Saturn Alternator Replacement Radio Presets

SATURN
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ALLENGMBLS
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I had my alternator replaced recently - but when i picked up my car all the radio stations were still in place. Shouldn't my radio settings have been lost because in order to change the alternator the battery would need to be disconnected?

Are they trying to rip me off?
Mar 2, 2006 at 12:24 AM
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PEPPERMRJ
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 1,158 POSTS
[quote:b854499eaa="allengmbls"]I had my alternator replaced recently - but when i picked up my car all the radio stations were still in place. Shouldn't my radio settings have been lost because in order to change the alternator the battery would need to be disconnected?

Are they trying to rip me off?[/quote:b854499eaa]

No. The battery cable runs to the starter solenoid. Then a smaller wire runs from the starter to the alternator. Time is money for a pro so they don't take any extra steps. You could also just pull the 30 amp fuse (ignition 3) for the ignition circuit in the underhood fuse box. To be sure just take a look underneath for a shiny new alternator case.

Alternator failure is common on higher mileage saturns. The alt is located behind the engine and gets a lot of heat and no airflow. Had to have mine rebuilt at 115,000 miles.

Happy motoring. :)
Mar 3, 2006 at 7:58 AM
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Suggested Repair

No further repair is indicated. The battery does not always have to be disconnected to replace the alternator, so saved radio presets do not prove the work was skipped. Confirm the replacement by looking underneath for a shiny new alternator case.

Conversation Summary

The owner had a Saturn alternator replaced and suspected the shop did not do the work because the radio presets were still saved. The expert explained that disconnecting the battery is not always required, since the alternator is fed from the starter circuit and power can be isolated another way, such as pulling the ignition fuse. Alternator failure is common on higher-mileage Saturns because of heat and poor airflow. The suggested check is to look underneath for a new alternator case.

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