1998 Cadillac STS alternator

1998 CADILLAC STS
129,000 MILES • V8 • FWD • AUTOMATIC
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JOQUINE12
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
Hi,
I have never had alternator problems, the car is 10 years old.
I heard a very loud noise when I turned the engine to start.
When told this the mechanic immediately said I need an $700 alternator, plus he said the voltage was at 11.

Now is it possible I need bearings because they are bad in the alternator instead of buying a brand new alternator.
Would it be cheaper to just replace the bearings in a car like this?

Thank you
DMR
Feb 15, 2010 at 11:26 AM
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FACTORYJACK
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 4,159 POSTS
I don't know if you can even get parts to service the alternator. This noise, was it just brief, or does it continue when the engine is running? If you have issues with low charge output, it would be more than bearings.
Feb 15, 2010 at 2:38 PM
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