Genuine Mercedes-Benz Alternators

Your Mercedes-Benz vehicle's alternator is one of the three primary parts of its charging system (the other two being the car battery and a voltage regulator). What it does is charge the battery in your car or SUV, plus power its many electrical systems. It achieves this by turning mechanical energy (in other words, the movement of parts) into electrical energy (i.e., electricity). Upon it doing so, the vehicle's instrumentation lights up and everything from the power windows and windshield wipers to the steering system and electronics runs.

How alternators work is actually pretty simple, too. First, the engine moves the serpentine belt and drive belts, which turn a pulley attached to the alternator. The pulley then moves a rotor shaft, and the shaft spins a set of magnetic coils. The process generates AC power, and a rectifier on the alternator captures it, turning it into DC power that the voltage regulator can manage

What causes alternator failure, however, is usually either an overtightened belt, installing the wrong accessories, jump-starting your vehicle improperly, or just plain degraded parts. That failure may happen with warning, too. However, there are some symptoms that might present. They include:

• The car lighting behaving erratically
• Other electronics like the radio malfunctioning
• Warning lights for the battery and alternator lighting up on the dashboard
• A squeaking engine
• A dead battery
• Alternator fluid leaking
• The smell of something burning under the hood

In such cases, an inspection is strongly recommended. You should follow it up immediately with a test of your vehicle's charging system, too. Be sure to replace any parts that any of the results recommend.

When should you change an alternator otherwise, though? Every 80,000 miles or every 7 years or so -- whichever comes first. Don't put off the job any longer than 150,000 miles, though. As for how to install a new one, generally, all you need to do is disconnect the battery and detach some wires, move a tensioner pulley, take off a few bolts, and remove the old alternator. Review your owner's documentation or the manufacturer's instructions for more specific info. Before ordering one to put in, though, be sure it's genuine.

Why Buy a Genuine OEM Alternator vs. Aftermarket?

Mercedes-Benz designs each to spec for its car and SUV models. That compatibility guarantee, not all off-brands can offer.

Where to Order Genuine Mercedes-Benz Alternators Online

You'll find plenty in our auto parts store's catalog. Select your model and model year to start browsing. Buy now, and we'll ship fast, to any address in the US; most orders go out in as few as 24 hours to 2-3 business days, and shipping options range from ground to overnight. Plus, local pickup may even be available at our 1 Loop Rd. location in Dayton OH, should you prefer to stop by. Returns and cancellations are easy, too -- as easy as getting in touch with us. For complete details on all this, refer to our store policies pages.

You're invited to contact us anytime you need to as well, should you need a little buying advice or have questions or concerns; we'll connect you to one of the knowledgeable experts on our parts team.