Begin by disconnecting the electrical connection. Remove the protective cap and the 13mm nut from the main electrical line. Finally remove the 8mm nut holding the bracket that supports the wiring harness to the alternator.
What tools do I need to remove the alternator on a Volkswagen?
Today, we're going to be removing the alternator on a Volkswagen. The tools we're going to need for this job is going to be a 13 millimeter socket with a ratchet and an eight millimeter wrench or socket. B efore removing the alternator, you're going to need to remove the serpentine belt tensioner and belt.
How do I replace the alternator?
Take the main battery cable off and the connector. Remove the cover on the battery connector and then unscrew it (don't lose the cover, it needs to go back on when you are done). Remove the cable off and then lift the alternator out. Hey, everybody.
Why is my car charging but my alternator is not working?
If you suspect alternator trouble, you need to check to see that is operating correctly, and is indeed the cause of the problems with your charging system. Sometimes bizarre electrical problems can be caused by a number of faults other than the alternator. It's important to troubleshoot the system prior to replacing your alternator.
What happens when an alternator fails?
The alternator charges the battery and provides your car with a constant source of electricity while the engine is running. Over time, the alternator will begin to fail and cause trouble with the various electrical devices in the car.
How do you remove a VW alternator?
0:112:18How To Remove A VW Alternator ~ Salvage Yard Tips - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipBefore removing the alternator you're gonna need to remove the serpentine belt tensioner. And beltMoreBefore removing the alternator you're gonna need to remove the serpentine belt tensioner. And belt check out the other video I did showing exactly how to do that now that we have the belt.
How much does it cost to replace a VW alternator?
The average alternator repair cost is between $375 to $1,100. However, these numbers can vary based on the parts needing repair or replacement, car model, and labor cost. The estimated cost for parts (including a replacement belt) can range from $290 to $600.
How do you check a Volkswagen alternator?
0:399:05How to Test an Alternator - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipHere's the negative terminal. And the positive terminal on the battery. You want to make sure theseMoreHere's the negative terminal. And the positive terminal on the battery. You want to make sure these terminals are clean so that you'll get a reading when you do this test.
How do I change my alternator?
Step by Step: Replacing an Alternator Loosen and remove the serpentine belt. Remove the wiring harness or connectors. Loosen and remove the alternator. Install the new alternator, making sure it fits and aligns with the bolt holes.
Is changing an alternator hard?
Replacing an alternator can cost you several hundred bucks at the local repair shop, but it's one of the simplest repairs you can do at home. With a few tools and about an hour you can swap it out yourself -- and keep your dough in your pocket where it belongs.
How do I check to see if my alternator is bad?
First, open the hood and start the car. While the engine is running, remove the negative cable from the battery. If the vehicle stalls or dies, the alternator is likely bad. This happens because the alternator is not generating enough electricity to keep the engine running on its own.
How do you start a car with a bad alternator?
How To Jumpstart A Car With A Bad AlternatorFind Someone with a Good Battery. You can't jumpstart a dead battery without a fully-charged option at your fingertips. ... Let It Run. Before the jumpstart begins, you'll want to run the other engine for 3 to 4 minutes. ... Turn Accessories Off. ... Get Thee to a Mechanic. ... Use a Jumper Pack.
How do I know if my alternator is draining my battery?
0:2411:03Diagnosing battery or alternator 4/3: Battery drain - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipBut the easiest way is to check for AC currents at the battery. So what you want to do with theMoreBut the easiest way is to check for AC currents at the battery. So what you want to do with the engine running. So the alternator is running is set your multimeter to look for AC voltage.
Can I test my alternator by disconnecting the battery?
If you're tempted to test an alternator by disconnecting the negative battery cable, don't do it. A good alternator may indeed keep the engine running without the negative cable, but this was never a good test. In the pre-computer days, you could pull it off without damaging anything.
How long does it take a mechanic to change an alternator?
about two hoursReplacing an alternator will take a professional about two hours. However, that doesn't mean your car will only be at the shop for two hours—there may be a wait before a mechanic can address your ride. Plus, if the shop needs to get parts delivered, it will take even longer.
Do you have to replace battery when replacing alternator?
Your battery should be one of the first things on your checklist after installing a new car alternator. Any installation guide will say that you need to disconnect the battery before installing the new alternator. So, at the very least, you need to make sure that you reconnect it.
Where is the fuse for the alternator?
0:133:39Alternator Fuse Check this first, if new alternator is not charging ... - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd you should be able to find an inline fuse somewhere along the line so this one's behind thisMoreAnd you should be able to find an inline fuse somewhere along the line so this one's behind this little box here on this model and i'll show you another one later.
The alternator charges the battery and provides your car with a constant source of electricity while the engine is running
Over time, the alternator will begin to fail and cause trouble with the various electrical devices in the car. If you suspect alternator trouble, you need to check to see that is operating correctly, and is indeed the cause of the problems with your charging system.
Project Photos
Figure 1 The first step in replacing any alternator is to disconnect the battery. You will be working around live electric wires here. If you happen to touch the lead going to the alternator against something, you can cause permanent damage to the electrical system if the battery is hooked up. Be smart here and disconnect it.
What does an alternator charge?
Click here to order! The alternator charges the battery and provides your car with a constant source of electricity while the engine is running. Over time, the alternator will begin to fail and cause trouble with the various electrical devices in the car. If you suspect alternator trouble, you need to check to see that is operating correctly, ...
How to neutralize acid in car?
Dousing the area with a water and baking soda solution should help considerably to neutralize the acid, and prevent it from eating away at the metal. An important item to check on your car is the engine ground strap. The engine is electrically isolated from the chassis by rubber motor mounts.
Can a belt break on an alternator?
Modern belts seldom break, but they get brittle and glazed with age, and can slip on their pulleys. Replace the belt with a new one as required. The next item to check is the voltage at the battery. Before performing any tests of your alternator, charge and test your battery.
Instructions
Hey, everybody. Charles from HumbleMechanic.com back with another DIY and Drive tutorial with Pull-A-Part Used Auto Parts. Today, we're going to be removing the alternator on a Volkswagen. The tools we're going to need for this job is going to be a 13 millimeter socket with a ratchet and an eight millimeter wrench or socket. B
VIDEO TRANSCRIPT
Hey, everybody. Charles from HumbleMechanic.com back with another DIY and Drive tutorial with Pull-A-Part Used Auto Parts. Today, we're going to be removing the alternator on a Volkswagen. The tools we're going to need for this job is going to be a 13 millimeter socket with a ratchet and an eight millimeter wrench or socket. B