How much does it cost to replace an 1996 Saab alternator?

Answer 1

The cost of replacing a part is a very general question that unless specified exactly is hard to answer. First, is who is replacing the part? Is the Dealer, an independent repair shop, a junkyard, the guy next door or you doing the replacement. These will all yield different prices. Not to mention that within all of these will be different labor rates and different part price mark ups.Second, what is the quality of the part? Is it a name brand, generic (white box, economy), OEM or used part? All of these will be different. Price will even differ between name brands, sometimes significantly. Thirdly, What is the warranty of the part and who is offering the warranty (the shop the parts house or the manufacturer). Limited Lifetime will have restrictions. Lifetime warranty isn�t always the best part either. Fourthly, Each vehicle can have different options that will affect how long it takes to change a part or make it call for a different part. Such as heavy duty cooling system, air conditioning, 4x4�s may have a steel plate that may need removal, Automatic or manual transmission, the list goes on. Fifthly, What additional parts will be required? Long life coolant or standard coolant, R12 or R134a air conditioning freon if it needs to be discharged or replaced? Additional adapters other fluids that may need to be added or changed? All of this will affect price. Sixthly, is the car a new car or an older car? Labor manuals or guides are set up based on a new car. Additional time may be required due to seized or rusted bolts, additional aftermarket accessories that were installed etc. So you can see where there is a great potential for variances. I offer this insight: If you take it to an independent garage like I always recommend, consider how long they have been in business. What is the quality of there work, are they honest? (see the FAQ how do you choose an auto repair shop for additional insights).

AnswerI had to replace the alternator in my 1996 Saab 900se two summers ago. I went to an electrical rebuilder (they rebuilt alternators) and purchased the part. I gave them the VIN to assure the proper part. I then took the part, in the box, to an independent mechanic and had it installed. The alternator ran app. $130.00 and the mechanic charged me $50.00 to install it. This was about 1/3 what the dealership quoted me. It took my time, gas and effort, but the savings was well worth it.

All in all, it probably cost me more to have the car towed and the rental car for the 2 days it took to get the part and get it installed. We had already replaced the battery that week, per the advice of another mechanic.