How long does the C32 alternator usually last?
#1
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From: San Diego
2002 C32 Black/Charcoal
How long does the C32 alternator usually last?
Hey!
Was driving on Friday when suddenly a message comes on the C32 multifunction display saying something like "charging system fault." A few minutes later, it says, "Warning, low voltage, consumer fault."
I am thinking that my alternator died. I have 57K miles on the car. Does this sound like the alternator to you? If so, anyone know where to get the best deal on an alternator?
Gracias
Was driving on Friday when suddenly a message comes on the C32 multifunction display saying something like "charging system fault." A few minutes later, it says, "Warning, low voltage, consumer fault."
I am thinking that my alternator died. I have 57K miles on the car. Does this sound like the alternator to you? If so, anyone know where to get the best deal on an alternator?
Gracias
#2
Hey!
Was driving on Friday when suddenly a message comes on the C32 multifunction display saying something like "charging system fault." A few minutes later, it says, "Warning, low voltage, consumer fault."
I am thinking that my alternator died. I have 57K miles on the car. Does this sound like the alternator to you? If so, anyone know where to get the best deal on an alternator?
Gracias
Was driving on Friday when suddenly a message comes on the C32 multifunction display saying something like "charging system fault." A few minutes later, it says, "Warning, low voltage, consumer fault."
I am thinking that my alternator died. I have 57K miles on the car. Does this sound like the alternator to you? If so, anyone know where to get the best deal on an alternator?
Gracias
However, when was the last time you replaced the battery? If it's the original in a 2002 C32, it's probably near the end of it's useful life.
#3
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From: Southern Cal
a C32 AMG & S-Works Tarmac
I could be the alternator - I had mine replaced at 60K. It was under warranty at the time so I don't have any information for you regarding a good deal on one.
However, when was the last time you replaced the battery? If it's the original in a 2002 C32, it's probably near the end of it's useful life.
However, when was the last time you replaced the battery? If it's the original in a 2002 C32, it's probably near the end of it's useful life.
Vomit, that was the exact same malfunction notification I received. The only way to tell for sure was to test for voltage output at the shop.
The dealer wanted about $1600 to replace. I did a little homework and found an independent to do it for about $600. Be warned though, the C32 uses a very specific alternator (with a non-replaceable voltage regulator) made by Valeo. You can't use the cheaper Bosch.
#4
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From: San Diego
2002 C32 Black/Charcoal
Thanks for the info folks. My battery is a couple of years old (Optima), so I am pretty sure that the battery is not the problem. Sounds like 60K is about when the alternator gives up the ghost.
Anyone know if the C32 alternator replacement is a DIY job (I am not a mechanic, but am capable)?
Anyone have any specifics on where to get the best deal on the alternator (the part itself)? There must be someone online selling them.(?)
Thanks!
Anyone know if the C32 alternator replacement is a DIY job (I am not a mechanic, but am capable)?
Anyone have any specifics on where to get the best deal on the alternator (the part itself)? There must be someone online selling them.(?)
Thanks!
#5
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From: San Diego
2002 C32 Black/Charcoal
Mine went out at 60K also. It was not covered under warranty though.
Vomit, that was the exact same malfunction notification I received. The only way to tell for sure was to test for voltage output at the shop.
The dealer wanted about $1600 to replace. I did a little homework and found an independent to do it for about $600. Be warned though, the C32 uses a very specific alternator (with a non-replaceable voltage regulator) made by Valeo. You can't use the cheaper Bosch.
Vomit, that was the exact same malfunction notification I received. The only way to tell for sure was to test for voltage output at the shop.
The dealer wanted about $1600 to replace. I did a little homework and found an independent to do it for about $600. Be warned though, the C32 uses a very specific alternator (with a non-replaceable voltage regulator) made by Valeo. You can't use the cheaper Bosch.
#6
For the C32, you need part # 112-154-02-02-88. This is the Valeo unit.
FWIW, here's a link where you can supposedly purchase the Valeo unit for $276.89. Personally, I think this is the pricing for the Bosch unit and it could be a mistake on the website - I'd call them and verify. If it is the right part (i.e. it's the Valeo unit), I'd snap it up because that's very cheap for a Valeo unit.
Also, I'm still not convinced that these alternators can't be remanufactured/reconditioned (if it's not a voltage regulator issue). When you remove your old alternator, please save it. If you don't want to check into repairing it, please allow me - I'll pay for shipping. If I can get it fixed, I'll give it back to you.
Last edited by boohooramblers; 09-01-2008 at 03:10 PM.
#7
I had the same problem about a month ago. It is most likely the alternator. I got mine from alleuropeanautoparts.com for $284 shipped, It is the correct Valeo unit and it comes with the poly on itm and it is new one not a rebuild. There is thread out there by FAIRFAXC32 I believe with a DIY. I am going to attempt to install it myself, hopefully today. I'll post my finding on how easy or difficult it is on my original thread. Hope this helps.
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#8
ScottW911 is correct. The Bosch unit definitely will not work (at least in the long-term; it doesn't put out enough voltage). Several forum members here have tried the Bosch unit. To my knowledge, it has been a truck-load of fail in each case.
For the C32, you need part # 112-154-02-02-88. This is the Valeo unit.
FWIW, here's a link where you can supposedly purchase the Valeo unit for $276.89. Personally, I think this is the pricing for the Bosch unit and it could be a mistake on the website - I'd call them and verify. If it is the right part (i.e. it's the Valeo unit), I'd snap it up because that's very cheap for a Valeo unit.
Also, I'm still not convinced that these alternators can't be remanufactured/reconditioned (if it's not a voltage regulator issue). When you remove your old alternator, please save it. If you don't want to check into repairing it, please allow me - I'll pay for shipping. If I can get it fixed, I'll give it back to you.
For the C32, you need part # 112-154-02-02-88. This is the Valeo unit.
FWIW, here's a link where you can supposedly purchase the Valeo unit for $276.89. Personally, I think this is the pricing for the Bosch unit and it could be a mistake on the website - I'd call them and verify. If it is the right part (i.e. it's the Valeo unit), I'd snap it up because that's very cheap for a Valeo unit.
Also, I'm still not convinced that these alternators can't be remanufactured/reconditioned (if it's not a voltage regulator issue). When you remove your old alternator, please save it. If you don't want to check into repairing it, please allow me - I'll pay for shipping. If I can get it fixed, I'll give it back to you.
I have the Bosch unit on mine and it's been fine
my original died at about 50k miles with similar symptoms
#9
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From: Southern Cal
a C32 AMG & S-Works Tarmac
My technician did the same thing. When he received the new Bosch unit, he found that it would not work and had to re-order the Valeo. I would just play it safe and get the Valeo, even if others feel the Bosch may work.
#10
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From: North Carolina
98 Black C43 , 08' ML320 CDI ,11 E63
I would replace the voltage regulator (usually a $20.00-$30.00 part) before I would do a alternator swap.I find it hard to believe a alternator would go in 5 years.
#11
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From: Southern Cal
a C32 AMG & S-Works Tarmac
I found out the expensive way.
#12
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From: North Carolina
98 Black C43 , 08' ML320 CDI ,11 E63
#13
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From: Ashburn, VA
2004 C32, 2006 Honda CBR1000RR, 2007 Harley NightRod, 2013 Harley Road Glide Custom
Hey!
Was driving on Friday when suddenly a message comes on the C32 multifunction display saying something like "charging system fault." A few minutes later, it says, "Warning, low voltage, consumer fault."
I am thinking that my alternator died. I have 57K miles on the car. Does this sound like the alternator to you? If so, anyone know where to get the best deal on an alternator?
Gracias
Was driving on Friday when suddenly a message comes on the C32 multifunction display saying something like "charging system fault." A few minutes later, it says, "Warning, low voltage, consumer fault."
I am thinking that my alternator died. I have 57K miles on the car. Does this sound like the alternator to you? If so, anyone know where to get the best deal on an alternator?
Gracias
knows what's around the corner.
#14
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From: San Diego
2002 C32 Black/Charcoal
I ordered the Valeo today from alleuropeanautoparts.com for $284 (free ship). Thanks to all of you who chipped in your .02!!
I will post my comments regarding my experience with the install when done.
Thanks again!
I will post my comments regarding my experience with the install when done.
Thanks again!
#16
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From: San Diego
2002 C32 Black/Charcoal
Alleuropean's unit is the Valeo, but with the wrong pulley. Napa Auto swapped the old pulley on to the new alternator for free.
Also, be advised that you will need a Torx 50 to do this project, in addition to sockets, etc. The removal (both the dismounting and the extraction) of the old alternator is a major PITA. Move hoses/plumbing liberally. I did not find it necessary to jack up the car and did not see the need to access alternator from below.
Main tip: When attempting to loosen the old alternator (after bolt removal), do not try to force it towards the rear of the car. Instead, move it towards the left (passenger side) to slide it out of the brackets. Try a piece of wood and a hammer, and hit it towards the left the best you can.
Also, be advised that you will need a Torx 50 to do this project, in addition to sockets, etc. The removal (both the dismounting and the extraction) of the old alternator is a major PITA. Move hoses/plumbing liberally. I did not find it necessary to jack up the car and did not see the need to access alternator from below.
Main tip: When attempting to loosen the old alternator (after bolt removal), do not try to force it towards the rear of the car. Instead, move it towards the left (passenger side) to slide it out of the brackets. Try a piece of wood and a hammer, and hit it towards the left the best you can.
#17
Also, I'm still not convinced that these alternators can't be remanufactured/reconditioned (if it's not a voltage regulator issue). When you remove your old alternator, please save it. If you don't want to check into repairing it, please allow me - I'll pay for shipping. If I can get it fixed, I'll give it back to you.
#18
How long ago did you get this done?
PM me if necessary.
#19
I am in the middle of the same procedure. The Valeo did come with wrong pully as Vomit stated. Vomit, is it working fine with just swapping the pulley?
And I do agree it is a major PITA. I just kept on reminding myself how much I am saving while using very explicit words . My dealer wanted to 2k to do the same thing. They quoted me 1k for the alternator and 1k for the labor .
And I do agree it is a major PITA. I just kept on reminding myself how much I am saving while using very explicit words . My dealer wanted to 2k to do the same thing. They quoted me 1k for the alternator and 1k for the labor .
#20
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From: Ashburn, VA
2004 C32, 2006 Honda CBR1000RR, 2007 Harley NightRod, 2013 Harley Road Glide Custom
I am in the middle of the same procedure. The Valeo did come with wrong pully as Vomit stated. Vomit, is it working fine with just swapping the pulley?
And I do agree it is a major PITA. I just kept on reminding myself how much I am saving while using very explicit words . My dealer wanted to 2k to do the same thing. They quoted me 1k for the alternator and 1k for the labor .
And I do agree it is a major PITA. I just kept on reminding myself how much I am saving while using very explicit words . My dealer wanted to 2k to do the same thing. They quoted me 1k for the alternator and 1k for the labor .
#21
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Joined: Jun 2004
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From: Ashburn, VA
2004 C32, 2006 Honda CBR1000RR, 2007 Harley NightRod, 2013 Harley Road Glide Custom
Alleuropean's unit is the Valeo, but with the wrong pulley. Napa Auto swapped the old pulley on to the new alternator for free.
Also, be advised that you will need a Torx 50 to do this project, in addition to sockets, etc. The removal (both the dismounting and the extraction) of the old alternator is a major PITA. Move hoses/plumbing liberally. I did not find it necessary to jack up the car and did not see the need to access alternator from below.
Main tip: When attempting to loosen the old alternator (after bolt removal), do not try to force it towards the rear of the car. Instead, move it towards the left (passenger side) to slide it out of the brackets. Try a piece of wood and a hammer, and hit it towards the left the best you can.
Also, be advised that you will need a Torx 50 to do this project, in addition to sockets, etc. The removal (both the dismounting and the extraction) of the old alternator is a major PITA. Move hoses/plumbing liberally. I did not find it necessary to jack up the car and did not see the need to access alternator from below.
Main tip: When attempting to loosen the old alternator (after bolt removal), do not try to force it towards the rear of the car. Instead, move it towards the left (passenger side) to slide it out of the brackets. Try a piece of wood and a hammer, and hit it towards the left the best you can.
#22
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From: San Diego
2002 C32 Black/Charcoal
I am in the middle of the same procedure. The Valeo did come with wrong pully as Vomit stated. Vomit, is it working fine with just swapping the pulley?
And I do agree it is a major PITA. I just kept on reminding myself how much I am saving while using very explicit words . My dealer wanted to 2k to do the same thing. They quoted me 1k for the alternator and 1k for the labor .
And I do agree it is a major PITA. I just kept on reminding myself how much I am saving while using very explicit words . My dealer wanted to 2k to do the same thing. They quoted me 1k for the alternator and 1k for the labor .
No kidding, it really is a nasty task the first time. I'm sure that I could do it the second time in a couple of hours, however.
It seems to be working just fine. Today was the first day where I really got on it (0-100, pedal to the metal) and no probs.
#24
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2002 C32 Black/Charcoal
Also, FYI, for some reason when I tried installing the top bolt of the alternator first, the bottom bolt then became a beotch and cross-threaded. I then removed both and installed the bottom first (after cleaning the cross thread and applying some WD-40) and it was easy. May have been my screw-up, but I would probably do the bottom bolt first, JIC.
#25
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From: MILFORD,CT
E36M3 race car/Ferrari F355 GTS/1973 Mini 1275GT/Fiat Abarth/ML63/SLK55
mine quit last august mileage 75000 if i remember correctly.
PICKED UP REPLACEMENT AT AUTOZONE FOR $200 MAYE LESS I CANT REMEMBER.
PICKED UP REPLACEMENT AT AUTOZONE FOR $200 MAYE LESS I CANT REMEMBER.