A Practical Guide to the 1987-1999 Mercury Tracer Alternator
Everything you need to know when your Tracer's charging system fails.
- A failing alternator will give clear warning signs like dimming lights, a battery warning light on the dash, and whining noises.
- You can confirm a bad alternator with a simple multimeter test; voltage should be ~14V at the battery when the engine is running.
- For 1997-1999 models, ensure you are buying a part for the 2.0L SOHC engine, not the DOHC engine from the Escort ZX2.
- Replacement is a feasible DIY job for those with some mechanical skill, but buying from a local store with a good warranty is wise for easy returns.
Is Your Mercury Tracer Alternator Failing?
When the alternator in your Tracer starts to go bad, it usually gives you a few warning signs. Since a complete failure can leave you stranded, it's important to recognize these symptoms early. The most common issues you'll notice are electrical problems.
Critical Compatibility Note for 1997-1999 Models
The 1997-1999 Mercury Tracer uses a 2.0L SOHC engine and a 75-amp alternator. This is different from the alternator used in the Ford Escort ZX2 coupe's 2.0L DOHC engine. Always confirm your engine type before ordering a part.
Common Symptoms of a Bad Alternator
- Battery Warning Light: The most obvious sign is a dashboard light shaped like a battery or one that says "ALT" or "GEN". This light indicates that the system's voltage has dropped because the alternator isn't charging correctly.
- Dim or Flickering Lights: You may notice your headlights, dash lights, and interior lights dimming, especially at idle, and then brightening as you rev the engine. An alternator with a bad voltage regulator can also cause lights to be overly bright.
- Whining or Grinding Noises: A high-pitched whine that changes with engine speed often points to failing bearings inside the alternator. A more severe grinding noise means the bearings are completely worn and failure is imminent.
- Weak or Dead Battery: A bad alternator can't recharge the battery, so you may find the car is hard to start or completely dead, even with a relatively new battery. The car may start with a jump, but will likely stall again once the jumper cables are removed.
- Malfunctioning Accessories: Electrical components may act strangely. Power windows might be slow, the radio could cut out, or the speedometer might behave erratically because they aren't receiving stable voltage.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Alternator
For an older vehicle like the 1987-1999 Tracer, a new OEM alternator from a dealer is often too expensive. The aftermarket offers new and remanufactured options from several brands. The quality of remanufactured parts can be inconsistent, regardless of the brand.
Pro Tip: Many owners recommend buying an alternator from a local auto parts store that offers a lifetime warranty. If the replacement part fails, exchanging it is much easier than dealing with online returns and shipping.
Aftermarket Brand Tiers
- New Aftermarket (WAI Global): WAI is one of the few brands offering completely new alternators, not remanufactured ones. Some owners prefer this to avoid the risks of a remanufactured unit. However, like any aftermarket part, quality can vary.
- Remanufactured (BBB Industries, MPA, Remy): These brands are major suppliers of remanufactured alternators. BBB Industries supplies parts for many auto parts stores, sometimes under the store's own brand name. Remy is a long-standing name, now associated with BBB, with mixed reviews from users. MPA's Quality-Built line is another common option. With any remanufactured part, the unit is only as good as the components that were replaced, making them a "hit or miss" option for some.
Estimated Replacement Costs
The cost for a new aftermarket alternator for a 1987-1999 Mercury Tracer typically falls within the range below. Remanufactured units are usually on the lower end of the price spectrum, while brand-new units are on the higher end.
| Part Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Alternator | $98 - $308 |
| Shop Labor | $100 - $150 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $198 - $458 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How can I test my alternator at home?
The easiest way is with a multimeter. Set it to DC volts. With the car off, check the battery voltage; a healthy battery should be 12.4-12.6 volts. Then, start the engine. The voltage at the battery should rise to between 13.7 and 14.7 volts. If the voltage doesn't increase or stays around 12V, the alternator is not charging and has likely failed.
Are there any recalls on the Tracer alternator?
No, there have been no specific recalls issued by the NHTSA for the alternator on any 1987-1999 Mercury Tracer.
Should I replace the serpentine belt at the same time?
Yes, it is highly recommended. The belt must be removed to replace the alternator, so it's the perfect time to install a new one. A worn belt can cause a new alternator to perform poorly or fail prematurely.
What is a "core charge"?
When you buy a remanufactured alternator, you will often pay an extra fee called a core charge. This charge is refunded to you when you return your old, failed alternator to the parts store. This allows the manufacturer to rebuild your old part and keep costs down.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: F7CU10300CB F7CU10300CE F7CUCB F7CUCE F7CZ10346CB F7CZ10346CBRM1 F7PU10346CB F7PUCB GL367 GL487
Amperage varies by engine and year. The common alternator for the 1997-1999 2.0L SOHC engine is a 75 Amp Ford 3G unit with a 6-groove serpentine pulley. Alternators for the 1.9L engine are often 95 Amp units with a 5-groove pulley. Always verify the specifications for your exact vehicle.
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Mercury Tracer: