When your car's suspension needs replacing, you're faced with a choice between brands like NCP and Duralast. Both are common in the aftermarket, but they serve different priorities. This guide compares NCP vs Duralast suspension parts across key factors: quality, fit, warranty, and cost. By the end, you'll know which brand makes sense for your repair.
Overview of NCP and Duralast
NCP Suspension Parts
NCP (New China Parts) is a brand that focuses on producing suspension components that match OEM specifications. The company is known for precise engineering, using high-grade materials like chrome-silicon alloy steel for springs and hardened steel for ball joints and control arms. NCP parts are often sold at independent auto parts stores and online retailers. They aim to deliver a direct replacement experience with minimal hassle.
Duralast Suspension Parts
Duralast is AutoZone's house brand, available exclusively at AutoZone stores and their website. Duralast components are designed to be reliable and affordable, with a strong emphasis on warranty coverage. The brand covers many suspension parts, including struts, shocks, control arms, and tie rods. Duralast is often the go-to option for budget-conscious DIYers and those who want the convenience of a national chain.
Quality and Durability
NCP Build Quality
NCP suspension parts are engineered to meet or exceed OEM standards. The materials used are typically premium: ball joints use hardened steel studs with PTFE-lined bearings for smooth operation and long life. Control arms are often constructed from stamped steel or forged aluminum, depending on the application. Springs are shot-peened for fatigue resistance. Many mechanics report that NCP parts last as long as OEM components when installed correctly. However, since NCP is not a major brand, some users have reported occasional fit issues on certain vehicle models.
Duralast Build Quality
Duralast parts are built to a price point. While they meet basic safety and performance standards, the materials are generally less robust than OEM or premium aftermarket brands. For example, Duralast ball joints may use a simpler seal design, and control arm bushings might be less durable. That said, AutoZone has improved Duralast quality over the years, and many DIYers find them adequate for daily drivers. The brand prioritizes affordability over longevity, so you may need to replace Duralast components sooner than NCP.
Fit and Compatibility
NCP Fitment
NCP is known for excellent fitment on many Asian and domestic vehicles. The parts are often manufactured using original blueprints or reverse-engineered with high precision. They typically come with all necessary hardware (bolts, nuts, etc.). However, because NCP is a smaller brand, coverage can be spotty for some European or less common models. Always double-check your vehicle's specific year, make, and model before ordering.
Duralast Fitment
Duralast parts are designed to fit a wide range of vehicles, and AutoZone's cataloging system is generally accurate. The parts are often offered as complete assemblies (e.g., quick-struts) that include the spring, strut, and mount, reducing installation time. For common vehicles like Ford F-150 or Honda Accord, Duralast fitment is very reliable. However, for older or rare cars, you may find limited availability.
Warranty and Support
NCP Warranty
NCP offers a limited lifetime warranty on many of their suspension parts. This means if the part fails due to defects in materials or workmanship, you can get a replacement. The warranty is usually honored by the retailer you purchased from. However, the process may require you to return the defective part and show proof of purchase. NCP's customer support is adequate but not as extensive as a large chain's.
Duralast Warranty
Duralast parts come with a strong warranty: typically lifetime on most suspension components. AutoZone's nationwide presence makes warranty claims easy: you can walk into any store with the defective part and receipt, and they'll exchange it on the spot. This is a major advantage for those who want hassle-free support. The warranty covers defects but not wear and tear or improper installation.
Price Comparison
NCP parts generally cost about 20-30% less than OEM parts but are often 10-15% more expensive than Duralast. For example, a control arm for a Toyota Camry might be $60 for NCP and $45 for Duralast. The price difference reflects the material quality and warranty flexibility. If you're on a tight budget, Duralast is the cheaper option. If you value longevity and better materials, NCP justifies the extra cost.
Which One Should You Choose?
Choose NCP if:
- You want parts that closely mimic OEM quality and fit.
- You plan to keep the vehicle for several more years and want durability.
- Your car is a common Asian or domestic model with good NCP coverage.
- You're comfortable buying online or from an independent parts store.
Choose Duralast if:
- You're on a strict budget and need the lowest upfront cost.
- You value convenience and easy warranty replacement at AutoZone.
- You're doing a quick repair on a vehicle you don't plan to keep long.
- Your car is a popular model with high Duralast availability.
Final Recommendation
For most DIYers and mechanics, the decision comes down to your priorities. If you want a part that will last as long as possible without sacrificing fit, go with NCP. If you want a cheap fix with a no-questions-asked warranty, Duralast is hard to beat. Regardless of your choice, always inspect the old and new parts before installation, torque everything to spec, and get a professional alignment after replacing suspension components.