Quick Look
The 2013 INFINITI JX35 uses a 12-volt, belt-driven alternator (also called a generator or charging unit) that delivers about 150 amps to keep the battery and every onboard gadget alive. (amazon.com, ebay.com) When this part wears out you may notice dim headlights, warning lights, or even stalling because the vehicle is running only on stored battery power. (auto.howstuffworks.com) The JX35 was sold for one model year before being renamed QX60, so its alternator also fits many early QX60 and some Nissan Pathfinder models that share the same 3.5-liter VQ35DE engine. (en.wikipedia.org, rareelectrical.com) Typical repair bills run roughly $1,300-$1,600 in the U.S., parts and labor combined, though prices vary by region. (repairpal.com)
What It Does
An alternator is a small electrical generator that turns engine rotation into alternating current (AC), then converts it to direct current (DC) to recharge the battery and power lights, pumps, and computers while you drive. (en.wikipedia.org, auto.howstuffworks.com) It relies on a pulley and the serpentine belt; if that belt slips or breaks, the alternator stops spinning and the charging system warning light comes on. (championautoparts.com)
JX35 Specs
| Item | Detail |
| Engine | 3.5 L VQ35DE V6 |
| Stock alternator rating | ~150 amps, 12 V |
| Pulley type | 7-groove |
| Voltage regulator | Built-in, ECU-monitored |
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The factory alternator mounts low on the passenger side of the engine with two main bolts and one wiring plug. (charm.li)
Signs of Trouble
Diagnosis
Replacement Cost
RepairPal lists an average alternator replacement cost for the JX35 at $1,272-$1,580 (labor $659-$967; parts ≈ $613). (repairpal.com) Prices drop if you choose remanufactured units or do-it-yourself labor, but always factor in a fresh belt and tensioner if they show wear. (repairpal.com, repairpal.com)
Install Steps
Lifespan & Warranty
Most factory alternators last 90,000-120,000 miles or 7-10 years under normal loads. (auto.howstuffworks.com) Many remanufactured replacements carry a limited lifetime warranty; always keep your receipt.
Eco & Safety
Used alternators contain aluminum, copper, and steel that can be recycled-drop the old unit at a metal recycler or auto-electric shop. Proper recycling prevents heavy-metal contamination in landfills. Batteries should be recycled at authorized centers, too.
For open recalls or safety campaigns on your JX35's electrical system, check the free INFINITI Recall Lookup or the U.S. NHTSA database. (infinitiusa.com, carpro.com)
Compatibility
The 150-amp alternator used on the 2013 JX35 also fits:
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What size belt drives the alternator?
A: The JX35 uses a 7-rib serpentine belt (Infiniti #11720-6TA0A). (parts.infinitiusa.com)
Q: Can I drive with a bad alternator if the battery is new?
A: Only for a short time; once battery voltage drops below ~12 V the engine and power steering can shut down.
Q: Why do the battery and brake lights come on together?
A: On many Nissan/Infiniti dashboards these two lights illuminate when the charging system voltage is low. (reddit.com)
Q: What voltage should I see at idle?
A: Around 13.5-14.5 V with all accessories off. Anything under 13 V signals a charging issue. (autozone.com)
Q: Does the alternator have an external voltage regulator?
A: No. The regulator is integrated into the alternator housing and managed by the ECU.
Q: How long does a swap take for an experienced DIYer?
A: Plan on 1.5-2 hours with basic hand tools and a floor jack.
Q: Are high-output units safe for stock wiring?
A: Outputs above 200 amps need heavier-gauge charge cables and secure grounds to prevent overheating. (js-alternators.com)
Q: Is there a recall on the JX35 alternator?
A: No alternator-specific recall is listed, but always verify your VIN on the recall lookup pages mentioned above. (infinitiusa.com)
Q: What causes early alternator failure?
A: Over-tight belts, oil leaks dripping onto the pulley, repeated deep-cycle battery drains, or aftermarket audio loads without wiring upgrades. (auto.howstuffworks.com)
Q: Can a weak alternator trigger other trouble codes?
A: Yes. Low voltage can set random misfire or sensor-related codes, so test the charging system before replacing other parts. (justanswer.com)
Need more details? The 2013 INFINITI JX35 Owner's Manual includes torque figures and wiring diagrams for the charging system, available for free download in PDF form. (cdn.dealereprocess.org)
For deeper reading on how a car generator works, visit HowStuffWorks' explainer or the technical overview on the Alternator Wikipedia page. (auto.howstuffworks.com, en.wikipedia.org)
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