Advice on choosing an alternator

The alternator plays a central role in the smooth running of a vehicle. From compatibility and amperage to build quality, there are many criteria to consider when making the right choice. This guide will help you understand its purpose and select the right model for your vehicle.

How to choose the right alternator for your vehicle?

Are you looking for a high-performance alternator to match your vehicle? To make the right choice, there are a few things you need to consider before making your purchase.

1. Vehicle compatibility

Each alternator is designed for a specific type of engine and configuration. It's not enough to rely on the make or model of the vehicle. You must :

identify the alternator's original part number (label or engraving on the part),

check the cross-references (OEM, equipment manufacturers) available,

make sure the alternator is compatible with the exact engine (e.g. Renault Megane 2.0 dCi, Opel Movano 2.3 CDTI...)

2. Alternator amperage

The amperage determines the alternator's power. An undersized model won't supply enough energy for the on-board equipment. Conversely, an oversized model can lead to overheating or premature wear. You need to choose :

a suitable voltage (generally 12 V for light vehicles),

a current equivalent to the original one (generally between 90 and 150 A depending on the vehicle).

3. Manufacturing quality of an alternator for your vehicle

Two main categories can be distinguished:

original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts such as Valeo, Bosch or Denso, renowned for their reliability,

equivalent or remanufactured parts (SEG Automotive, A.E.S., Elstock...), less expensive but of variable quality depending on the brand.

Note also that some alternators incorporate voltage regulators or are suitable for Start & Stop systems. So check the specifications before making your choice.

To make sure you select an alternator compatible with your vehicle, Wagendass offers a part number search system. Order your alternator with peace of mind, with a partner you can trust.

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What is an alternator used for, and when should it be changed?

The alternator is an essential part of a vehicle's electrical system. It transforms the engine's mechanical energy into electricity to recharge the battery and power electrical equipment (headlights, air conditioning, radio, etc.). A faulty alternator can lead to total vehicle breakdown.

There are certain signs of impending wear or failure:

battery discharges frequently

warning lights on the dashboard remain on after starting

unusual noises coming from the engine compartment

electrical equipment operates intermittently

In the presence of these symptoms, we recommend checking or replacing the alternator.

For more advice on how an alternator works and the signs of wear, see our dedicated article.

See also: Vehicle alternators: operation, installation and maintenance

Why buy an alternator on wagendass?

With Wagendass, you have access to a comprehensive alternator catalog, designed to meet a maximum number of needs. Each reference has been selected to cover a maximum number of makes and models, from the most common to the most specific.

Our aim is to help you find the right alternator for your vehicle, quickly and easily.

All you have to do is search by part number directly on our site. You'll find your alternator part number on the part in question. Thanks to this search method, you can quickly and easily obtain a targeted selection of compatible parts for véhicules

Simply search by part number directly on our website. You'll find your alternator part number on the relevant part. Using this search method, you can quickly and easily obtain a targeted selection of compatible parts for your vehicle.

Thanks to our direct selection of suppliers, Wagendass offers you competitive prices without compromising on quality. It's an economical solution for replacing an alternator, even on the latest models. In the event of an order error, you can return the product, and technical assistance is available to help you with any problems you may encounter.