My car won't start yesterday. I went to Autozone, they checked my battery and told me that might be need replace the alternator. They have used parts from Volvo is around $200, new parts $600. If I go to dealer, it will be above $800. It's a 9 years car with 140000 miles. I just used it to pick up kids, will not drive a lot. Is it necessary to get a new one and replace it in dealer's place?

 

The alternator is controlled by the ECM and therefore must be able to communicate with the ECM. I have seen some aftermarket ones come in and need replacement because they are not compatible.

 

Agree with above. The alternator on that model will require removing a lot of components just to get to the alternator. Even though this video is an XC90, it is the 3.2 engine which you have. If it is the 3.0 turbo, the operation is similar but with more piping to remove.


There is no way I would install a used or unknown alternator given the work required.

Rock Auto has the Bosch OE alternator available and that's the one that I would recommend. They list two different amp units. Yours would have the amps shown.

https://www.rockauto.com/en/catalog/...generator,2412

 

The job isn't very difficult. It only pays 1.5 hours if I remember correctly. The turbo intake is actually easier to remove than non-turbo.

 

For most DIY people, the actual time for the job is probably 3X the book time. The book times assumes that you've done the job before and are familiar with all of the fasteners, tools, etc.

For this poster, I recommended that they seek high quality parts because this is something that they probably don't want to do again. I am very experienced and I doubt that I could do the entire job in 90 minutes.

 

I agree with using quality parts. But the job really is not as difficult as you made it seem (somehow without ever actually doing the job).

 

I have actually done the job a few times. Not only would I recommend a Bosch unit, I'd also recommend changing the coupling as they get worn after the age and mileage associated with the vehicle.