Last night my '95 C36 was totally dead after work, no lights, no cranking. I had the battery tested, it was shot so I replaced it. Today it starts acting funny, with the ASC, ABS, and SRS lights coming on at a stoplight. Also, the turn signal blinker started blinking erratically. Giving the car gas made the issue go away. I headed home quickly. Battery tested at 8 V, now the car won't start.

So, I'm thinking dying alternator. Any surefire way to diagnose prior to dropping the money? Anything worth cleaning first? Is 97k miles normal for a '95 C36 alternator?

Maybe the brushes on the voltage regulator are worn out? not un-common at that mileage.

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puppy, replacing the voltage regulator is a very simple DIY job ... 2 screws secure it to the back of the alternator. You can buy a new one online for around $30. Replace the voltage regulator, then jump start your car or use a charger to replenish the battery.

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Fred Hoelzle

Thanks guys, I did exactly that this morning. I purchased a new alternator, but then swapped it's new voltage regulator onto my still-installed alternator. After jumping the car quickly sputtered and died. So I guess I'm stuck replacing the entire thing.

Any tips/tricks to alternator replacement on a W202 C36?