Alternator Problem

marok · March 10, 2015

I've just bought a 2006 GS300 (private sale) and the alternator packed up on the way home.
I'm now having major problems sourcing a new one. The local Lexus main agent say they can get one in about 4 days but it would cost nearly £600!.
Everywhere else I try say that they are very hard to get hold of and would need to be imported from Germany or Holland and would be £300. Can anyone shed any light on why they are so difficult to get hold of?
Also:-
1. Does anyone know the part number of this item
2. Does anyone know of any good sources.

I'd be most grateful for any input on this.

PEPE · March 10, 2015

Hi Marock

My alternator also packed up last September. I have an LS400 unlike a GS300 but I had absolutely no difficulty in finding a genuine replacement from a Toyota dealer. I paid £219.00 plus £50.00 labour to my independent mechanic. After the dreaded VAT was paid the total outlay was £322.80. I experienced no delays whatsoever.

I hope this helps

Pepe

marok · March 10, 2015

Hi Pepe

Thanks for your input.

I've tried a couple of Toyota dealers in the area and they both say that they have no access to Lexus part numbers, so couldn't help.
I tried to get a part number from the local Lexus main agent but they say company policy forbids giving it.

So, round and round it goes.

cruisermark · March 10, 2015

marok try a different dealer - they are not the same

marok · March 11, 2015

cruisermark, I've now tried a few from different areas and they all come up with the same story.

The only Toyota dealer I could get to even check their database was one in Manchester, but he came up with "Lexus dealer only".

KayCee · March 11, 2015

Why dont you get a fitter to take it of it may just need a diode pack im sure an electritian could sort it

Just an idea

wont be no where near 600

KayCee · March 11, 2015

One here on fleabay

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/COMPLETE-NEW-RMF-ALTERNATOR-LEXUS-GS300-MK1-MK2-3-0-4-3-1993-2011-PETROL-A1923E-/141478553537?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_3&hash=item20f0c767c1

KayCee · March 12, 2015

i rechecked it looks like its for the mark 2 sorry but even with postage they cheaper from the states according to the ads

but i still think you could get it reconditioned

marok · March 12, 2015

Thanks for the replies, KayCee.
westlancsautoelectrics.co.uk/ are sending a carrier today, to pick up the alternator, and they say they will be able to identify what is required and get a new one imported from Holland (cost £300 inc VAT).
They also give an 18 month warranty (longer than the Lexus main dealer).
I spy light at the end of the tunnel.

KayCee · March 12, 2015

Ok marok

Good luck with the repair

by the way did you take it off yourself

marok · March 12, 2015

KayCee,no, it was removed by a local independant mechanic that I've been using for years, and now regard as a friend.

He said that it was by far the most difficult he's ever had to remove, due to the way the previous one had been fitted.

This last one had only lasted 1 year and 9 days (12,000 miles). I tell you, the previous owner really dodged a bullet with this going when it did, on the day I bought the car.

Connoisseur · March 12, 2015

A bit late maybe but this Lexus epc parts catalogue I find v. useful

http://lexus-europe.epc-data.com/

marok · March 12, 2015

Thanks Connoisseur, that's definitely been added to my Favourites list.

marok · March 16, 2015

Just an update; the company I mentioned earlier on the thread have diagnosed that the alternator clutch pulley and diode pack have failed on the unit.

They are going to do a full strip down, test and refurb for £265 with 18 month full warranty.