OEM Alternator for 2020-2025 Buick & Chevrolet • Encore GX, Trailblazer

What to Look for When Buying This Part

• Check for physical damage, such as cracks or broken connectors.
• Ensure the pulley spins smoothly and quietly.
• Verify the part matches the specifications for your vehicle.
• Consider the warranty offered by the seller.

Quality Indicators for the Available Options

What's Typically Included with the Part

• The alternator itself.
• Sometimes, the pulley is included, but not always.
• Mounting hardware may or may not be included.
• Check the product description carefully to see what's included.

Difficulty Level and Estimated Time

• Difficulty: Intermediate.
• Estimated Time: 1-3 hours.

Special Tools Needed (if any)

• Socket set.
• Wrench set.
• Multimeter.
• Serpentine belt tool (optional, but helpful).
• Torque wrench.

Critical Steps and Tips

1. Disconnect the battery: Always disconnect the negative battery cable before working on electrical components.
2. Remove the serpentine belt: Use a serpentine belt tool or wrench to release the tension on the belt and remove it from the alternator pulley.
3. Disconnect the wiring: Disconnect the electrical connectors from the alternator.
4. Remove the old alternator: Unbolt the alternator from its mounting bracket and carefully remove it.
5. Install the new alternator: Install the new alternator in the mounting bracket and bolt it in place.
6. Reconnect the wiring: Reconnect the electrical connectors to the alternator.
7. Reinstall the serpentine belt: Route the serpentine belt around the alternator pulley and use the tensioner to tighten the belt.
8. Reconnect the battery: Reconnect the negative battery cable.

Whether DIY is Recommended or Professional Installation is Better

• DIY is possible for mechanically inclined individuals. However, professional installation is recommended if you are not comfortable working on electrical systems or if you lack the necessary tools.

Compare: Used OEM, Refurbished OEM, New Aftermarket

Choosing the right alternator depends on your budget and needs. Here's a breakdown of your options:

Used OEM

• Description: Genuine factory parts that have been removed from vehicles. They are tested and inspected to ensure they are in good working condition.
• Pros: Best value, genuine factory parts, tested and inspected, significantly lower prices.
• Cons: May have some cosmetic wear and tear.

Refurbished OEM

• Description: Factory parts that have been professionally restored with new components.
• Pros: Factory parts, professionally restored, minimal wear and tear.
• Cons: More expensive than used OEM.

New Aftermarket

• Description: Brand new third-party parts built to meet or exceed OE specifications.
• Pros: Brand new, often more affordable than new OEM parts.
• Cons: Quality can vary depending on the manufacturer.

Parts Commonly Replaced or Checked at the Same Time

• Battery.
• Serpentine belt.
• Belt tensioner.
• Battery terminals and cables.
• Fuses and relays related to the charging system.

Why Replacing Related Parts Prevents Repeat Failures

• Replacing worn or damaged related parts can prevent premature failure of the new alternator. For example, a worn serpentine belt can cause the alternator to not function correctly, while a weak battery can put extra strain on the alternator.

How Long This Part Normally Lasts

• An alternator typically lasts between 5 and 10 years or 80,000 to 150,000 miles.

Factors that Affect Longevity

• Driving habits.
• Climate.
• Electrical load on the system.
• Maintenance of the charging system.
• Quality of the replacement part.

Budget vs Mid-Range vs Premium Options

• Used OEM: $75 - $150
• Refurbished OEM: $125 - $250
• New Aftermarket: $100 - $300

Labor Cost Considerations if Applicable

• Labor costs for alternator replacement typically range from $100 to $300, depending on the shop and the complexity of the job.

Total Job Cost Estimates

• Used OEM: $175 - $450
• Refurbished OEM: $225 - $550
• New Aftermarket: $200 - $600

Known Issues for This Vehicle's System Related to This Part

• Some owners have reported issues with the factory alternators failing prematurely on these vehicles.
• Check for any recalls or technical service bulletins (TSBs) related to the charging system.

Any TSBs or Common Complaints

• It's always a good idea to check with your local dealer or online resources for any TSBs related to the alternator or charging system on your specific vehicle.

How to Confirm Proper Operation

• Start the engine and check the battery voltage with a multimeter. It should be between 13.5 and 14.5 volts.
• Turn on the headlights, air conditioning, and other electrical accessories to see if the alternator can handle the load.
• Check the battery warning light on the dashboard. It should be off.

What to Look/Listen for to Verify It's Working Correctly

• The engine should start easily and run smoothly.
• The headlights should be bright and steady.
• There should be no strange noises coming from the alternator.
• The battery warning light should remain off.

Q: How do I know if my alternator is bad or if it's just my battery?
A: A simple test is to jump-start your car. If it runs fine after the jump start but dies again soon after, the alternator is likely the problem. If the car doesn't start even with a jump, the battery is likely the issue. It's always best to have both tested.

Q: Can I drive my car with a bad alternator?
A: It's not recommended. A bad alternator can cause your car to stall, leaving you stranded. It can also damage other electrical components.

Q: How long does it take to replace an alternator?
A: The replacement process typically takes between 1 and 3 hours, depending on the vehicle and the mechanic's experience.

Q: What happens if I don't replace my alternator?
A: If you don't replace a bad alternator, your car will eventually stop running. You may also experience damage to other electrical components, such as the battery.

Q: Is it difficult to replace an alternator myself?
A: Replacing an alternator is an intermediate-level repair. If you're comfortable working on cars and have the necessary tools, you may be able to do it yourself. However, if you're not experienced, it's best to have a professional do it.

OEM Part Numbers:

• GM: 13526558, 42774727, 42851507, 42911849

Fits Years: 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025