How long do alternators live for? Mines just died and all the local shops have quoted me from 160-135 with the core exchange. But i know someone who has one from a junkyard crx for 35 bucks with 75k on it. Is this a good deal?

 

$160 for an alternator is obscene... I think I paid $60 for a rebuilt one (that's CDN, so in US it's roughly $40).

An alternator is an electrical part, and like all electrical parts they don't have any specific lifespan. That's also the same reason lightbulbs will die whenever .

What I'd do is go to a junkyard and take a look at the alternators. Pop one out and remove the backing plate on it. There should be a set of brushes inside and the like. Just have a look at it and if it's all crusty, don't buy it. If the brushes look to be in good shape, then it should be a good deal.

Good luck .

 

A honda alt from a junkyard will last longer than most aftermarket re-mans. My crx had the original mitsubishi alternator on it for 165,000 miles. I replaced it only because the bearing was making some noise. Stay away from autozone- absolute garbage!! The mitsubishi alternators tend to last longer while the nippon denso alternators seem to be good for approx 120,000 miles in my experience. Alternator life also depends on battery condition too.