My alternator went out it appears
10-31-2013, 08:35 AM
#1
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My Ride: 08 528I Sport/Prem
My alternator went out it appears
Sup guys,
My alternator went out it appears since my battery keeps dieing on me and I went and got it and the alternator checked to find out the alt is bad. I have been doing some research and found out my car could either have the 150amp alternator or the 180amp. Prices vary wildly for both types with the 180 being wayyyy more money. After some research I found that if you have comfort/heated seats, you probably have the 180amp, which I do have those seats.
The prices I'm finding online for the alternator:
~$218+ USD for the 150amp
$359+ USD and beyond for the 180amp. I've seen them be as much as $600
I'm going to make the purchase tomorrow and replace it over the weekend. I'm just trying to make sure I have the 180 instead of the 150.
Two months ago I replaced all the pullys including the tensioner pully. I wish the alternator went before I replaced those because now I have to remove all the same stuff to replace the alt. Fun fun fun lol
My alternator went out it appears since my battery keeps dieing on me and I went and got it and the alternator checked to find out the alt is bad. I have been doing some research and found out my car could either have the 150amp alternator or the 180amp. Prices vary wildly for both types with the 180 being wayyyy more money. After some research I found that if you have comfort/heated seats, you probably have the 180amp, which I do have those seats.
The prices I'm finding online for the alternator:
~$218+ USD for the 150amp
$359+ USD and beyond for the 180amp. I've seen them be as much as $600
I'm going to make the purchase tomorrow and replace it over the weekend. I'm just trying to make sure I have the 180 instead of the 150.
Two months ago I replaced all the pullys including the tensioner pully. I wish the alternator went before I replaced those because now I have to remove all the same stuff to replace the alt. Fun fun fun lol
Last edited by Luxurytax; 10-31-2013 at 08:39 AM.
10-31-2013, 08:58 AM
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My Ride: 07 550i Sports Package
Model Year: 2007
Why not just go to real oem or call the dealer and get a part number? I have an 07 550 and it uses 180amp.
If you don't mind take some pictures or video and post back. I plan on doing this sometime soon.
If you don't mind take some pictures or video and post back. I plan on doing this sometime soon.
10-31-2013, 11:50 AM
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The $218 price suggests a rebuilt alternator. There is a great variance in the quality, completeness and proper testing of alternator rebuilds. Alternator replacement is not terribly difficult but time consuming given all that must be removed. Rebuilt alternators have great warranties, but the labor is on you if it doesn't work right after a few months.
For such a critical component, IMHO using a brand new OE alternator is worth the difference in money. For my 545i the OE Valeo alternator brand new was $283 delivered (last year). Right now you should be able to find the correct 180amp unit brand new for your car for around $325 delivered.
For such a critical component, IMHO using a brand new OE alternator is worth the difference in money. For my 545i the OE Valeo alternator brand new was $283 delivered (last year). Right now you should be able to find the correct 180amp unit brand new for your car for around $325 delivered.
Last edited by BimmerFan52; 10-31-2013 at 11:53 AM.
10-31-2013, 11:51 AM
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My Ride: BMW
Model Year: 2006
Yup on the vid and DIY! Also if you can take a pic of the alternator's part number while it is installed on the car, that would be helpful.
10-31-2013, 12:18 PM
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My Ride: 08 528I Sport/Prem
Where are you seeing one for $325?
Looks like this will be my best deal
Buy Bosch Alternator - Remanufactured - 180 Amps AL0841X at Advance Auto Parts
They are having a 15% off sale right now with a $25 coupon. After all deductions, my out of pocket will be $360 for a OEM Bosh Alternator.
Also, I'll document everything since I realized there is no write ups on replacing the alternator on this website.
Thanks guys
Looks like this will be my best deal
Buy Bosch Alternator - Remanufactured - 180 Amps AL0841X at Advance Auto Parts
They are having a 15% off sale right now with a $25 coupon. After all deductions, my out of pocket will be $360 for a OEM Bosh Alternator.
Also, I'll document everything since I realized there is no write ups on replacing the alternator on this website.
Thanks guys
Last edited by Luxurytax; 10-31-2013 at 12:35 PM.
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