Q&A

How much is a refurbished alternator?

How much is a refurbished alternator?

In general, expect $130 to $250 for a quality alternator. The lower end is offers professionally remanufactured alternators, while the high-end price range is generally new alternators running higher amps for modern vehicles.

How much is an alternator at a junkyard?

This is especially true if you buy an alternator from a junkyard, which is one of the main sources for used parts. Expect to pay upwards of $50 for a used alternator.

Are rebuilt alternators worth it?

If you rebuild the alternator, you would save a significant amount of money. Rebuilt alternators can be up to 25 percent cheaper than buying a new alternator. However, AA 1 Car states that there is sometimes a problem of quality with rebuilt alternators.

How long should a refurbished alternator last?

When people have their car alternator replaced, the expectation is that the repair will last at least as long as the expected life of the new alternator, four to five years or anywhere from 50,000 to 100,000 miles.

Can you start a car with a bad alternator?

A bad alternator can prevent a car from starting because it did not charge the battery when the car was running.

Is it okay to use a used alternator?

There’s nothing wrong with buying used as long as it has some type of warranty, the price of a used one is significantly less than new or reman, you don’t plan on keeping the vehicle a long time, and the alternator isn’t difficult to change for some reason (it’s a pretty easy job on most vehicles).

Are cheap alternators any good?

Cheap parts are not made to the proper specs, they’re not made to be as efficient or durable as OEM parts, and they’re not as well designed. When it comes to buying a replacement part – especially a replacement alternator – OEM is the only way to go.

What would cause a brand new alternator to fail?

Alternators put out alternating current, and the battery needs direct current to charge, so there is a voltage rectifier that converts it, and it can suddenly go bad, too. Dust and dirt can get into the alternator, and over time cause shorts or wear on the brushes.

Is changing an alternator expensive?

Most vehicles will fall into the $350-400 range for the total job of alternator replacement if no other parts need to be replaced. If the serpentine belt gets tacked on, add another $20 to $50 to your bill. If you decide to go with dealership parts and labor, expect the bill to climb over $500 in many cases.

What is the cost to rebuild an alternator?

A rebuilt alternator will only cost you $80 to $150 for the rebuilt charge. If you do not know how to remove and install an alternator, then you can hire a mechanic to do it for you and you will be charged a minimal fee of $70 to $120.

What is an alternator replacement?

The replacement of the alternator is a common repair, and will be provided by most shops. Most alternators will be replaced within the day, however plan on dropping the car off early and picking it up near the end of the day.

What is a rebuilt starter?

Although some authorities, including the Automotive Parts Remanufacturers Association, argue that the terms “rebuilt” and “remanufactured” refer to the exact same concept, remanufacturing typically refers to a process that results in a final product that is virtually indistinguishable from a brand new starter.