Alternator OEM FORD or Denso

The alternator is $700, with today\u2019s pricing that\u2019s totally fair. Just checked with local parts suppliers, for a 2.5L Mazda 6, for a quality Denso unit, it\u2019s fucking $350 before markup, and the cheaper options are still over $200! You have to remove the intake for this job which requires new gaskets as well, so for $700 you\u2019re getting a good deal.

Get the Denso from Rockauto, or NAPA should carry them local to you. It's a total PITA to get to, I don't care what kind of warranty autozone provides because it's not paying for my time.

I have yet to replace an alternator, but every recommendation I have seen is for Denso.

Go with a quality remanufactured unit like a Denso.

I bought one online to pick up at store and when I went to open the box something was scraping internally. No shipping damage or box damage. I bought a Denso for a different car (Toyota's OE) and I've had no issues with it. The only problem is it only carries a 1yr warranty.

Expect to shell out more $ for a Denso though if that's the route you go.

A reman Denso is about $100 more than other brands. But main thing is the labor cost. It is pretty hard to get to the Alternator for Odyssey. Saving some money with a cheaper brand has a greater risk to incur the labor cost again.

Solved both of those issues with a reman Denso. Just spend the money. One good alternator is cheaper than two crappy ones.

Parts store house brand parts are notoriously poor quality when it comes to electronic parts such as sensors, starters, alternators, etc.

I have a shitty looking Ford Focus that I maintain myself...The alternator failed and I couldn't be bothered doing the work myself so I took it to the local dealer.