I'm pretty sure the alternator has seized on my '97 Civic EX. Poor thing has been sitting idle for a couple of months due to a bad CV joint/axle. I tried to start it the other day, and although it turns over (and even starts momentarily), it makes this godawful squeeling sound accompanied by smoke, which is definitely belt related. The alternator seems to be the culprit, and the fact that the car will not stay running kind of confirms it.

More to the point, I've been looking at alternator replacements online and I've found prices ranging from $75 to $200+. I need a replacement that will last a couple of years, but it doesn't need to be high tech or even OEM if it will work well. Is there any reason I should steer clear of cheaper replacements? Any of you guys have recommendations? I'd like to go as cheap as I can get away with due to financial constraints, but I also don't want the car breaking down again in 3 months.

 

I got a used alternator about a year ago from a shop near me for 50 bucks installed.. has a 2 year warranty too. maybe go with a shop similar to this, we all know the financial issue everyones having shops like this are no different. Goodluck on your search and getting you Civy back on the road.

 

Could of course be the power steering or A/C pulley bearings too. Loosen belts and investigate.

The alternator is made with really tight clearance inside, and a little rust on the stator and/or rotor will jam it up. You may be able to disassemble, clean out the rust and get it going again.

 

Ah. Well, my car has about 230K miles on it, so while it could certainly be rust or something jamming it, my guess is that if I do clean it out, it's just going to die again due to age. If can get a cheap replacement, I can swap it out myself. I found a great how to online for it. Just need the part now.

I've seen one for $50 now on ebay. It's a reman, but I can't imagine that would mean it wouldn't be good, so long as it's been tested, right?