Oem or cheapo tailgate handle?

I need to replace my tailgate handle. It broke to crap. There is a huge price difference in the oem and the various off brand ones. Is there really a massive quality difference? I don’t see it in the photos but what have you all found? Thanks!

 

I have the cheaper non OEM and all is good

Some people seem to sometimes have issues with non OEM handles but the thing is that most people don't grease them when installing...which is quite important for the good operation of the handle and its longevity

 

The only real thing I have learned on this forum is if you don't buy OEM for everything then your truck spontaneously combusts. Do you want to risk that over a door handle?

 

What kind of grease should I use? Thank you!

 

I put an eBay cheapie on my first gen 5 years ago. My dad has the truck, still works fine.

 

Not WD-40 as it is too liquid

Multipurpose grease or white grease will do

 

I got the sub $10 one off Amazon. Works fine. It's not robust but does its job.

 

have you guys seen any aftermarket door handles with integrated backup cameras that'll fit our 1st gens?

 

I guess it would come down to how many times a day you open and close the tail gate

 

Well I think the handle can last a very long time depending on how u use it! When I open my tailgate I always lean a bit on the gate when pulling on the handle takes a lot of pressure off of the handle when opening! Also I put my back up camera underneath my handle it works out nicely