How to Replace the Alternator in a Toyota Camry

The alternator in a Toyota Camry operates various accessories in the vehicle by transmitting an electrical current while the engine is running. The alternator assembly frequently includes a voltage regulator that maintains a constant voltage level. If your headlights become dimmer while driving or your battery keeps running down, you may need to replace the alternator.

Instructions

1

Determine which alternator your Toyota Camry needs. Be sure the new alternator is compatible with your Camry's engine. Models made from 1982 to 1986 have a 1.8 L or 2.0 L engine. Models built from 1987 to 1993 have a 1.8 L, 2.0 L or 2.5 L engine, and 1994 to 1998 models can be equipped with a 1.8 L, 2.0 L or 2.2 L engine.

2

Look at late models of the Toyota Camry. Models made from 1997 to 2001 can be equipped with a 2.2 L or 3.0 L engine, and 2002 to 2006 models can have a 2.4 L, 3.0 L or 3.3 L engine. The current generation of the Toyota Camry has been available since 2007 and is available with a 2.4 L or 3.5 L engine.

3

Disconnect the negative battery cable with a socket wrench. Remove the air intake and engine cover, if needed. Remove the bolts from the accessory drive belt assembly and take it off of its pulley.

4

Remove the electrical harness from the alternator and unfasten the alternator's terminal nut with a socket wrench so that you can disconnect the terminal wire from the alternator.

5

Take the pivot and lock bolts off the alternator with a socket wrench. You also need to remove an adjusting bolt if you have a 3.5 L engine. Remove the engine mounting stay, if necessary. Remove the alternator assembly.

6

Install the new alternator assembly by reversing the removal procedure. Tighten the pivot bolt to 40 foot-lb. and the lock bolt to 14 foot-lb. with a torque wrench. If you have a 3.5 L engine, the adjusting bolt will use a self-adjusting tensioner. Torque the M8 bolt for the drive belt assembly to 15 foot-lb. and the M10 bolt to 38 foot-lb.