Rep Power: 0

Got a 02 Civic Si w/116K + miles. Normal accessories. Things are running fine and battery charges OK, but is there a point at which one should replace alternator so as not to end up stranded somewhere?

 
Rep Power: 812

not really. ive seen some die in a year or two, and others last 20 yrs. the one you replace it with might die before the old one would have. every part on the car is like this, you cant going around replacing random parts because of the chance they might fail. when they do fail, then you can replace it lol. it will save you money.

 
Rep Power: 308

I have always wanted to get an original alternator and take it to a local automotive electrical shop and have them rebuild it so I can have a spare one ready, may never need it but you never know.

I hate the rebuilt/reman electrical items available, seems like they are all junk.

 
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Gearbox: I think you're right. This is a Honda original generator, so it might last for sometime. Just needed someone to tell me that. Thanks for the quick reply.

 
Rep Power: 0

CraigW: I agree with you on the "junk" aspect. My son had to replace 3 alternators (2 rebuilt) on his car before he sold it, but then, he had a Chevy. He now has a Civic, too! I think with a Civic, the original alternator is a Denso, which I think is pretty good quality and probably will last a long time. Still, your idea of having a spare on hand is a good one.

 
Rep Power: 812

on my old car (vw jetta), i went thru 3 reman alternators in 2 months lol before the car took a dump. with the 02 civic, the stock one only lasted 2 yrs, my napa one has so far lasted 4 yrs and is still going. so its just luck i guess.

 
Rep Power: 308

napa may be good, & maybe the later rebuilds/remans are different these days but years ago it was a real gamble on getting a good one. And I'm **** about oem stuff.

 
Rep Power: 812

well if it were up to me, i wouldve gone oem, but the extended warranty was paying for it so i didnt make a big deal.