1977 Mercedes 240D (W123.123) - replaced the originial alternator at 206k. That alternator died later that same day. The replacement for that one died later that week. The replacement for that one died a week later. Shop threw out the whole run and started with a new set. That alternator is still running fine on the car (280k).

1992 Chevy S-10 - original replaced at about 80k. Replacement died at 130k. That replacement is still running on the vehicle (or was when I sold it a few months back).

1990 BMW 520i. No problems while I owned it.

1988 Mercedes 300TE - prior to my purchase, the alternator had been rebuilt at 87k again at 198k. Full replacement at 210k. It's been about two weeks, so far so good.

1998 Toyota Avalon - Original alternator replaced under warrenty from dealer. Replacement died today (just after the warrenty expired).


So that's what? a dozen alternators across 5 cars in a 15 year span. I replace alternators more often than tires. What could I possibly be doing to cause this?

__________________
Lifetime owner
1977 240D

"new" owner
1988 300TE