X5 alternator - advice please?

[BruceB]

I have an X5 and the battery light is coming on. BMW quoted R12,5k including labour to replace the alternator which seems expensive to me.

Should I rather go to an auto electrician, and if so can someone recommend a good one in the Randburg area?

Thanks
Bruce

 

[Clownshoe]

Which X5 is it?

Alternators do not always need to be replaced. Sometimes they can be repaired. If you let us know what model I can be more specific.

 

[BruceB]

3.0i 2000 model

Thanks

 

[Speedy]

Apparently there were two kinds of alternators used in the X5, a Bosch unit which can be opened up and parts replaced and a Valeo unit which is sealed and would require complete replacement.

 

[nasser*]

The alternator is available from MED (http://www.medsa.co.za)for about 3.5k any decent auto-electrian can fit it for you for about an hours labour hope this helps!

 

[Clownshoe]

Take it to an auto-electrician. Ask them to diagnose and possibly repair before replacing.

 

[nasser*]

Take it to an auto-electrician. Ask them to diagnose and possibly repair before replacing.

yip! that would be best!

 

[BruceB]

Thanks for all the feedback. Auto electrician it is. I will let you know how it turns out.

Thanks

 

[BruceB]

Feedback - I took my car to Bosch Fourways and they replaced the alternator for R5 500. They first checked if they could just fix the regulator but no luck with that. I was very happy with the service.

Thanks

Bruce

 

[Kish2604]

Ouch... I have a spare one that I wanted less than R1000 for... Comes of the m54..

 

[BruceB]

Ouch... I have a spare one that I wanted less than R1000 for... Comes of the m54..

Too late! Thanks

 

[Clownshoe]

:bangdesk:
Dealers... how can they justify 12.5K vs. 5.5K. And I guarantee you: Bosch are not a charity. It just grates my carrot.

 

[AcidBurn]

Most likely the voltage regulator. Ask me i know as I had to replace mine recently. Lucky for me I had a Bosch alternator and could purchase the part from Diesel Electric and fit it myself.

It a fairly simple job any electrician should be able to sort you out. No need to go to the agents for this one.

Good luck hope your one is salvageable :thumbs:

 

[sunnyj]

Good luck with it, keep us posted :thumbs: