Hey guys. A friend of mine has a 2009 Camry 4 cyl and the alternator is whining. The car has over 200k miles on the original alternator. Yes, you heard it right. Question is should I go with Denso reman or new alternator like BBB industries? Any other suggestions?
Alternator whine
- Thread starter iCurious
- Start date
How easy is it to replace?
My general rule is, if it is an easy job (IE on top of the motor, couple bolts 15 min job done) then I will take the chance of a (decent name brand) reman/new unit (with a decent warranty)
If it is a real PITA to replace, I'll get the best thing I can put hands on so I only have to do the job once.
In reality, there's a whole lot of junk out there now, some with good names on them, and some with garbage names on them.
My general rule is, if it is an easy job (IE on top of the motor, couple bolts 15 min job done) then I will take the chance of a (decent name brand) reman/new unit (with a decent warranty)
If it is a real PITA to replace, I'll get the best thing I can put hands on so I only have to do the job once.
In reality, there's a whole lot of junk out there now, some with good names on them, and some with garbage names on them.
Although yes, the alternator could be on its way out with >200K miles on the vehicle.
However, how is the alternator charging?
Is it doing its job?
And has the battery been tested?
Alternators will struggle/whine to keep up with a weak battery.
Just a thought!
However, how is the alternator charging?
Is it doing its job?
And has the battery been tested?
Alternators will struggle/whine to keep up with a weak battery.
Just a thought!
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I'd go new. Denso remans don't replace the bearings. Either that or just replace the bearings yourself.
I agree. Load test battery first. If it's an FLA with pop tops, check each cell with a hydrometer. May have a bad cell in it. If all is good with the battery, I believe the alternator is up front. Easy Peasy. I would go with a brand that gives you a lifetime warranty. I think Autozone does, Napa, etc. Shop around. No sense spending all that $$$$ on a Denso with a car with over 200k on it. I have a Napa in mine for 4 yrs. Works fine. An 06' Camry 4cylinder. Not too many toys in it to burn it out.... The hardest part is moving that serpentine belt, then 2 bolts and wiggle it out. Then I bought a $5 ammeter that plugs into 12 volt outlet. Has 2 USB ports on it too. Displays the output of alternator, rather than waiting for the idiot light to come on if it dies. Alternators give you signs of death when they drop below 12 volts for a minute, but not enough to trigger the dash light.,,,and you can watch for overcharging...Nice LED readout. Scamazon.
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