e46 M3 alternator

[Jake.]

Seems like the alternator on my 53 plate e46 M3 coupe had died.

I got the red battery warning light on the dash the other night and then today (first time I've driven the car since the warning light came on) the car has died with a flat battery.

After the warning light came on, but before the battery went flat, I checked it with a voltmeter and it was show 12v regardless of whether the engine was running or not - that indicates the alternator, right?

Should I get a genuine new one from BMW (£489) or would a reconditioned one, eg http://tinyurl.com/dendgj for £135 probably be ok?

Also, anyone know if these are reasonably straightforward to fit for a normal standard home mechanic?

Thanks.

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Jake

[Vixpy1]

I got one for the M5 from a place in Slough, recon with 1 year warranty, £200

[Toilet Duck]

Jake. said:

Should I get a genuine new one from BMW (£489) or would a reconditioned one, eg http://tinyurl.com/dendgj for £135 probably be ok?

Jake

The bulk of that £489 is made up of //M tax. There is no way an alternator should cost that much, its disgusting. I would go for a warranted recon alternator or try and source a pattern part.