jcjr

Thanks Salim, Code 58 and everyone....

My battery is an AZ battery(Duralast) that is why I took it there first for the test...

Again I have seen no warning lights on dash......For now I am going to sit tight and see what happens .....

As Code 58 recommended I may try another "load" test may be at Sears

I will let you guys know how it goes...

Thanks again!!!!

salimshah

My bad ,,,, Duralast andnot die-hard.

You like to invest in a battery charger .. specially if you expect long spells of no use or short trips.

Salim

rx300s415

Hi Salim,

So from reading your post if my alternator belt is loose, it would light up a completely different icon in my dashboard other than the "battery-looking light" that is on right now?

I was driving tonight and I noticed it flicked on. I guess my day off tomorrow will be fun-filled...

Assuming I need a new alternator, what is the best solution for this? I've heard things anywhere from junkyard to brand new to rebuilding.

bob2200

I think that alternators, like many other parts (e.g., starters, transmissions, engines) are not available brand new any more. The options are auto recycler (junkyard) or various qualities of rebuilt (with dealer supplied probably the highest quality tier). One tip-off is that rebuilds almost always have a core charge.

salimshah

"battery-looking ligt/icon" is the discharge lamp ... battery not getting the charge from the alternator. During night driving the electrical load is higher as well as easier to spot the icon (even if it is faintly lit).

If your alternator belt is loose, you would hear/observe a slippage when the A/C is engaged.

Although by checking voltage, shops can tell if the alternator is not putting out enough voltage, but a better test is once you take the alternator out and put it on their test jig [your vehicle electronic malfunction can give a false reading of voltage].
Once you get to that stage and it is confirmed that the alternator is bad, then you have couple of options:

a) Repair it [need to get hold of service kits, tools, and have the know how to debug and repair]. Some shops can do this service for you .. check cost.

b) Swap it with rebuilt [member mentioned you have to give the core to them]. Most if not all auto parts shop will do the exchange over the counter.

c) Get an OEM replacement. If not stocked, the dealer may have to order one for you.

B & C typically are the shortest down time options. C being most costly and you should weigh other factors. .. cost difference and your short/long term ownership plans.

Salim

JohnLX300

iTrader: (2)

I just had a bearing go in my alternator about a week ago. I had no symptoms except for a noise from under the hood. I had it checked out by my local Toyota dealer, who took a look at it for FREE!!!. Told me that a bearing in the alternator was bad. And preceded to direct me to go get a rebuilt one from an auto parts place or one from a junk yard. I just ordered a new one from Lexus, it was $242, I intend to keep this car for a long time.

bob2200

I guess I thought wrong But, doing a web surf, it looks to me like $260 or so is the going price for a remanufactured DENSO RX300 alternator ( drivewire.com/vehicle/lexus-rx300/alternator/ ). Junkyard prices are about $125. Sewell has Lexus alternators OEM in the $600-700 range, I didn't price out a specific model. I suspect you are getting a remanufactured model at that price. Nothing wrong with a remanufactured alternator though.

JohnLX300

iTrader: (2)

go to www.parts.com, this is where I get all my NEW lexus parts.