How to Replace the Alternator in a Chevy Cobalt

The Chevy Cobalt uses an alternator to run electrical devices in your vehicle while the engine is running. A voltage regulator maintains a constant voltage level and is usually part of the alternator assembly. You may need to replace the alternator if your battery continually runs down or your headlights dim while the engine runs.

Instructions

1

Determine that the new alternator is compatible with the Cobalt engine. You will have one of the following engines: 2.0 L S/C LSJI4, 2.0 L Turbo LNFI4, 2.2 L L61I4, 2.2 L LAPI4 or 2.4 L LE5I4.

2

Disconnect the negative battery cable with a socket wrench. Remove the accessory drive belt and supercharger if present. Remove the tube bolt for the oil level indicator and loosen the alternator terminal nut with a socket wrench. Disconnect the electrical connections to the alternator.

3

Remove the mounting bolts on the alternator with a socket wrench and take the alternator off the vehicle.

4

Install the new alternator assembly and tighten the mounting bolts with a torque wrench to 18 ft. lbs. for a 2.0 L engine and 16 ft. lbs for a 2.2 L engine. Connect the electrical wiring to the alternator and tighten the alternator terminal nut to 15 ft. lbs. Install the oil level indicator tube if it was removed and torque its retaining bolt to 89 in. lbs.

5

Replace the supercharger and the accessory drive belt. Reconnect the negative battery cable with a socket wrench.