How long should an alternator last?

+1 vote
asked Feb 8, 2019 in Other-Cars/Transportation by ermawz4 (370 points)
How long should an alternator last?

2 Answers

+1 vote
answered Feb 8, 2019 by Essmann (42,860 points)
Alternators on vehicles should last from 7 years to even 20 years before needing replaced.

It depends on how often you drive the vehicle too.

I have a truck that has the original alternator on it since it was new 20 years ago but I think I'm gonna replace the alternator soon just to prevent problems.

The most common reason an alternator fails is due to a bad diode or regulator and when that happens it's best to replace the alternator with a new one.
0 votes
answered Feb 8, 2019 by Grahlu (51,270 points)
Alternators have a recommended lifespan of 7 to 10 years depending on how you maintain the vehicle and if you replace the battery often enough which is around every 5 years you can help prevent electrical problems and increase the lifespan of your alternator.

Although if your alternator lasts 10 years then you've gotten a good life out of the alternator.

98,443 questions

94,801 answers

1,270 comments

6,992,621 users

...