Alternators

What is an Alternator?

It's a critical part of the charging system in your Nissan vehicle -- one without which the ride you love couldn't run at all.

What Does it Do?

It transforms mechanical energy into electrical energy -- put simply, it turns the movement of parts into electricity. In doing so, it charges your vehicle's battery, runs its dash lights and instrumentation, power windows, and electronics, and powers many other electrical systems -- for instance, the steering and windshield wipers.

How Does it Work?

As part of a process that begins with the engine, serpentine and drive belts, a pulley, and a rotor shaft, and ends with a set of magnetic coils. Their movement creates a magnetic field whose energy a rectifier captures as AC power. The rectifier converts the current to DC power, managed by a voltage regulator.

Why Do Alternators Fail?

For one, their parts can degrade or get damaged. Secondly, the alternator belt can be overtightened. Thirdly, an incorrect jump-start or incompatible accessories install can cause it. Failure often happens without any warning.

What are the Signs One's Going Bad?

There are many, including battery and alternator warning lights on the dash, malfunctioning lighting and electronics, and a squeaky engine. You may also notice that your battery's dead, along with a burning smell under the hood, near the battery or the alternator itself. You may even notice an alternator fluid leak.

See any of these? Inspect your alternator. Then, test the charging system. Replace whatever the results of both call for.

When Do I Change One Otherwise?

Every 80,000 miles at minimum, every 150,000 miles at maximum, or every 7 years, whichever comes first. For further instructions on what to do, plus more information on when and how to do it, check your owner's manual's maintenance schedule. Before you order a new alternator, though, be sure it's the genuine article.

Why Buy Genuine OEM?

Nissan manufactures its alternators guaranteed to fit its cars, trucks, SUVs, and vans. It follows that one made for your model will fit it from the get-go. The alternator aftermarket can't always assure the same.

Where Can I Order Replacement Nissan Alternators Online?

At our auto parts store. We keep our prices as affordable as possible for the do-it-yourselfer as well. Simply browse our catalog by model and model year; it'll help you find what's compatible for more easily. Buy now and we'll ship fast, directly to your door.