Brake light on, Battery light on. Only occasionally. Dealer claims I need new alternator...seems to early in the car's life to need this. Wants $600 for it. Would love an opinion on a better solution.
Thanks!
2006-10-13 11:38:31 · 5 answers · asked by kevinmkyer 2 in Cars & Transportation ➔ Maintenance & Repairs
I'm not a fan of dealership shops - seems like they always over-charge and screw up what they touch.
The parts store test for your charging system is an excellent idea. If your battery is holding a charge, it could be the alternator, but it could also be the belt.
If you do need to replace your alternator, you could ask your locat parts store if they could recommend a couple mechanic shops. Take your car in, get the work done. You could consider a rebuilt alternator - they are cheaper, but they often only come with a short warranty, 3 - 6 months or so, compared to a year with a new part.
As for the part being worn out so soon, keep in mind that if a new alternator warranty is only for one year, parts manufacturers aren't intending these parts to last for very long. How would they make money, otherwise?
2006-10-20 18:51:01 · answer #1 · answered by Just 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
As Edselman said, take it to another mechanic and have them check to see if it is charging. It could be a loose belt or dirty battery cable ends. If you do have to replace the alternator, a cheaper solution is to get an aftermarket brand. Autozone usually has a lifetime replacement warranty on their alternators, and according to their website an alternator for your car is $134.99
2006-10-13 18:10:39 · answer #2 · answered by ladylucknc 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Take it to a parts store like Napa or Advanced auto parts. They do the checking of your battery and charging system free. They will tell you what part needs to be replaced. And if they are wrong and you buy the part from them they have to pay for the replacement for wrong diagnosis.
2006-10-20 13:29:43 · answer #3 · answered by whtsthislif4 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Take one of the battery cables off and if your car cuts off its the alternator if not it the battery if it cuts off its the alternator
2006-10-20 23:30:58 · answer #4 · answered by onlord2004 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
try a different mechanic. have the battery checked first, if it's receiving a charge, alternator is ok :)
2006-10-13 11:41:58 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋