How do you replace the alternator on a 2001 Hyundai Elantra?

Answer 1

You'll need a 10mm, 12mm & 13mm sockets and wrenches, and a small prybar.

1. Disconnect the cable from the negative terminal of the battery.
2. Raise the vehicle and support it securely on jack stands (not totally necessary)
3. Disconnect the wire harness from the alternator electrical connection. The wire harness is located below the first cable you disconnected.
4. loosen the alternator lower mounting bolt.Working from above,loosen the upper adjustment lockbolt,back off the adjustment bolt,swivel the alternator toward the engine and then release the drivebelt from the alternator pulley.
5. Unscrew and remove the alternator upper bolt. The bottom bolt just needs to be loose because the bracket on the engine is slotted and it will slide right out (this will save you time because that lower bolt is a PITA to get out). It will take a little effort, but pull the alternator towards the upper rad support (this is the direction of the slot).
6. The hard part is actually removing the alternator out of the engine area. It's a very tight fit. The best way to get it out through the top. Disconnect the connector going to the rad fan and remove the passenger side radiator fan (two 10mm bolts at the top). Place a piece of cardboard over the rad so you dont mess it up when you pull the alternator out (it is tight!).