The alternator in your Toyota or Scion vehicle is one of the three primary parts of its charging system. (The other two are the car battery and a voltage regulator.)

What it does is charge the battery and power the vehicle's many electrical systems by turning mechanical energy (the movement of parts) into electrical energy (electricity). Once it does so, the instrumentation can light up and everything from the power windows and windshield wipers to the steering system and electronics can run.

How one works is almost as straightforward, too. The process starts with the engine, which moves the serpentine belt and drive belts. These turn a pulley attached to the alternator, and the pulley moves a rotor shaft. The shaft spins a set of magnetic coils as it turns, generating AC power. A rectifier on the alternator then captures it, turning it into DC power that the voltage regulator manages.

What causes an alternator to fail, however, is usually either an overtightened belt or installing the wrong accessories, if not jump-starting your vehicle improperly. Of course, degraded parts can also be to blame. Failure may happen without warning, too, but luckily, there are some symptoms that you might notice. They include car lighting behaving erratically, electronics like the radio malfunctioning, battery and alternator warning lights on the dashboard, and the smell of something burning under the hood. Others range from a squeaking engine and a dead battery to alternator fluid leaking.

In such cases, an alternator inspection is strongly recommended. You should follow it up with a test of your vehicle's charging system as well. Be sure to replace any parts that either set of results recommends. Otherwise, change the alternator every 80,000 miles or every 7 years -- whichever comes first. Don't put off replacement any longer than 150,000 miles, though. As for how to install one, generally, you just need to disconnect the battery, detach a few wires, move a tensioner pulley, take off some bolts, and remove the old alternator. Consult your owner's documentation or the manufacturer's instructions for more specifics. Before ordering a new one to put in, though, be sure it's the genuine article.

Why Buy a Genuine OEM Alternator vs. Aftermarket?

Toyota and Scion design them specifically for their models. That compatibility guarantee, not all off-brands can always offer.

Where to Order Genuine Toyota & Scion Alternators Online

Our auto parts store has plenty in stock. Click your make, model, and model year in our catalog to start browsing. Buy now, and you can take advantage of fast shipping in as few as 24 hours to 2-3 business days, to any US address. Shipping options include ground and overnight, and local pickup may be available at our 6324 Bob Bullock Loop location in Laredo TX. Returning or canceling an order is no problem, either -- just contact us, and we'll start the process for you. For further details on store policies, consult the relevant pages here on our website.

You're welcome to get in touch anytime, too, should you have questions about alternators, some concerns, or you need advice on how to buy one; we'll connect you to a parts expert that'll be happy to help.