Best Alternator Brands for Your Car | Review and Buying Guide

Don’t blame your car battery if it can’t take the full load when you are chilling with your friends. Can't it play music? Or the Air conditioner might be lacking airflow?

Well, in the worst-case scenario, your battery is just unable to kick-start the car. So, is it the fault in battery? No, sometimes it might not be responsible for this. Batteries need to be charged appropriately to handle all accessories of a car.

And the task is given to the alternator to charge it properly. If it can’t provide enough output voltage to the battery, the issues that I mentioned above are likely to happen. Today we will talk about some best alternator brands for car currently available in the market.

What is an Alternator?

Well, required electricity in your car comes straight from the battery. But what happens when the juice of your battery is over? Probably you have got the idea where I'm taking you. Yes, it is the best alternator brand.  You should also know the working principle of alternator. The best alternator follows the electromagnetic principle and turns the mechanical force into electricity. Here the electricity generated by turns out being AC. But your battery will only charge on DC. So, there are some rectifiers which makes the AC into DC to charge the battery in your car. Basically, it converts rotational speed or torque into electrical energy.

One research of Mechanical Engineering Faculty, University Technical Malaysia Melaka, Malaysia demonstrations that the quicker the alternator spin, the more power it can generate. And when there is more power, the faster the charging rate. At medium speeds the efficiency of the parts is more than 70-80%. Thus the best alternator brands are very helpful for your car's smooth charging.

You may think many questions like below:

What is the most powerful alternator? What is the best high output one? How do I choose the best aftermarket alternator?  Can  a car run without alternator?  don't worry, you will get the answers of those questions here.

Best Alternator Brands Reviews

Here are some best alternators review guide for your information.

1. ACDelco 335-1086 Professional Alternator

There are only a few aftermarket car alternators that can be suggested to you. ACDelco 335-1086 is one of them. It comes with the best quality and all new components. It is also compatible with almost all cars roaming around the roads nowadays. This professional series acdelco alternator has been tested for high longevity. It can give you the highest output at any toughest condition. The regulators are 100% computer tested for voltage stability, electronic circuit board integrity and terminal function from the manufacturer. This is designed to meet your expectation the fullest at any situation. It lasts 60% longer than most retail belts. Let’s see the specifications of this high output product.

Specifications:

Brand: ACDelco

Model: 335-1086

Item Weight: 11.65 pounds

Features

• 100% new components used for high performance and longevity.

• All key components are lubricated to provide maximum output and long-term reliability at any harsh condition.

• All new units are made under the ISO quality standard to ensure the best quality performance.

• Belt Type: Serpentine.

• Comes with tested voltage stability, electronic circuit board integrity and terminal function from the manufacturer.

• Amperage rating: 105A

Final Thoughts:

2. DB Electrical New Alternator

A well-known brand and a famous product. This is a fully equipped masterclass aftermarket alternator from DB Electrical. Every small detail matters. It can create a massive difference in performance. This best alternator brand is made for performing at a very high temperature. That's why there is no compromise in the materials. Also, designers have worked hard to give an outstanding look which will blow your mind. This high quality item is designed for working under heavy load without any compromising in the performance. It has been manufactured under the guidelines of ISO Standard. Most importantly, new db electrical alternator can fit almost all car models available. They are also offering the fastest delivery option across the whole country.

Specifications:

Brand: DB Electrical

Model: New

Item Weight: 12 pounds

Features:

•  Newly-build aftermarket alternator with 100% new components to meet OEM specifications.

• Voltage rating: 12V, Amperage Rating: 110A.

• Clockwise Rotation.

• Equipped with 6 groove 54mm OD pulley.

• High temp epoxy and grease deliver superior heat resistance.

•  Loaded with heavy-duty rectifiers and top-notch bearings for ensuring longevity.

Final Thoughts:

The New DB Electrical might be the ultimate value king in terms of price to performance ratio. It offers more when other products at the same price points can’t. In, my opinions it is worth to give this aftermarket parts a try.

3. Bosch AL8782N New Alternator

Bosch AL8782N is another high-end aftermarket alternator. This piece of product is a performance beast. Equipped with brand new top-class components, this bosch alternator can easily handle all tasks of your car. This power supply comes with performance tested out of the box. Bosch is a well-known manufacturer; we all know that. Their products are always best in quality and a good value for money. If you are demanding high power output, then you are looking at the right product here. So, why wait? Let’s dig into the specs of this excellent aftermarket alternator.

Specifications:

Brand: Bosch

Model: AL8782N

Item Weight: 9 pounds

Features:

• All new components inside the alternator. All premium components used for better longevity.

• Proven and guaranteed charging performance.

• Better heat resistance ability. Can work under heavy load and toughest situation.

•  Meets the output voltage and amperage written in the product description.

• Comes with 6 groove serpentine pulley.

• Comes with increased brush life.

•  Reduced electrical interference on computer-controlled vehicles.

• Eliminates all open and short circuits.

Final Thoughts:

Another best car alternator from DB Electrical. Their automotive alternators are proven for providing performance. This high amp one is capable of delivering 145 Amp. We've already talked a lot about how good DB Electrical aftermarket alternators are. It has some more advantages and features than the other version of it. ADR0368 has the capability of challenging. Not only that, but it also fits exactly the same as the stock one. So, when you have the better option here for yourself, why would you search for another? Take my advice, if this rebuilt item fits in your car, take it. Read the db electrical alternator review.

Specifications:

Brand: DB Electrical

Model: 400-12247

Item Weight: 15 pounds

Features

• 100% new and original component build. Meets OEM specification.

• Fits perfectly so that it can perfectly replace the stock alternator belt.

• Amperage rating: 145A, Voltage rating: 12V.

•  Clockwise Rotation.

• Equipped with 6 groove 54mm OD pulley.

• High temp epoxy and grease deliver superior heat resistance.

•  Loaded with heavy-duty rectifiers and top-notch bearings for ensuring longevity.

• True-fit design for compatible vehicles.

5. Premier Gear PG-13671 Professional Grade New Alternator

Our first pick from Premier Gear. This durable alternator is designed exclusively to meet OEM specification. 100% of new tools are used. They believe in quality. That is why refurbished components were never an option for them. Refurbished products do not offer good value in the long run. On the other hand, you will get this excellent parts at the same price point where you can just buy a refurbished alternator. So, what will you do? Probably you think all cheap products are bad. But let me tell you that this factory alternators might come at a lower price but delivers the best output. The manufacturer guarantees meeting the OEM specifications or even surpass it. It is tested under heavy load out of the box form the manufacturer. So, let's look at the specs, features of this alternator 

Specifications:

Brand: Premier Gear

Model: PG-13671

Item Weight: 10.94 pounds

Features

• Brand new product comes from directly manufacturer Wearhouse.

• Protects from overcharging.

• Eliminates open and short circuits and gives protection from sparking or failure in the system.

• Meets or exceeds Manufacturer OEM specification.

•  Components are made from premium material to perform under heavy load and heat.

•  Premium brushes ensure better longevity.

• Equipped with an internal fan.

• 4 groove pulley, Denso, CW rotation, 70Amp, 12V.

• Power thermal cycle tested from -40^o C to 200^o C; minimum of 5000 cycles.

Final Thoughts:

Another best car alternator brands on our list! This one is from Denso. We all know Denso. They provide premium quality product from the beginning. This product from them is called Reman alternator. People who have used this so far are a fan of it. It can easily replace your stock alternator, and you will never fill the difference. It juices up your battery very quickly and protects your car from any type of short or open circuit failure. It can easily handle all of the components of vehicle's electrical system. Comes with a stable output voltage. And this product comes checked and tested out of the box.

Specifications:

Brand: Denso

Model: Reman Alternator 2100580

Item Weight: 13.24 pounds

Features

• Bearing tested to OE standards and repacked with OEM standards parts.

• Stator and rotor performance tested to 600 volts.

• Rectifier performance tested to 300 volts.

• Meets the grueling heat and electrical requirements.

• OE quality appearance and fit. Durability ensured.

• Compatible with sensitive electrical components.

• Rotor slip ring surface Finish buffed to 8micron.

• 29 performance and safety tested out of the box from the manufacturer.

Final Thoughts:

7. Remy 94113 New Alternator

Remy is an international aftermarket locomotive parts manufacturer. Let's see the remy alternator review. Currently, they are leading the industry, just like the Remy 94113 is leading the oem alternator market and are providing one of the best parts. A super lightweight product with a beast installed inside it. They provide the best value choice products all over the world, so don't worry; where you live in will not matter. If you are looking for the OE level performance, Remy is here for you. If you have GM vehicle, go for Remy 100% New alternators for better performance. t is fully equipped with ultra-durable components which are capable of performing at any tough situation without any compromising the performance. Also, this high output brands are factory checked and tested several times before reaching your doorstep. You can say this is affordable, reliable and matches all standards to give an extraordinary performance.

Specifications:

Brand: Remy

Model: 94113

Item Weight: 5 pounds

Features

• New component build. No chance of using refurbished products.

• Provides maximum fuel economy.

• Very low noise performance.

• Amperage: 160Amp, Voltage: 12V

• CW rotation, 6 groove clutch-pulley, external voltage regulator.

• Equipped with an internal fan.

• Durable and premium materials used for better longevity.

• Belt and pulley perfectly align.

Final Thoughts:

How to Check the Best Alternators for Vehicle

It is hard to tell if your alternator is in tip-top shape. Like other parts of your car, it can lack standard performance. So, it is wise to check it regularly and it is also important part in the checklist of regular car maintenance . Also, this specific part needs more care than some other parts of your car. There is a fan installed in almost all alternators which need to be cleaned very frequently. Let’s see some methods of checking to find out either it is undercharging or overcharging?

Using Voltmeter

The easiest way to find out that your particular alternator is working fine or not is by testing the output voltage with a voltmeter.

Step 1:

Buy a voltmeter from a hardware shop. Don’t worry you have a multimeter or the shopkeeper says he just have the multimeter. A multimeter can measure the voltage as well. The difference is, it can also measure other electrical quantities like current, resistance etc.

Step 2:

Now, when you are done buying starts with the battery test. For this, turn off the car and open the hood. After that, set your multimeter in the voltage mode (if you have a voltmeter no need to do anything). Touch and hold the red lead to the positive terminal and the black to the negative lead terminal. If you have done this perfectly, your voltmeter will show its reading. Wait for the reading become stable. Note the output voltage. Check the manufacturer's rated voltage. If it gives less voltage than the written voltage, then your battery doesn't have enough juice. Generally, the voltage should remain 12V or above it.

Step 3:

If your battery okay, then you can start testing the alternator. Start your car and then rev the engine to 2000 rpm. This will start using the electrical power from your battery. When your battery is getting used at its maximum capacity, the voltage regulator should kick start to charge the battery.

Step 4:

Now, check the battery voltage again on this state. If the voltage reading is between 13V to 14.5V, then your alternator is doing good. Perform the test again and again with the other accessories like radio, AC turned on. The voltage should not fall down 13V at 2000rpm while all accessories including AC are turned on. If it falls down, then your alternator's condition is not good and it needs to repair or replace.

Monitoring Your Alternator

One alternative way of checking your alternator is the monitoring method. Let’s see how you can perform the monitoring test.

Step 1:

If you have a volt/amp gauge, it can monitor the alternator for you by reading the output of it. To do this, run your engine at 2000rpm. Then turn on the all other accessories in your car like AC/Heater, headlights, radio etc. This puts a massive strain on the ignition system. See for any voltage change in the gauge output. Normally, If the voltmeter reading is higher when the engine is turned on, then your alternator is definitely charging your battery.

Step 2:

Sometimes, your ear can tell more than other testing equipment. You just need to hear closely. This fact is also true for the alternator. One of the best ways to check your alternator is turning on the engine and hear close to it. If there is a problem with bearing you will hear a squealing sound from the front of your car and the sound may become louder. Contact with a mechanic if that happens.

Step 3:

An alternative monitoring method is turning on the radio and rev your engine. You need to set your radio in AM band without any music. If the radio whines or goes fuzzy when you try to hit the gas it is pretty much sure that there’s something wrong with your alternator.

Also, some companies offer free test services for your car. This is for taking the lead in the competition. You can get their services at discount prices or even free sometimes.

How to Change Your Car Alternator

Your newly brought battery can’t hold up with the accessories you use in the car? It’s not the fault of your battery. The stock alternators which come with your vehicle is maybe dead or having troubles. It is high time you changed your car alternator to get the smooth riding experience. So, how will you do it?

Disconnecting the Alternator

1. Park the car on an even surface. Taking safety measures are paramount before any maintenance in your car.

2. At first, you need to disconnect the battery because it is attached with the alternator. Disconnect the positive and negative terminals. Otherwise, you can get shocked, or in the worst case, you might damage your car.

3. Then you need to detach the main charging cable that goes into the alternator from the battery. You might need a wrench to remove the necessary bolts to detach the connection. It depends on your car model and the manufacturer. Remove that cable. The cable will be easy to identify because this will be a thick wire.

4. Another control harness wire will be connected with the alternator. You need to remove it also. Use your hand or a flat screwdriver. Just release the clip holding it together and slide it apart.

Remove the Old Alternator from Your Car

1. First of all, you need to check your car if it is equipped with an auto tensioner. You can check it by just looking at it. If you can slide the bolts from side to side in the bracket, then it does not have an auto-tensioner. Suppose it is then applying pressure on the auto-tensioner pulley in a clockwise direction to relieve tension on the belt. It is wise to keep a friend for helping you.

2. If there is no auto-tensioner, you need to remove all bolts from the alternator. If the serpentine is not damaged, you might not need to remove it. Only loosen the bolts.

3. Inspect the serpentine belt carefully. If it is not damaged, leave it as it is. If you don't feel that it is damaged or will not last long, you better remove it as well and equip a new one.

4. Finally, remove the old alternator from the engine bay. Now compare the old one with the new one. Look for the damaged sections and analyze it.

Installing the New best alternator brand

1. Put the new alternator in the place where the faulty one was. Check for the compatibility. If it is fine, grab the bolts.

2. Insert the mounting bolts. If you have an auto-tensioner in your car, then you can completely tighten the bolts at this stage. If you don't have one, then keep is loose for now.

3. Now place the belt on the new alternator pulley. If your car doesn’t have an auto-tensioner pulley, then you need to use a large screwdriver or pry bar to tighten the belt. Be careful with this task and avoid damaging any other parts while applying pressure.

4. Now, tighten the belt properly and then tighten the bolts you left loose. If you see that the belts are loose, then you have to lose the bolts again and tight the belt.

5. Finally, you need to do the reassembling task. Plug the power cable and the monitor harness that you unplugged during the detaching part. After that, follow the instructions backwards that you made and give the connection in the battery.

When you have finally installed the unique design alternator successfully, now this is the time for checking it. Use a voltmeter or a multimeter to measure the output voltage from your battery. If it meets the standard, then you are good to go.

FAQ (Best Alternator Brand)

1. What is a good alternator?

You can identify an alternator, bad or good after doing the bench test. A good quality alternator should generate voltage from 13.5 to 14.5 volts. While doing the test, if you find voltage less than 12 volts. You can say that its charging capacity is not up to the mark.

2. Is a higher amp alternator better?

An average alternator can generate 65 to 100 amperes to support your car’s electrical systems like Air Conditioning, lights, pumps, battery charging etc. Usually, an alternator supplies a specific amount of power to certain parts or components. So, it is not a vital issue to use a higher amp item for your car without any particular case. If you use a high amp parts in your vehicle, it will not damage your parts. Most products carry 10 to 15 percent reserve energy for running additional accessories.

3. What does a new alternator cost?

The price of an alternator varies from 100 to 500 USD. It depends upon the type, quality and brand of it. For remanufactured alternators, the price is around 25% less than the brand-new one.

4. How can I tell that my alternator is going bad?

If you face difficulty starting the car, it may be due to a weak battery or a bad alternator. Besides, while driving, the dimming headlights and overheated alternator also indicate the faulty alternator. The noisy whining sound under the hood is a symbol of a damaged one.

Conclusion

Best aftermarket alternator might be hard to choose because the market is full of products. But only a few products can be trusted. Don't fall for the one that your friend use or some random guy told it best on YouTube. Trust your own instincts. Do proper research before buying products and purchase the best alternators. Beware from the frauds and have a nice ride—best of luck for your next best alternator brands for car.