Tools and Materials Needed:
- Replacement alternator
- Socket set
- Wrench set
- Screwdriver
- Pliers
- Safety glasses
Procedure:
1. Disconnect the Negative Battery Terminal:
- Open the hood of your Aerio.
- Locate the negative battery terminal (usually marked with a "-" sign).
- Use a wrench to loosen the nut or bolt securing the negative battery cable.
- Remove the cable and set it aside, ensuring it doesn't touch any metal surfaces to avoid short circuits.
2. Remove the Serpentine Belt:
- Locate the serpentine belt in the engine bay. It is the long, continuous belt that runs around multiple pulleys, including the alternator pulley.
- Using the appropriate wrench or socket, loosen the tensioner pulley to relax the belt.
- Remove the belt by slipping it off the pulleys.
3. Disconnect Electrical Connectors:
- Locate the electrical connectors attached to the alternator. There may be one or two connectors.
- Use a screwdriver or your fingers to release the locking tabs and disconnect the connectors by gently pulling them apart.
4. Remove Mounting Bracket Bolts:
- Locate the mounting bracket bolts holding the alternator in place. There are usually two bolts.
- Use a wrench or socket to loosen and remove the mounting bracket bolts.
5. Remove the Alternator:
- Once the mounting bracket bolts are removed, you can carefully remove the alternator from the engine bay. Be mindful of its weight and any remaining wires or cables attached to it.
6. Replace the Alternator:
- Carefully position the new alternator in its place, aligning it with the mounting brackets.
- Reinstall the mounting bracket bolts and tighten them securely.
7. Reconnect Electrical Connectors:
- Reconnect the electrical connectors that you disconnected earlier. Ensure they snap into place securely.
8. Reinstall Serpentine Belt:
- Place the serpentine belt back onto the pulleys, ensuring proper alignment with all pulleys.
- Retighten the tensioner pulley to tension the belt correctly.
9. Reconnect Negative Battery Terminal:
- Lift up the negative battery cable and reconnect it to the negative battery terminal.
- Tighten the securing nut or bolt.
10. Test the Alternator:
- Start your Aerio.
- Check the battery indicator light on the dashboard. It should turn off, indicating that the alternator is charging the battery.
- Turn on electrical accessories like headlights, A/C, etc., to put a load on the alternator. The battery indicator light should remain off.
- If the battery indicator light stays on or flickers, there may be an issue with the new alternator or the charging system.
Additional Notes:
- Consult your vehicle's service manual for any specific instructions or details related to your particular Aerio model.
- If you encounter any seized bolts or tight spaces during the process, it may be helpful to use penetrating oil or extensions for your tools.
- If you are uncomfortable performing these steps or encounter any unexpected challenges, it's advisable to seek assistance from a qualified mechanic.
