Sounds like a really bad deal... you can get a brand new OEM brand (Valeo) alternator for about $600 and should be only about an hour of labor to install. You can also rebuild it yourself or get it rebuilt for cheaper than that.

 

That was my read as I look more into it. I’ve not found an alternator for less than $799 yet (still searching). I hadn’t considered rebuilding, but I may.

Thanks for the labor context - I had no idea how much it would be.

edit: RockAuto (no experience) has the Valeo part new (not manufactured) for $635.

Edit-2: found a new Valeo for $482. Ordered.

Would still love additional opinions on this from a labor perspective.

Also, the battery has never been replaced so I’m considering having it replaced if they have to disconnect the battery anyway.

 

Also, the battery has never been replaced so I’m considering having it replaced if they have to disconnect the battery anyway.

You're a brave soul.
My first suggestion would be to confirm that it is indeed your alternator that went poopie... don't blindly trust the dealer.
I'd suggest you also replace the battery, belt, tensioner and all idlers if you want piece of mind and reliability.

 

$300 to change a serp belt 😂🤣😂🤣😂 $30 at your FLAPS and half hour of your time.

I know they’re called stealers, but wow. Hope they include a tube of lube at that price.

 

I had a similar feeling. $100 for the part, and I can only assume $200 for labor. But if I’m not mistaken, they pretty much have to remove the belt to replace the alternator, yes?

If so, comes across as double dipping (normal for a stealership).

 

I stock those alternators, oem remanufactured for $395 plus core and shipping.
Valeo is the original manufacturer.
They are a bit of a pain to replace, but completely doable and by far not the worst ones to change alternators on.