Alternator malfunction?

DAMN FAMO

MEMBER
2009 MINI COOPER
1.4L
4 CYL
2WD
MANUAL
150,000 MILES

Alternator is malfunctioning. Purchased a new one. Mounts don't line up correctly. Purchased used one from salvage yard, installed it, performed correctly for approximately 9.5 months. As of now, it doesn't do anything but look good. Curious whether the housing can be exchanged so the mounts will line up properly. Both alternators are designed for the vehicle listed above.

1 Reply

KEN L

MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
47,512 POSTS

Yes, they have different versions of alternators for this car. Here is the correct part number, I would not try to change the case out because the inside parts can be different.

The 2009 MINI Cooper is equipped with a 1.6L engine for this model year, the alternator's part number varies based on the specific engine and alternator type:

120 Amp Alternator: Part Number 12-31-7-615-484
150 Amp Alternator: Part Number 12-31-7-613-445

So, you can see, there are two different alternators depending on amps. Here is the correct way to remove and replace the alternator in case you need it. Check out the images (below). Please let us know what happens.

Images (Click to make bigger)