Alternator Motorcraft or OEM Mazda

I had to order a motorcraft alternator which hasn't given me any problems 6 months later.

As far as replacements I've had good luck with Rock Auto Sticking to the better brands like Motorcraft, AC Delco, Remy, and Bosch.

The OEM motorcraft alternator in my focus lasted 14 years and its replacement, a Remy, lasted 6. If the difference in price between OEM and aftermarket isn't too big, and you plan on keeping the car for more than 5 more yrs, I'd go with the OEM.

I was able to remove/replace the alternator on my Mazda CX-5 without removing any parts as has been mentioned.

RockAuto does offer Motorcraft alternators and back in 2021, I purchased one for my 2016 5.0 Lariat.

When it comes to an Alt i would spend the extra dough for an OEM model like Motorcraft. Nothing wrong with Rock Auto. I always buy there.

Go with an OEM unit by Motorcraft even if it's more expensive. Not somethin you want to do twice, learned this lesson with my Explorer. Threw on an aftermarket unit and it doesn't communicate with Ford's smart charging system correctly so it doesn't provide correct voltages as needed, therefore throwing a charging system warning constantly.

Just a shitty alternator

My 2020 Mazda cx30 has a bad alternator at 47,000 miles. Bought this car about a month and a half ago. Wondering if this is a typical thing for Mazdas alternators to go out fast.

Have been burned by aftermarket alternators. I'll spend the money for an OEM every time.