How to Replace a Volkswagen Jetta Alternator

You may need to replace the alternator of the Volkswagen Jetta because of faulty parts or because it has worn out. The Volkswagen Jetta alternator is located on the front passenger side of the motor near the top. Replacing the alternator is a job that can be done in less than an hour. You can replace the Volkswagen Jetta alternator yourself, saving you the time and money of calling a mechanic to do the job for you.

Things You'll Need:

• Open-end wrench
• Socket wrench set

1. Locate the alternator

Locate the alternator of the Volkswagen Jetta near the front of the engine. Unfasten the negative battery cable from the battery post with an open-end wrench.

2. Unplug the electrical wire connector plugs

Unplug the electrical wire connector plugs on the alternator by hand. Remove the nut that is securing the electrical wiring harness that is attached to the alternator with a socket wrench.

3. Locate the adjustment slider below the alternator

Locate the adjustment slider below the alternator and loosen the bolt with a socket wrench just enough to move the slider. Move the slider forward and take the drive belt off the alternator, leaving it in place on the rest of the pulleys.

4. Loosen the bolts on the top and bottom of the alternator

Loosen the bolts on the top and bottom of the alternator with a socket wrench and take them out of the alternator. Remove the alternator from the bracket and out of the engine compartment.

5. Place the new alternator in the bracket

Place the new alternator in the bracket and secure it by attaching and tightening the bolts. Place the belt around the alternator pulley and move the slider back to add tension to the belt.

6. Tighten the bolt on the slider

Tighten the bolt on the slider while you are applying tension to the belt. Attach the electrical wire connector plugs to the alternator by hand.

7. Connect the electrical wiring harness

Connect the electrical wiring harness to the alternator with the nut. Attach the negative battery cable to the negative battery post with an open-end wrench.

Warning

Allow the Volkswagen Jetta engine to cool down before replacing the alternator to avoid burn injuries.

Video showing how to replace an alternator on a Volkswagen Jetta:

Comments on the video:

• Thanks for this video. I was having issues on my jetta died on the highway and had to walk to the store to buy a new alternator. Easy fix!
• Thank you for the great info. I was able to replace my alternator in august thanks to you. However, I purchased the same part you linked in the description.