Suspension parts are essential for the smooth operation of your vehicle. They absorb shock and help to maintain stability, making your ride more comfortable and safer. However, with so many brands and types of suspension parts on the market, it can be difficult to determine which ones are best suited for your vehicle.
Moog and ACDelco are two reputable brands that offer a wide range of suspension parts for various vehicles. In a way, these two brands revolutionized access to affordable, good-quality parts that feel (and ride) like your OEMs.
But which one’s actually better: ACDelco vs MOOG?
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Lookout for the Diamond in the Rough
With their legion of product lines, it isn’t that easy to say. Before I compare them, I’d like to note something:
For ACDelco: Make sure you’re sticking to the Professional line of products (like this ball joint). The ACDelco Advantage line is a discounted, generic lineup of lower quality.
For MOOG: Stick to their Problem Solver series (such as this control arm assembly) for similar reasons.
Whenever you see the CK lettering (or K-series for ball joints), you’ll know it’s a Problem Solver part. The MOOG R-series are similar to ACDelco’s Advantage – cheaper parts of inferior quality.
Why Would You Even Care?
Well, I wouldn’t cheap out on suspension parts because they’re absolutely crucial for your vehicle. Forking over a few bucks more will buy you the needed peace of mind.
Seriously, look at this video. This guy demonstrates how a discounted part (Advantage) differs from professional performance (Problem Solver) on his Chevy:
This is why it’s better for us to stick to MOOG Problem Solver vs AC Delco Professional.
Reliable Suspension Replacement
When it comes to keeping your vehicle running smoothly, suspension replacement is essential. Your suspension parts absorb shock and help to maintain stability, making your ride more comfortable and safer. However, with so many brands and types of suspension parts on the market, it can be difficult to determine which ones are best suited for your vehicle.
Two reputable brands that offer high-quality suspension parts are Moog and ACDelco. However, it’s important to know the differences between their product lines. The ACDelco Advantage line offers lower quality, discounted suspension parts, while the Professional line is recommended for better performance.
Similarly, MOOG’s R-series is a cheaper option with inferior quality, while the Problem Solver series is recommended as a more reliable suspension replacement. Investing in high-quality suspension parts is crucial for the safety and comfort of your vehicle, so it’s important to choose wisely.
Moog vs ACDelco Cheatsheet
When it comes to suspension parts, Moog and ACDelco have earned their reputations as two of the best in the business. Each brand offers a wide range of parts for various vehicles, so how do you decide which one is better? Well, let’s compare the two and see what each has to offer.
MOOG is well known for providing higher quality parts and more reliable performance than ACDelco. This holds especially true for their Problem Solver series, which are designed to last longer and provide better results than ACDelco’s Professional line. MOOG also offers a limited lifetime warranty on all its products, compared to ACDelco’s one-year warranty.
ACDelco is renowned for being an affordable alternative to MOOG’s parts, offering similar performance at a lower cost. Their Professional line of suspension components is built with greater durability in mind than their Advantage line, but they still pale in comparison to MOO G’s Problem Solver series. ACDelco also offers a one-year warranty on its parts, whereas MOOG has a limited lifetime warranty.
Ultimately, I have a preference for each type of component, so let’s dive into more detail.
MOOG K80026 Ball Joint is King
Definitely MOOG with their K-series ball joints like this one. The powdered metal gusher bearing design is a groundbreaking improvement, and they’re easier to service.
- Best for its price range.
- Stellar Problem Solver performance.
- Serviceable, well-powdered, and sturdy!
Tie Rod End Are Neck and Neck
Both brands are similar in terms of pricing, durability and ease of installation. I dig ACDelco’s golden-colored coating for eye–candy purposes–but it doesn’t change much functionally.
From the brand’s Professional series. Durable, looks cool, fits well. On par with the best of MOOG.
The Unmatched Moog CK80669 Control Arm
The updated design makes these control arms a piece of cake to install and ensures a secure, intelligent fitting system.
Wheel Bearings Also Resemble
Similar to ball joints, MOOG wins with their roll form greaseable design- it spreads better, has thicker coating, and ABS cord protection.
However! Neither is the best choice if you’re looking for extra heavy-duty bearings. Head over to my article on Timken, SKF and MOOG to see why SKF is the king.
Some Specifics With Moog vs ACDelco Aftermarket Parts
Finding aftermarket parts can lead to premature failure if you don’t take the time to research high-quality parts. With upper control arm bushings and upper ball joints for any vehicle model, it’s important to find reliable suppliers who provide parts that meet or exceed OEM standards. Look for brands with a good reputation and offer warranties on their products. Investing in high-quality aftermarket parts can save you money in the long run by avoiding costly repairs due to premature part failure.
Joints for Replacement Vehicles
The market is full of Moog and ACDelco aftermarket parts for any vehicle category. For example, if your car or truck needs new control arms, you can choose Moog K6541 Ball Joints for superior strength and durability. If you’re looking for a more cost-effective option, the ACDelco Professional line offers good quality at a lower price point.
Up until a few years ago or so, a lot of ACDelco’s ball joints weren’t greasable. With MOOG having a grease zerk, that was a huge advantage in terms of serviceability and longevity.
Since then, ACDelco has increased its portfolio of greaseable joints. By observing the grease fitting will give you an idea of the wear a ball joint has. If you get a Professional part, it should be serviceable.
Still, as I mentioned, the extra powdered design makes MOOG ball joints tougher. I’ve talked about this when comparing the brand to Mevotech, and especially this research on how MOOG joints outperform many other brands and OEMs.
A Range of Servisable Vehicle Models
ACDelco is at the top of suspension brands as f the official OE part supplier for several cars makes. We’re talking about Chevrolet, GMC, Buick and Cadillac. Remind me if I’m forgetting someone.
MOOG is a NASCAR® partner and spreads to providing OEM quality to more brands. Just a small note – if you have Jeep, even their professional-grade ball joints aren’t good enough. I have a post on Jeep ball joints that introduces better options.
Let’s Talk Product Lines
ACDelco has a range of fittings with a few additional lines of products that MOOG doesn’t offer.
An iconic example would be their decent brake pads and rotors ( latest prices here).
As long as you stick to the Professional line, these actually outperform OEM pads. While not as good as Wagner brakes, they’re still a great bang for your buck in that price range.
Along these, we also have air filters, batteries, and spark plugs…making the brand more diversified in terms of product segments. But I think that the central point of comparing these two is the suspension system.
Always Look at the Product Portfolio of Suspension Brands
When it comes to suspension parts, it’s always important to look at the entire product portfolio of the brands you’re considering. When comparing Moog and ACDelco, for example, you’ll want to consider not only the ball joints, tie rod ends, and control arms but also things like shock absorbers and bushings.
Both brands offer reliable and durable suspension parts, but choosing the right product line for your needs is essential. If you’re wondering whether Moog parts are good, many reviews highlight their durability and performance, especially their Problem Solver series. These parts are designed to solve common suspension problems and offer a longer lifespan than other options.
The price difference between Moog and ACDelco suspension parts is notable, but it’s important to consider your specific needs and budget when making a choice. Investing in high-quality suspension parts is essential for a reliable and safe ride, and choosing the right brand and product line can make all the difference. By doing your research and consulting with professionals, you can make an informed decision and ensure that your suspension replacement is a success.
What are your experiences with MOOG or ACDelco?
As always, aftermarket parts can be a very subjective topic. I’ve seen a lot of people have a bad experience with one brand while others swear by it.
I think both have their time to shine. Talking about ACDelco, I know they have good serpentine belts, too, as they rely on the legendary Gates for the manufacture.
I’m interested to learn more about your story. Which brand do you prefer? What parts of theirs have you installed in your vehicle, and how did it go?
Let me and the other readers know. We’d appreciate it!