With the rising cost of new alternators, many car owners are looking for remanufactured alternators as a cost-effective alternative. But are remanufactured alternators any good?
In this article, we’ll explore the advantages and disadvantages of remanufactured alternators and how to ensure you’re getting a quality product with exceptional buying tips.
How Is A Remanufactured Alternator Different from a New One?
An alternator works like an electrical generator that generates electrical energy when the engine is running. It is a type of rotary electrical machine and is commonly found in vehicles, where it is used to recharge the battery and power the internal electrical system in the form of alternating current.
On the other hand, remanufactured alternators are a great option for those looking to replace their vehicle’s alternator at an affordable price. They offer the same quality and performance as a brand-new part but at a fraction of the cost.
Remanufactured alternators are rebuilt using only high-quality parts and are tested to ensure they meet or exceed the standards of a new part. They are also backed by a warranty to ensure they will last as long as a new alternator.
With remanufactured alternators, you can save money and still get the same performance. So in this point we can say that yes remanufactured alternators are good.
The following table shows the distinctions between a new alternator and a remanufactured one clearly.
| Features | New Alternator | Remanufactured Alternator |
| Condition | The whole alternator is made from 100% brand-new material. | Only the wearable parts are made from brand-new materials. |
| Age | It lasts 6 to 7 years, 100,000-150,000 miles on average. | It lasts 4 to 5 years, 50,000-100,000 miles at best. |
| Cost | Comparatively high, costs between $200-$500 or more. | Relatively affordable, costs between $150-$300. |
Are Remanufactured Alternators Good? Overview Of Remanufactured Alternators
Jim Trainor, a Quora member, shared his experience-
“I recently installed remanufactured Denso alternators in two different cars. After much research, I concluded that a high-quality remanufactured unit was a better option than an economy new alternator. A new OEM alternator was too expensive.”
Benefits of Remanufactured Alternators
Remanufactured alternators offer many benefits to consumers. The positive sides of remanufactured alternators include the following:
- Cost-saving: The most obvious benefit of a remanufactured alternator is that it will save money. Remanufactured alternators cost significantly less than buying a brand-new part from the dealership. A remanufactured alternator can save you about 25% of the cost.
- Increased Efficiency: In addition to cost savings, remanufactured alternators are built to meet or exceed the original manufacturer’s specs, so you can rest assured knowing that you are getting a quality part.
- Environment-friendly: Remanufactured alternators also help to reduce the environmental impact of manufacturing new parts. By reusing parts, we can help reduce the amount of waste in landfills and conserve natural resources.
- Easier to install: Remanufactured alternators are often easier to install than a brand-new part, saving you time and money on installation costs.
Drawbacks of Remanufactured Alternators
The drawbacks of remanufactured alternators are as below:
- Lower Quality Control: Compared to new alternators, remanufactured alternators may not have the same level of quality control and may not be as reliable.
- Warranty: Many remanufactured alternators come with a shorter warranty than new alternators, so if something fails, you may have to pay for a replacement.
- Hidden Cost: While remanufactured alternators can be cheaper than new alternators, there is always a potential for hidden costs if something fails or needs to be repaired.
- Availability: Depending on the model of your car, the availability of remanufactured alternators may be limited.
- Might Not be Compatible: Remanufactured alternators may not be compatible with all cars, so it’s important to research to make sure the one you choose will work with your car.
Buying Tips For Remanufactured Alternators
When shopping for a remanufactured alternator, it is important to make sure that you are getting a quality product. These tips will help you to make the right decision when buying a remanufactured alternator.
- Check the Manufacturer’s Reputation: Do some research on the company that is offering the alternator to make sure they have a good track record of providing quality parts and services.
- Ask for a Warranty: Make sure the alternator comes with a warranty so you can rest assured of getting a backup product.
- Inspect the Alternator: Before making a purchase decision, ensure that the alternator is in good condition and that all the parts are in working order.
- Get a Second Opinion: Ask a professional mechanic to inspect the alternator for you before purchasing it.
- Compare Prices: Do some research to find the best price for the remanufactured alternator.
Follow these tips to find a quality remanufactured alternator that will last you for many years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long do remanufactured alternators last?
On average, a remanufactured alternator can last between four to six years, about 50,000 to 100,000 miles on average. However, the longevity of your alternator can depend on the make, model, and usage of your car. Proper maintenance and care of your alternator is the best way to ensure that it lasts longer than expected.
What’s the difference between a remanufactured alternator and a new one?
The main difference between a remanufactured alternator and a new one is that a remanufactured alternator has been rebuilt from used parts. The remanufactured alternator has been inspected and tested for quality assurance and is typically reassembled with new internal parts, such as bearings, brushes, and bushings. A new alternator is built from all-new components and is usually more expensive than the remanufactured option. However, the new alternator may come with a longer warranty and may be more reliable.
Which is better: a new or remanufactured alternator?
New alternators are typically more expensive than remanufactured alternators, but they come with a warranty and guarantee that the part will work. However, remanufactured alternators are usually more affordable and can be just as reliable as new alternators. Ultimately, it’s best to weigh the cost and reliability of each option to determine which is the best for you.
Conclusion
Are remanufactured alternators good? New or remanufactured, the choice is yours. They can be a great option for those looking for a cost-effective alternative to purchasing a brand-new alternator. They come with all the same benefits as a new alternator, such as improved performance and reliability, and can be easily installed with minimal effort.
Furthermore, remanufactured alternators are typically covered by a limited warranty. With all these advantages, remanufactured alternators are definitely a good option for those looking to save money while still enjoying the same quality of performance as a brand-new alternator.
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