adjustable headlights use a sensor like this to make sure the headlights stay aimed correctly. My 2018 Buick Regal TourX has a sensor like this and will adjust based on load in the car.
 

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