OEM Mopar Alternators Online

Shop OEM Mopar Alternators in McKinney TX

A faulty alternator can mean the Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, RAM, or FIAT vehicle you love not running right, ending up on the side of the road or in an accident. If your alternator shows signs it's failing, take our advice: swap it out sooner rather than later. Here at OEM Mopar Parts Store, we stock one of the best selections of manufacturer-quality replacements in Texas, let alone the US. We price competitively, too, not to mention ship fast, anywhere nationwide; take advantage -- order now.

All About Mopar Alternators

What an Alternator Does

Because it's a key part of the charging system in your vehicle, it helps power things -- the car battery, many electrical systems, everything from the instrumentation to the power windows, electronics, steering system, and windshield wipers.

How Alternators Work

In short, by turning mechanical energy (the movement of parts) into electrical energy (electricity). The process starts with the engine, which moves the serpentine belt and drive belts, a pulley, a rotor shaft, and a set of magnetic coils. This generates an electrical field. A rectifier captures AC power from the field, converting it into DC power managed by a voltage regulator.

The Causes of Alternator Failure

• Parts gone bad
• An overtightened belt
• Installing incompatible accessories
• Jump-starting incorrectly

Although an alternator can stop working seemingly for no reason, without warning, there are some telltale signs that's happening that you can keep an eye out for.

Symptoms of a Defective Alternator

• Lighting and electronics malfunctions
• Battery and alternator warning lights on the instrumentation
• A dying or dead battery
• Alternator fluid leaks
• Engine squeaks
• A burning smell around the battery or alternator

In such cases, inspect the alternator, testing the charging system, too; change any parts that the results recommend.

When to Replace the Alternator in Your Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, RAM, or FIAT Vehicle

Every 7 years. Otherwise, every 80,000 miles or so -- whichever comes first. Don't wait to take care of the job any longer than every 150,000 miles. Review the maintenance schedule in your owner's manual for your model's specifics.

How to Install an Alternator

It involves battery disconnection, wire detachment, moving a tensioner pulley, and some bolt removal, but once you've done that, it's just a matter of taking off the old one, putting in the new, and replacing everything the way you found it. Just be sure to consult your owner's documentation or the manufacturer's instructions for process-specifics, and use a genuine OEM replacement alternator for best results. If you need help with the work, get in touch with a CDJR dealer.