How To Change An Alternator On A 2009 Toyota Corolla

Estimated cost to replace the alternator in a Toyota Corolla. Alternator replacement for a Toyota Corolla typically costs between $390 and $477. Between $68 and $86 is the expected range for labor costs, while $322 to $391 is the range for part costs.

What issues are there with the 2009 Toyota Corolla?

The 2009 Toyota Corolla has more difficulties than any previous year, and many of them are major mechanical ones. The 2011 model receives significant upgrades, making the $1,800 price difference worthwhile.

Owners start mentioning engine issues, such as excessive oil use and noise from the engine, at about 100,000 miles. Toyota engines typically use more oil than those in other vehicles, but the 2009 Corolla has an issue with the piston rings, which exacerbates the issue. Regular oil checks are crucial since low oil levels can lead to engine breakdowns, which can cost over $4,000 to repair.

The 2009 model experiences frequent water pump breakdowns at about 60,000 miles. There is a risk of overheating when the water pump, which circulates coolant through the engine, fails. Depending on local labor costs, replacing the water pump will cost roughly $850.

Another frequent problem is paint flaws, which usually manifest after five years. When the curing process is unsuccessful or the paint is overexposed to sunshine, problems frequently arise. The only option, which will cost more than $800 per panel, is to repaint the damaged panels.

Compared to other compact automobiles from the same year, there are 13 recalls. The items being recalled are air bags, power window switches, load-carrying labels, brake vacuum ports, and seat heater wiring. The most dangerous pedal issues are those that could result in unexpected acceleration.

Dim or Overly Bright Lights

Your electronic gadgets receive erratic voltage when an alternator starts to fail. This typically manifests as under- or over-performing equipment, such as headlights that are either too dim or excessively bright. Additionally, you can see lights that erratically switch from bright to low and vice versa.

Dead Battery

A dead battery may occasionally just be a dead battery. After a few years of use, it has either reached the end of its lifespan or you may have unintentionally kept the headlights on all night. A dead battery may occasionally indicate a problem with your alternator, though.

When the engine is operating, a defective alternator won’t adequately charge the battery, resulting in a quicker than usual discharge of the charge. Jumpstarting the vehicle is one approach to determine if the problem is with the battery or alternator. If your car runs after being jumpstarted, your battery may need to be replaced shortly. If the car dies again soon after being jumpstarted, it may indicate that your alternator isn’t providing enough power to the battery.

Slow or Malfunctioning Accessories

Accessories that operate slowly or not at all are frequently a sign that your alternator isn’t providing enough power to your car’s electronics. You might have an alternator issue if you notice that your windows roll up or down more slowly than usual, if your seat warmers seem “off,” or even if your speedometer and other instruments start acting strangely.

If the alternator isn’t producing enough electricity, many modern cars feature a priority list of equipment that informs the onboard computer where to cut power first. In this manner, if your alternator fails while you’re on the road, your radio or other unnecessary equipment will continue to function before your headlights.

Trouble Starting or Frequent Stalling

As was already noted, if your engine is difficult to start, your alternator may not be charging the battery. As a result, when you turn the key in the ignition, all you’ll hear is a clicking noise rather than your engine’s purring sound.

On the other hand, if your car repeatedly stalls out while you’re driving, it can mean that the alternator isn’t supplying the spark plugs with enough power to keep the engine running.

Growling or Whining Noises

There are many strange noises that cars make; some are harmless, while others may be signs of major technical issues. You should have your alternator checked properly by a professional right away if you ever hear growling or whining sounds coming from underneath the hood.

When the belt that rotates the alternator pulley falls out of alignment or rubs against the pulley’s side, a growling or whining sound is produced. If the bearings that spin the rotor shaft are failing, you can also hear this noise.

Smell of Burning Rubber or Wires

A burning rubber or wire stench could be a sign that your alternator’s components are beginning to wear out. The drive belt for the alternator may eventually wear down and give off a terrible burning rubber odor due to the constant tension and friction it experiences as well as its proximity to the hot engine.

Similar to an electrical fire, your alternator may smell burning if it is overworked or if it has frayed or damaged wiring. Wires in an overworked alternator heat up dangerously as a result of trying to force too much energy through them. In addition to creating resistance to the passage of power, damaged wires often heat up and smell bad.

Battery Warning Light on Dash

When the battery warning light appears on the dashboard, it’s frequently believed to indicate a problem with the battery. The battery warning light, however, suggests that there might be an issue with your car’s larger electrical system, which includes the alternator.

The normal operating voltage for alternators is between 13 and 14.5 volts. The battery warning light on your dash may come on if your alternator is malfunctioning because its voltage may fall below its maximum level. Similarly, depending on how much strain the alternator is under, the battery light may also come on if the alternator is operating above its voltage limit.

The alternator may fluctuate in and out of its intended voltage capacity depending on the electrical demand from your car’s accessories (headlights, wipers, radio, etc.), which might cause the battery warning light to flash on and off. Although it can seem like a minor inconvenience, it’s preferable to have your car inspected for alternators than to become stranded on the side of the road.

Does it make sense to replace an alternator?

If the alternator is broken, it is typically wiser to replace it totally. Even though they can be expensive, new ones are generally preferable than remanufactured or rebuilt alternatives. Since the mechanical components have a lot of miles on them, they most likely won’t last as long as a new one.

Check for a remanufactured or rebuilt alternator at your neighborhood auto parts store if you can’t afford a new one. If a mechanic is handling the installation, be sure they provide you a brand-new alternator rather than trying to save money by using a refurbished or rebuilt one.

A high-output alternator, which is more expensive, may be required for some vehicles with increased electrical needs, such as ambulances or vehicles with sizable, power-hungry sound systems.

Depending on the type of car, the cost of the parts varies widely, but it often falls between $150 and $300. An OEM alternator for a more recent Mercedes or Audi can easily cost close to $1,000 as more costly automobiles would typically demand more expensive parts.

Since certain alternators are simpler to access and require less time to work on, labor expenses also vary, but budget between $200 and $600 for the work.

Expect to shell out anything from $350 to $900 in total for an alternator replacement. In most circumstances, it will be less expensive to have an independent mechanic handle the work than a dealership.

What equipment will I need to replace an alternator?

You’ll require the following equipment in addition to a replacement alternator:

  • Ratchets, sockets, and wrenches are examples of hand tools.
  • belt tensioning device
  • safety equipment and gloves.
  • If necessary, a memory protector or battery tender.
  • If necessary, use a jack, jack stands, and wheel chocks.

I want to replace my alternator.

From A to B: How to Replace an Alternator Serpentine belt should be loosened and removed. Remove the connectors or electrical harness. Remove the alternator by loosening it. Make sure the new alternator fits and is in line with the bolt holes before installing it.

Which Toyota Corolla models should you stay away from?

Excessive oil consumption in the engine has been one of the Toyota Corolla’s most frequently encountered issues over its lifetime. Although it did occur in other years like 2014, these model years saw a higher prevalence of it: 2000, 2001, 2002, and 2009. The 2003 and 2009 models, however, were plagued by transmission issues. Particularly in 2009, cooling issues as a result of water pump failure were frequently reported. These model years had more minor difficulties than others, like body/paint and interior accent problems.

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Is a 2009 Toyota Corolla subject to any recalls?

In the event of an inflator explosion, the driver or other passengers may be seriously hurt or killed when sharp metal shards strike them.

Toyota will inform Lexus, Scion, and Toyota owners. The Pontiac owners will hear from General Motors. Dealers may replace the air bag assembly or the front passenger air bag inflator, depending on the model of the vehicle. The start of the recall is anticipated for January 24, 2018. Owners can get in touch with Pontiac or Toyota customer assistance at 1-800-762-2737 or 1-800-331-4331, respectively. “Zone A” is the Toyota recall number. “Zone A” Toyota: G0P, “Zone B” Lexus: GLG, “Zone C” Toyota: H0A, and Lexus: HLA.

Air bags

Certain 2012 Toyota 4Runner, Corolla, Corolla Matrix, Sienna, Yaris, Scion xB, Lexus ES350, GX460, IS-F, IS250, IS350, IS250C, IS350C, and Lexus LFA vehicles are being recalled by Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota). These vehicles were sold or ever registered in Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto In addition, unless specifically mentioned above in “Zone A,” Toyota is recalling specific 2009 Toyota Corolla, Corolla Matrix, Yaris, Yaris HB, Scion xB, Pontiac Vibe, Lexus, ES350, IS250, IS350, and IS-F vehicles that were initially sold or ever registered in Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Furthermore, unless specified in “…

In the event of an inflator rupture, metal pieces might strike the car’s occupants and cause severe harm or even death.

Toyota will inform Lexus, Scion, and Toyota owners. The Pontiac owners will hear from General Motors. Dealers will replace either the air bag assembly or the passenger frontal air bag inflator for free, depending on the model. Beginning on January 30, 2017, interim letters warning owners that parts are still unavailable are anticipated. Owners will be informed again when replacement components are accessible. Owners can get in touch with Pontiac or Toyota customer assistance at 1-800-762-2737 or 1-800-331-4331, respectively. Toyota’s numbers for this campaign’s interim notification are G1P for Toyota Zone A, G1R for Toyota Zone B, H1A for Toyota Zone C, G2G for Lexus Zone A, G2H for Lexus Zone B, and H2A for Toyota Zone C. (Lexus Zone C). Toyota’s numbers for the campaign’s final fix are G0P for Toyota Zone A, G0R for Toyota Zone B, H0A for Toyota Zone C, GLG for Lexus Zone A, GLH for Lexus Zone B, and HLA for Toyota Zone C. (Lexus Zone C).

Seats

Some items are being recalled by Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET). 4Runner, Highlander, Sequoia, and Sienna from 2005 to 2011, Avalon and Tundra from 2005 until 2010, Vehicles having aftermarket accessory seat heaters with a copper strand heating element include the 2006-2008 Camry Solara, 2006-2010 Highlander hybrid, 2006-2011 Rav4 and Tacoma, 2007-2010 FJ Cruiser, 2010-2012 Prius, 1988-1990 and 2005-2010 Camry, and 1989 and 2009-2010 Corolla. When the seat cushion is crushed, the electrical wiring in the seat heaters may be harmed.

The copper strand heating element could short circuit if damaged, raising the possibility of a fire.

Dealers will disconnect the seat heaters for free and reimburse the cost of the seat heater attachment after SET notifies owners and dealers. A recall was initiated on July 14, 2016. Owners can call 1-866-405-4226 to speak with SET customer care. SET16B is the SET number for this recall.

Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling some vehicles from the model years 2008 to 2011 Scion xB and Lexus IS F, 2009 to 2011 Toyota Corolla and Corolla Matrix, 2006 to 2011 Toyota Yaris, Lexus IS250, and Lexus IS350, 2010 to 2011 Toyota 4Runner, Lexus IS250C, Lexus IS350C, and Lexus GX460, 2011 Sienna, 2007 to 2011 Lexus ES350, and In addition, Toyota is recalling some model-year 2008 Scion xB and Lexus IS F, 2007-2008 Toyota Yaris, 2006-2008 Lexus IS250 and Lexus IS350, and 2007-2008 Lexus ES350 vehicles, unless they are already listed in “Zone A” above. These vehicles were first sold, or ever registered, in Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, and Arizona.

Toyota will inform Lexus and Toyota owners. The Pontiac owners will hear from General Motors. Dealers will replace either the air bag assembly or the passenger frontal air bag inflator for free, depending on the model. Owners received a temporary notice in the mail on July 6, 2016. The toyota customer support number is 1-800-331-4331. For this campaign, Toyota’s numbers for interim notification are G1P (Toyota Zone A), G1R (Toyota Zone B), G2G (Lexus Zone A), and G2H (Toyota Zone H). Toyota’s numbers are G0P (Toyota Zone A), G0R (Toyota Zone B), GLG (Lexus Zone A), and GLH for the campaign’s final cure.

Visibility

Toyota Motor Company (Toyota) is recalling a number of vehicles from the 2009 to 2011 model years, including the Tundra, Sequoia, Corolla, Corolla Matrix, and Scion xB; the Highlander and Highlander Hybrid; the 2007 and 2009 Camrys; the 2006 to 2011 RAV4s; the 2006 to 2010 Yaris; and the 2009 to 2010 Scion xD and Pontiac Vibe. The sliding electrical contacts on the Power Window Master Switch (PWMS) may have received uneven amounts of grease lubricant during production.

Debris and moisture that enter the switch may cause a short circuit, the switch assembly may overheat and melt, raising the risk of a fire. If the sliding electrical contacts are not protected by lubrication.

Owners will be notified by Toyota, and dealers will inspect the switch and lubricate it if nothing unusual is discovered. The PWMS circuit board will be changed without charge if an anomaly is discovered. The start of the recall is anticipated for December 20, 2015. The toyota customer support number is 1-800-331-4331. Toyota’s recall reference number is C0M.

Toyota is recalling a selection of vehicles from the following model years: 20062008 RAV4, 20062010 Yaris, 20082010 Highlander, 20092010 Tacoma, Corolla, Corolla Matrix, and Pontiac Vibe from General Motors. In the affected vehicles, the spiral cable assembly in the steering column assembly houses electrical connections to the driver’s airbag module and a Flexible Flat Cable (FFC). The FFC may sustain damage when the steering wheel is turned because of the retainer’s design and placement.

The driver’s air bag module may lose communication, deactivating the air bag, if the FFC is broken. The danger of injury to the driver increases if the driver’s air bag does not deploy in a collision where deployment is usually required.

Owners of Toyota vehicles will receive notice from Toyota, and Pontiac Vibe owners will receive notice from General Motors. Toyota will notify owners of the recall with an interim letter in late April 2014, and will send owners a second letter as soon as repair components are available. The Pontiac Vibe owners have not yet received a communication timetable from General Motors. Dealers will replace the spiral cable assembly at no cost as soon as the replacement parts are available. Toyota can be reached at 1-800-331-4331. General Motors can be reached by owners at 1-800-762-2737.

Visibility: Power window devices and controls

Certain Camry, Camry Hybrid, RAV4, Corolla, Corolla Matrix, Tundra, Sequoia, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, Yaris, Scion xB, Scion xD, and Pontiac Vibe vehicles from the model years 2007 to 2009 are being recalled by Toyota. Some of these vehicles’ power window master switch assemblies were constructed utilizing a less exact method for lubricating the switch assemblies’ interior parts. The power window master switch assemblies may malfunction and overheat as a result of irregularities in this lubricating procedure.

Toyota will inform the owners, and dealers will inspect the switch and, at no additional cost, either replace any switches that have been harmed by the problem or apply a special lubricant that prevents heat buildup. If a switch malfunctions, Toyota owners should seek professional assistance instead by calling their local Toyota dealer or the Toyota Customer Experience Center at 1-800-331-4331. Owners of Pontiac Vibes who are subject to this recall will be contacted by General Motors, and GM dealers will examine and repair switches as necessary. Call Pontiac Customer Care at 1-800-762-2737 to speak with one of these owners.

Equipment: Other: Labels

FOR FAILING TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 110, “TIRE SELECTION AND RIMS,” GULF STATES TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2005-2010 VEHICLES. THESE VEHICLES WERE SOLD WITHOUT THE REQUISITE LOAD CARRYING CAPACITY MODIFICATION LABELS BETWEEN SEPTEMBER 1, 2005 AND JUNE 2, 2008.

The certification label, the tire and loading information label, and the load carrying capacity modification (addendum) label will all be replaced by dealers at no cost to the customer. THE OWNER’S MANUAL WILL ALSO BE CORRECTED BY DEALERS. It is anticipated that the safety recall would start in May 2010. GULF STATES TOYOTA CAN BE CONTACTED BY OWNERS AT 713-580-3300.

CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2006-2009 SIENNA PASSENGER VEHICLES FROM SOUTHEAST TOYOTA ARE BEING RECALLED DUE TO THEIR INCOMPLETENESS WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 110, “TIRE SELECTION AND RIMS.” THESE VEHICLES WERE SOLD WITHOUT THE REQUISITE LOAD CARRYING CAPACITY MODIFICATION LABELS BETWEEN SEPTEMBER 1, 2005 AND JUNE 2, 2008.

THE LOAD CARRYING CAPACITY MODIFICATION (ADDENDUM) LABEL WILL BE REPLACED FREE OF CHARGE BY DEALERS. The recall is anticipated to start in May 2010. SOUTHEAST TOYOTA CAN BE CONTACTED BY OWNERS AT 1-954-420-2000.