Having to keep replacing the alternator

AZALIAS_UNICORNS

MEMBER
2002 TOYOTA CAMRY
2.4L
4 CYL
TURBO
2WD
AUTOMATIC
136,000 MILES

My alternator went out resulting from a bad battery. I bought a new batter and new alternator, however I am now through my fourth alternator all within a week; one last 3 days and 2 lasted a day and now a new one is in my car. The first 3 were same brands the new one that is in my car now is a different brand. If this one goes out then what is happening to my car?

Saturday, September 19th, 2020 AT 9:53 PM

1 Reply

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
110,176 POSTS

Hi,

I have a feeling that the problem is related to the brand you first had. There really isn't a lot to cause one to fail. I attached a pic of the entire wiring schematic for the charging system. If you take a look, note there really isn't much that would cause it. The alternator is internally regulated and is protected by fusible links and fuses to prevent damage.

Do me a favor. Now the new one is in, check alternator output. All you need is a multi meter or volt meter to do it. Here is a link that explains how to check it. Do this and let me know what readings you get.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-a-car-alternator

Let me know.

Joe

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