MK7 VW GTI Alternator Reman or New?

[Jackphom]

Looks like my GTI is going to need an alternator soon, it's showing that it is charging around 14.4-14.7 volts when cold out, but when the heated seats, defroster and climate control going. There is a power surge and the blower motor slows down if I turn the wheel too fast while trying to parallel park.

I see the voltage dropping to around 12.1 if I turn the wheel too fast (electric power steering).

With that being said, it has 117k miles on it now. Do I go with a Bosch reman ($200 + 40 core) or Valeo ($340) new?
The OEM is too expensive, they're about 800-1k new for a new Bosch OEM. I believe the current one is a 140amp Bosch unit now, I do plan on riding this car out as long as I can.

Any thoughts?

 

[LazyDog]

I'll pick the Valeo for that price.

 

[Kira]

You're in Bayonne? Take it to Rayelco in Lodi...a 3 generation alternator/started rebuilder.

 

[Jackphom]

You're in Bayonne? Take it to Rayelco in Lodi...a 3 generation alternator/started rebuilder.

Going to replace this OEM one first then take it to a rebuilder, I'll look into them. Thanks!

 

[Devo242]

OEM online price seems to be a bit more favorable than the $800-1k you mentioned FWIW:

https://vw.oempartsonline.com/oem-parts/volkswagen-alternator-6k903024cx

Given the demands placed on the alternator and the issues a bad unit can cause I hesitate to use anything non-OEM.

 

[twouvakind]

Shop Car-Part.*om with your zip, many many in Jersey wrecking yards.

 

[Jackphom]

OEM online price seems to be a bit more favorable than the $800-1k you mentioned FWIW:

https://vw.oempartsonline.com/oem-parts/volkswagen-alternator-6k903024cx

Given the demands placed on the alternator and the issues a bad unit can cause I hesitate to use anything non-OEM.

Bit more reasonable, I have store credit with FCP Euro but they're asking 1k for a new OEM unit.
I might try the Valeo and get the one coming out, rebuilt.

 

[CharlieJ]

How does "voltage dropping to around 12.1" determine that the alternator is bad? Wouldn't some voltage drop be expected when using many of the car's electrical systems at once?

 

[Donald]

Local rebuilder if you can find one.

 

[CarlB]

How does "voltage dropping to around 12.1" determine that the alternator is bad? Wouldn't some voltage drop be expected when using many of the car's electrical systems at once?

Somewhat related, modern voltage regulators are usually dynamic based on the BMS. So the voltage will fluctuate down below 14, above 13. If this is at idle when it drops and if only temporary, then I probably wouldn't sweat it.

 

[slacktide_bitog]

Get the Valeo

 

[Passport1]

I got a Bosch alternator from my old Volvo rebuilt locally last year for $90. Still working fine. I'd get your's rebuilt.

 

[Jackphom]

Somewhat related, modern voltage regulators are usually dynamic based on the BMS. So the voltage will fluctuate down below 14, above 13. If this is at idle when it drops and if only temporary, then I probably wouldn't sweat it.

Well, I've replaced this AGM battery 3 times within 2 years.
So this could be coincidental, charging system checks out but these alts usually do not show any issues on the local auto chain load checkers.

My last AGM lasted only 6k miles, I am guessing it's either under charging it causing a bad cell.

 

[benjy]

check ECS euro car service in ohio , fast delivery + good service! recently got a bosch rebuilt for mt 2001 TT, no new available. have a pro load check it while in the vehicle, advance auto or auto zone can test it as well NO charge!!

 

[drtyler]

What about the SEG new alternator at FCP for $250? I assume its new since there is no core charge. They are the group that now owns Bosch starters and alternators.

https://www.fcpeuro.com/products/audi-vw-alternator-seg-automotive-f000-bl0-829

 

[Jackphom]

I got a Bosch alternator from my old Volvo rebuilt locally last year for $90. Still working fine. I'd get your's rebuilt.

If it's that cheap, I might just buy a OEM used one from eBay and just get it rebuilt.

Thanks!

 

[Jackphom]

What about the SEG new alternator at FCP for $250? I assume its new since there is no core charge. They are the group that now owns Bosch starters and alternators.

https://www.fcpeuro.com/products/audi-vw-alternator-seg-automotive-f000-bl0-829

I saw that one, it's made in Mexico. I'm assuming it is a reman even though there's no core charge?

 

[drtyler]

I saw that one, it's made in Mexico. I'm assuming it is a reman even though there's no core charge?

Bosch/SEG has a large facility in Mexico for new production of alternators and starters. Likely for VW and BMW who have manufacturing in Mexico.

I think the difference in cost between it and the one in the VW box is the VW markup.

In the listing for the new VW alternator on ECS website, the sticker on the rear states Mexico.

 

[Trav]

The Valeo may be made in China, I would get the SEG or used OE.

 

[oldcodger]

Get yours rebuilt. I have never had a locally rebuilt alternator or starter go bad. They give OEM service. On the other hand I have had the 'lifetime warranty' rebuilds last a year or two.