Alternator OEM KIA or OEM Honda

In my experience, it’s most likely the alternator, I’ve replaced so many I’ve lost count.

My local mechanic put a new alternator in my older Accord late last year. It was around $550, including a new serpentine belt.

Honda OEM alternator

The alternator on my 2019 Forte failed.

I bought a used one with 20k miles on it, an new idler and tensioner pulley for around $350. Installed it all myself.

From my experience with replacing Honda alternators, I always go OEM.

You need one specifically made for your vehicle, but you can shop around on different sites, for different brands to find one that meets your budget. I prefer ones from the OEM (ie Honda), Bosch, or Denso.

Between the two that I've owned, I have way over 250k miles in 'em and they are awesome vehicles. Maintenance has been very reasonable although we just had to put a new alternator in the one we have now.

I would suggest the genuine Kia one, or a professional grade like NAPA's top line or an AC-Delco. I would avoid anything that says "USA Industries" or "Duralast" on it, based on personal experience. In our shop we have had nearly 100% failure rates with those brands.