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Been keeping track of these at the shop...
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Posted by JustinHiFi [Email] (#829) [Profile/Gallery] (more from JustinHiFi) on Sun, 15 Apr 2012 19:49:47 Share Post by Email
In Reply to: 2 years and 30K on my $150 Chinese DIC., Brian, Sun, 15 Apr 2012 05:00:32
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Have never installed a Chinese IDM, even after being hammered by some clients about "the cheaper ones online". Its simple, I will not install it on your car if I won't install it on my own car. Ever look at the knock signal sensitivity level on a Tech 2 between a Chinese unit and SEM unit? (same plugs, same car, same conditions just pull and swap) You will see the Chinese unit does not have the same sensitivity (less) which over time will lead to internal engine/piston damage if driven hard.

As Chad says, there is a price to pay for the price paid... unfortunately for some that is at a shop level not for the vehicle owner. Shop says great we can make another $200 for ordering the aftermarket version while charging them for a genuine SEM unit.

In 2010, replaced 8 red IDMs 5 of which were Chinese units and had less than two years of service (one burned out completely after a month). Same year I replaced 27 black IDMs 3 were Chinese units with the same failure time frame. 2011 was 4 red 2 were Chinese with less than two years of service. 32 black IDM 7 were Chinese. So far this year 2 red both were Chinese; 14 black 5 were Chinese.

I would suggest installing your new red unit and using the Chinese as your trunk spare. Guess it all comes down to how much value you place on reliability of your vehicle and the chance of breaking down with no or little help. Also the risk of engine damage.

At a shop level, I take no chances to make a few extra bucks on lesser quality parts. Also have zero, yes zero, warranty work. Get OEM Saab or equivalent parts (OE suppler for Saab). Ever read the poor quality reviews on ScanTech idler pulleys? Theres a reason they are 1/3 the price of an INA/Saab pulley.

Your car, your money, your decision. Plus, with this post you just jinxed yourself :D

JustinHiFi

posted by 97.103.11... 
_______________________________________
JustinHiFi
Strictly Saab Inc.
Melbourne, FL

Current:
-1991 900 S-PG MT
-2001 9-5 Wagon AT
-2006 9-3 SS AT

Past:
-1964 96 2-Smoke MT
-1967 96 v4 MT
-1983 900 Turbo MT
-1985 900 SPG MT
-1988 9000 Turbo Black MT
-1988 9000 Turbo White AT
-1990 900 SPG Red MT
-1990 900 SPG Black MT 
-1991 9000 Turbo MT
-1991 900 SPG Red MT
-1992 9000 Griffin AT 
-2000 9-5 Aero Sedan MT
-2001 9-5 Aero Wagon MT
-2008 9-3 2.0T Sedan AT
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