How to Replace the Alternator in a Honda Accord

The alternator in a Honda Accord sends electrical current to various accessories in the vehicle while the engine is running. Most modern alternators have a built-in voltage regulator to ensure the voltage level remains constant. If your battery keeps running down or your headlights become dimmer while driving, you may need to replace the alternator.

Instructions

1

Determine which alternator your Honda Accord needs. Be sure the new alternator is compatible with your Accord's engine. Models made from 1976 to 1985 have a 1.6 L or 1.8 L engine, and 1986 to 1989 models have a 2.0 L engine. Models built from 1990 to 1993 are equipped with a 2.2 L engine. Models made from 1994 to 1997 have a 2.2 L or a 2.7 L engine.

2

Look at more recent generations of the Honda Accord. Models manufactured from 1998 to 2002 have 2.3 L or 3.0 L engines, and models made from 2003 to 2007 have a 2.4 L or 3.0 L engine. The eighth generation of the Honda Accord debuted in 2008 and is available with 2.0 L, 2.2 L, 2.4 L and 2.2 L turbo diesel engines.

3

Disconnect the negative and then positive battery cables with a socket wrench.

4

Remove the four-prong connector from the rear of the alternator. Remove the terminal nut from the rear of the alternator with a socket wrench, and disconnect the wire.

5

Loosen the bottom through-bolt and then the adjusting bolt with a socket wrench so that you can disconnect the alternator belt. You can now completely remove the adjusting bolt and lock nut along with the through-bolt. This allows you to remove the alternator.

6

Install the new alternator assembly. Replace the alternator belt and adjust it to the proper tension before you tighten the adjusting lock nut to 16 foot-lb. with a torque wrench. Torque the through-bolt to 33 foot-lb. with a torque wrench.

7

Use a socket wrench to secure the terminal wire to the alternator with the terminal nut. Connect the four-prong connector and both battery cables.