Replace a 2008 Chevrolet Malibu alternator with a 2.2L or 2.4L Ecotec engine

[@ChrisG-cy2om]

Thanks for the well done video. My power steering would go out occasionally. Dealership told me it was the alternator. They wanted $900. Nope. I paid the $75 service fee, bought the alternator for $215 and my boy and I did it with your help. Thanks!

[@ELijAHN0EL]

Hell yeah!! Me too , The hardest thing about it was the belt tensioner 🤦‍♂️🤦‍♂️🤦‍♂️

[@kendoalvarez5859]

when you put the belt back in place was that hell as well. iam having difficulty still getting the belt loose 😩

[@ChrisG-cy2om]

@@kendoalvarez5859 It was not easy. Better with 2 people I think.

[@doodoomcdoo3994]

That tensioner was far the worst I have ever seen.

[@marcroche9324]

Very clear and concise video. Yours is the best one I found. you convinced me that I could do it myself in my driveway.

[@lastmoto777]

Glad the video was helpful. I wish you the best of luck with it.

[@Taliswynd]

Thanks for the video! I had my alternator tested at auto zone 3 times on the machine… the test said it was good, but all indications on the car said otherwise. I could charge the battery and the car would drive for a while and the battery would die again. Checked all wiring and voltages and continuity and so on…. Battery was fine. Alternator was indeed bad. Would be nice for the information about testing the original alternator to be out there and easier to find! You saved me a TON of additional headache!!!

[@wheelchairwarrior72]

I have to say out of every single video I’ve watched on this, yours is by far the best explanation I’ve seen. Thanks a lot for the great video.

[@lastmoto777]

Thanks for the kind words and you are welcome. I am glad the video was helpful. Best of luck with it.

[@zaconeal1749]

@@lastmoto777 a000a1qqq%%

[@zaconeal1749]

/ pp

[@doodoomcdoo3994]

Just finished the job. Everything worked like a charm. That tensioner pulley was something else. Thank you much. 👍

[@uoyebut2151]

Thank you. I have an 09 G6 2.4L and there are no vids what so ever about this. Same engine same alternator. Thank you again

[@lastmoto777]

You're welcome! I am glad the video was helpful.

[@josepharce5218]

Appreciate the video man! Always helps to have a visual aid.

[@jerryreed5098]

So informative and so concise. Thanks much.

[@OnlineAutoRepairVideos]

Great video and instructions, THANKS!

[@lastmoto777]

I am glad the video was helpful. Best of luck with it.

[@frankspicci9994]

Great and Very Helpful Video. Now I'm heading out to try to change mine. Wish me Luck!!

[@amghalofreak]

Only video I could find and it's so informative. Thanks so much

[@lastmoto777]

Glad it was helpful! Best of luck with it.

[@mikedee3870]

Good video, I learned alot just by watching thanks

[@MrJayblack69]

Awesome Video...I had it out and a new one back in within a hour

[@lastmoto777]

Good to hear! Thanks for the feedback and for watching the video !

[@csdimitris]

Thanks for the excellent video.

[@danshroyer8932]

Thanks for the professional video

[@adolfocerezomillan9409]

Thanks this video was very helpful and I can change myself this alternator

[@jessikahenry854]

What tool do I need to loosen the tensioner pulley on a 2005 Chevy Malibu?

[@arthurr.borquez7275]

Good job 👍, thanks teamsters. I noticed your shirt sleeve.👍🐴🔆🐴

[@lastmoto777]

Thanks and glad the video was helpful.

[@baldeagleApiaries]

Have you had a chance to do a Hybrid alternator?

[@TheLenaweeTrekker]

Thanks for the video. It answers all my questions.

[@ozman6602]

Did you drain the radiator you didn't lose any coolant ?

[@DertDogg]

you do not have to take off the upper radiator hose or drain the coolant to replace the alternator. once you have the alternator loose take off the positive terminal grab the upper radiator hose with your left hand and pull it to the passenger side of the vehicle remove the alternator on the right side of the hose. I can understand how it would seemingly be easier to take the alternator out of the engine compartment with upper radiator hose out of the way. however you are creating more work and expense for yourself in draining the coolant and then having to put new coolant back in. now I am a mechanic and I work on cars everyday but I was able to change the alternator in my 2010 Malibu in about 45 minutes without removing upper radiator hose. otherwise very detailed video I'm sure you've helped a lot of people.

[@fishbabysquirl]

How in the world did you get to the tension pulley? I have a 2010 and can't even get the ratchet down there

[@chipete1]

Do you think it's necessary to go underneath the vehicle to align the belt?

[@kilcitykitty]

I have an issue, you say theres a hole where the 3.8 should fit but i cant find it

[@lastmoto777]

You just have to reach down and feel it with your fingertips. It will be a square hole. You can also put a wrench on your pulley bolt and do it that way . If it will fit. as you can see its pretty tight down there. Best of luck with it. When you are done just make sure the belt is on all the pulleys correctly.

[@kilcitykitty]

@@lastmoto777 thank you that helps alot more

[@iflex1963]

Thanks for the video. You could add 08 Saturn Aura to your title for more hits. It is the exact same setup and engine. One thing that could help improve video is showing a stock pic of the tensioner arm to illustrate where the 3/8" square hole is located and how it is positioned in the arm. It's near impossible to see, but I was able to use my thin smartphone to snap a pic as well as looking at new tensioners online. I ended up using a 3/4" box end wrench over top the handle of my ratchet for more leverage. Also when reinstalling belt a second set of hands makes it a whole lot easier. I loosened panel in wheelwell and kept belt on crank pulley while helper cranked on tensioner and threaded belt on alternator and a.c. from top position.

[@ashleythibodeaux1773]

Is this alternator from this video considered a side plug or back plug on the alternator to take it off?

[@lastmoto777]

I am not sure. I would just take a picture of your current alternator and make sure it matches up with whatever you buy. That's what I did. Best of luck with it.

[@ronaldcaldwell5722]

No special tools required with this one not on that big heavy spring tensioner use you a 5 inch C clamp and put the screw up top we can handle it the only thing difference is when you use the 15 mm on the second tensioner on a hybrid for a Malibu especially hybrid you go to the bottom of the motor and and slipped a belt on at the crank if you have any questions you can contact C&K Automotive in Norman Oklahoma

[@Silkk32483]

What size socket for the (2) bolts and (1) nut mounting the alternator? That was never mentioned :(

[@lastmoto777]

I don't remember. Looks like a 12, 13 or 14mm. good luck with it.

[@Silkk32483]

+lastmoto777 no problem, thanks for the fast response.

[@jdtuned]

Thank you for this video your saving me a couple hundred for sure!

[@yoyocooldude1]

Where does the green wire connect to the car 5:40?

[@lastmoto777]

It connects to the threaded stud on the back side of the alternator. That is where the power goes out so make sure to put the insulator boot back on. Best of luck with it.

[@yoyocooldude1]

It was connected to the alternator already. I guess it from the alternator with the rubber boot to the starter. I must of forgot to reconnect this when replacing the starter ended up taking it to a mechanic and paying more for inspection and labor

[@mdp36]

Listed every step except what sized sockets you need to remove alternator

[@StlMar314]

Go from.the bottom.. Drop the Compressor and it come straight out.. That way you save money on Coolant

[@brianpowell7291]

Thank you. Plenty of info. I had a special tool made to replace my serpentine belt so this was easy. I cut a straight belt tool and had a friend weld it at just the right angle.

[@lastmoto777]

Great idea for the tool !! Glad the video was helpful.

[@elos5102]

Will this work with a 2004 chevy malibu classic 2.2 ecotac

[@lastmoto777]

If the alternator is in the same spot then yes it should. The 2.2 and 2.4 are almost identical.Best of luck with it.

[@davismarvin407]

How is you loosen the tension with the bolt or in the Square whole insert ??

[@lastmoto777]

Either will work . I used the 3/8 inch hole.

[@dannysautorepair]

Great video sir.

[@lastmoto777]

Thank you kindly

[@rynow1992]

Will this work on a 2013 malibu with the ecotec. I cant find a vehicle specific video anywhere

[@lastmoto777]

I believe so. This will be the same for all the ecotec 4 cylinders.Best of luck with it !

[@rynow1992]

@@lastmoto777 my alternator is located on the left rear lower side of the engine.

[@lastmoto777]

That is definately different than mine. I have not done one in that configuration. I am not going to be much help with your 2013. Although the procedure would be the same. Remove the belt. Remove the wires and plugs from the alternator, and unbolt it from the engine. I wish I could be a little more helpful, but best of luck with it.

[@rynow1992]

@@lastmoto777 your video definitely helped with my how to process so thank you. Ill let ya know when I fix it how it went. Thank you for the replies!

[@darkwolf06vheb5]

My 08 Malibu is having intermittent electrical issues. I'm wondering if my battery or alternator is bad. Curious as to what your symptoms were prior to replacing. Took my Malibu to Auto Zone and Orielys and stupid GM terminals would not allow testers to clamp on....

[@lastmoto777]

Its not the right way to do it .but I was reading the voltage at the battery cables,and found that when I would first start it, all the readings were normal. After about 10 min. or so the charging voltage would steadily decline to the low 11s. That's not good. Unless you have an ltz your alternator is making just enough juice to run your Malibu ! The car had electrical systems struggling including power steering and just generally didn't run well. We replaced the battery and put a more powerful alternator in it and the difference was night and day. It was like the car was new again !!!! Huge Difference....Everything worked better! Hope this Helps.

[@HankGoodness]

Excellent video, Thanks! What brand alternator did you use in video? New or Reman? Is it still holding up?

[@lastmoto777]

Thank you and I use rockauto.com . REMY 12856 {#15828450, 2650532A, FG12S010} Premium Remanufactured Info 130 Amps. This is the one I used. There is also a AC Delco 130amp available as well. A little more expensive though. You will have to mail back the old alternator to get your core charge refunded. Best of luck with it.

[@carlosvaldez319]

Where does the alternator ground cable go?

[@lastmoto777]

Your positive ( with the rubber boot) connects to the stud on the underside of the alternator, and the plug just plugs in. The alternator is grounded to the engine block just by being bolted to the block. Hope that helps. Best of luck with it.

[@carlosvaldez319]

@@lastmoto777 thank you, I'm gonna check it out this upcoming Monday since I ordered a new alternator.

[@6058jeremysmith]

Brilliant video thank you so much.. Total time to complete this job ??

[@zenitram102]

No torque wrench needed. I pulled up the tensioner with my hand and my son slipped the belt off’

[@DanielLopez-qs6be]

Comment of the fukn year man

[@lorenzovega6620]

I have a parts car a 2006 malibu v6 and I also have a 2009 malibu with the 2.4 Will any parts swap over?

[@craigmatern3258]

How do you know when your alternator is bad when you take it off charging your battery and you take it off to the engine die

[@juliangibbs4366]

so is the video for the monte carlo the same information as a malabu?

[@Jordan-lo1zb]

Hello lastmoto777 I am having a minor setback on my vehicle. It's a 2002 Pontiac Grand Am 2.2L Ecotec 4 Cyl Engine. I swapped out the engine with a new 2.2L Ecotec. But the wiring is the problem. I bolted on two alternators and they never worked. So it must be the wiring. And there is what looks to be a black ground wire with a small black box attached to it, and i'm wondering if that connects to the 13mm nut on the alternator itself. Because right now it's connected to the engine block and the cars electrical system is not getting power. The radio does not turn on. So the Grand Am is just relying on the Battery itself for power. Which kills the battery obviously. So my question is, what's the problem here. Thanks in advance.

[@lastmoto777]

Did you plug the black plug back onto the alternator before installing the alternator? If so maybe you can test the alternator to see if the battery is receiving any charge at all.Even a new alternator can have a bad voltage regulator at times.Not likely , but I have had that happen before.Unfortunately I dont know what the black wire is that you found. Black is usually a ground, but not always.Good luck with it.

[@damonwilliamson186]

Thank You

[@davismarvin407]

Every video I see you do not show me how to lose the tension on the belt

[@mistarichdontplay4795]

Thanks for the video good sir 👍 I just subscribed and smashed bell 🔔 Thanks

[@IsaiahHewlett]

Socket sizes?

[@luckyirishm]

O'Reily's says I need a new alternator because it's charging at 13.5 volts and they say it needs to be at least 14 volts.

[@lastmoto777]

Yeah....I think 14 is better but I didnt replace mine until it was obvious the battery just wasn't getting charged anymore.It would start at like 13.5 then slowly drop into the 11s like 10 minutes later. Hope this helps.

[@bryandonoghue1454]

Ahoy! My battery light came on yesterday and after 30 minutes of driving and 10 minutes idling, my abs and parking brake lights came on, power steering cut out. So I changed the alternator today thanks to your video, let it idle for about 30 minutes then drove it for an hour and it seems fine but the battery light is still on. I disconnected the negative with the car running to check the alternator and the car stayed running. Any ideas on the battery light? Thanks a bunch

[@MyNameIsNotNick]

I think you have to check with the scan tool

[@zagrix]

would you recommend changing it anyways even if its working?

[@lastmoto777]

I would probably wait until it starts to be problematic. Good luck with it.

[@zagrix]

was just checking one out for sale, it was in good condition. couldn't check the transmission fluid cuz there was no dipstick. Also, checked the oil cap and there was a bunch of sludge build up.. no thanks on that. no wonder it was only 6,000 and 48k miles

[@lastmoto777]

lol ..yeah....I think maybe you should pass on that one !

[@fisherofmen9941]

Would this procedure work for a 2012 malibu LT?

[@lastmoto777]

This would work on any GM 2008-2013 ecotec 4 cylinder. So yes if you have a 4 cylinder in your Malibu it will be exactly the same. Good luck with it.

[@mikehaven813]

@@lastmoto777 does this work 4 a 2014 Malibu 2.5

[@marissagigliotti2663]

is this the same as you would do for the classic edition?

[@lastmoto777]

If the classic has a ecotec engine then yes. Good luck with it.

[@jonathanramirez-kk1ku]

Can you do a video on coolant flush on malibu

[@dimitrifortner5503]

What size socket did you use for the tensioner pulley to get the belt off?

[@RolladaddyCustoms]

What alternator did you use to get a 130 amps

[@lastmoto777]

Rock auto carries one remanufactured by REMY. It is 130amps wich is pretty much the most juice you can get for the Malibu. here's a link. www.rockauto.com/en/catalog/chevrolet,2008,malibu,2.2l+l4,1441026,electrical,alternator+/+generator,2412

[@lastmoto777]

The link is for an 08 2.4 ecotec. Malibu

[@josepharchuleta4605]

where did you buy the alternator

[@lastmoto777]

I am pretty sure I bought that one from partsgeek.com If you need one immediately you may just have to go to the parts store. Parts geek takes about a week.

[@robertm6312]

Yeah I can not get a 3/8 wrench on my tension belt. Just not enough room for the ol hands

[@lifewasgiventous1614]

2:10

[@elleo380]

Bro the hardest part to me is to put the belt on and you didn’t show that💀💀💀💀💀💀💀💀💀💀💀

[@georgewakzvevo768]

I just bought my first car Chevrolet Malibu 2010 and the car won't start and I changed the battery the car started and I drove it for an hour and packed it and tried to start it back on and I didn't start I don't knw if the problem is frm the alternator or the car is not gud pls help cuz all mechanic keep giving me their own testimony that the car is bad

[@lastmoto777]

It could be your alternator. If it won't start and it turns over slowly like the battery is dead it may not be getting charged. If you jump it and get to an auto parts store they will test your alternator for free and let you know if it's doing the job or not. It's very possible that's what it is.good luck with it.

[@stoneybee23]

nice video

[@Ron-h4l]

How many miles on Malibu

[@lastmoto777]

Just shy of 100,000 miles. Its been a week and the Malibu actually runs so much better now. More power. Even the door locks work better!

[@francopetrey2720]

Thanks for the video! Good stuff. Had a question though. Have a car with the exact same engine. However when i was removing the alternator, I noticed "the hot lead" or the 2nd wire attachment with the boot was not attached to the car. It was attached to the alternator but not to the car. Is there any way you can tell me where it is supposed to be attached at in the car? I would appreciate the help. Thanks

[@bean2077]

I just got the same issue, any luck with further information??

[@craigmatern3258]

When you alternators bad and you're charging your battery when you take the charger off to the car die

[@OramiIT]

I just replaced my starter and then the battery died when I was driving. I was told the alternator likely died because of the new starter and battery is this a common thing? Chevy Malibu 2007 ecotec 2.2L I believe. (thought it might be the battery causing the issue originally and it wasn't - new starter fixed it) on my way home I lost all power now I am in the troubleshooting stages. Any help would be appreciated.

[@lastmoto777]

I would have your battery and alternator tested before you start buying parts. A parts store will test them for free. If you lost ALL power its probably the battery , cables or connections. Thats a good place to start. Good luck with it. PS I don't think a new starter is the problem.

[@letsargybargy5867]

Same thing happened to me had my starter changed literally 2 days later lost all power and they said my alternator went out seems fishy but I’m stuck like chuck

[@ntaylor3954]

Did it end up being the alternator? Same circumstances on an 09 for me

[@OramiIT]

@@ntaylor3954 ended up being a wiring issue with the starter for me…

[@orpheussutton3883]

Very good 👍 video