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Saturn Other Repair Question


Topics covered: Alternator, Radio, Battery.
Mileage: No information provided.

Asked on March 2, 2006

Replacing alternator - rip off?

I had my alternator replaced recently - but when i picked up my car all the radio stations were still in place. Shouldn't my radio settings have been lost because in order to change the alternator the battery would need to be disconnected?

Are they trying to rip me off?
Avatar Asked by allengmbls

Answer

Replied on March 3, 2006



No. The battery cable runs to the starter solenoid. Then a smaller wire runs from the starter to the alternator. Time is money for a pro so they don't take any extra steps. You could also just pull the 30 amp fuse (ignition 3) for the ignition circuit in the underhood fuse box. To be sure just take a look underneath for a shiny new alternator case.

Alternator failure is common on higher mileage saturns. The alt is located behind the engine and gets a lot of heat and no airflow. Had to have mine rebuilt at 115,000 miles.

Happy motoring. :)

Tiny Answered by peppermrj
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